Perched on a stunning hillside overlooking the Bras d’Or Lake in Iona, Baile nan Gàidheal / Highland Village is Cape Breton’s immersive window into Nova Scotia’s vibrant Scottish Gaelic heritage. This outdoor living history museum and Gaelic folklife centre spans 43 acres of breathtaking scenery, dotted with historic buildings brought to life by costumed animators who share stories, music, and traditions in an engaging, hands-on way. Wander from a Hebridean-style blackhouse to charming farmhouses, a 19th-century church, mills, and a traditional forge as you follow the journey of Gaelic settlers from the Old Country to their new Cape Breton home. With live demonstrations, farm animals, seasonal events, and unforgettable lake views, Highland Village offers an inspiring, family-friendly experience that feels less like a museum visit and more like stepping into another time.