This pretty town is on the shore of Bras d’Or Lakes in the middle of Cape Breton. The name comes from either the Mi’kmaq word abadak which means “place with an island near”,
which refers to Kidston’s in Baddeck Harbour, or the Mi’kmaq word petecook which means “lying on the backward turn,” referring to the hooked entrance to the Baddeck River.
In the early years, “Bedeque” was also a common name for the community, before the post office opened in 1837. Over a century ago, it was a major shipbuilding centre, and attracted many well-heeled individuals who built summer houses here in the last century. Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, built his summer home here, finding he area reminded him of his native Scotland, and built prototype flying kites and hydrofoil boats.
The town is just a few kilometres north of the southern terminus of the scenic Cabot Trail.
Baddeck Attractions
Centre Bras d’Or Festival of the Arts
Year round evening programs in various locations throughout Baddeck, program varies nightly with visual arts as well as performing arts. In summer months, also hold a series of concerts and ceilidhs.
Season: Open year-round.
Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
Highway 205, east end of town
902 295-2069
This museum is set on landscaped grounds with a view of Bras d’Or Lakes, and the inventor’s summer house “Beinn Breiagh“(beautiful mountain). Exhibits include photos, artifacts and inventions commemorating the life of inventor Alexander Graham Bell. There are kite-building workshops for children. Allow 1 hour. Open year round 9am to 5 pm, 9 am to 6 pm from Mid-May to mid-October shoulder seasons, and from 8:30 to 7:30 during July & August Admission from May 15 to October 15: adults $4.25, seniors $3.25, children 6-16 $2.25, and family rate of $10.75.