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New Jersey resident Victor Faubert first visited Cape Breton in 2000 and has returned every year since. Now that he's retired, Victor spends each summer in Cape Breton and returns for several weeks each fall, taking in the beautiful scenery, the traditional Scottish music and the people. "The most striking feature is their warmth, friendliness and curiosity," he said. "And I love the music. It's really joyous."

After crossing the Canso Causeway from mainland Nova Scotia, take Route 19 leading into the Ceilidh Trail. The word Ceilidh, pronounced kay-lee, means a party with traditional Celtic music and dance. Get a first-hand introduction to this feature of the island by dropping into the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique.

Up the road, just before Port Hood (known as the stepdancing capital of Cape Breton), drop into the Chestico Museum and take a dance lesson, usually offered daily at 1 p.m. Further along, you'll discover the tiny village of Mabou, which hosts such events as the Saturday night square-dance. 

Before experiencing the world-famous Cabot Trail, drop into Chéticamp for Acadian culture and to admire the rug-hooking skills. Back on the road, the 185-mile-long Cabot Trail runs through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Along the way there are coves and inlets to explore, as well as opportunities for whale watching.

Eventually you will come to Ingonish, a popular resort area featuring deep-sea fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, golfing, and sailing. A visit to the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts in the village of St. Ann's is a must. The Cabot Trail joins Highway 105 at Exit 11, and a short distance to the southwest you'll find Baddeck on the magnificent Bras d'Or Lakes, home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.  

Backtracking on Highway 105, head northeast to Sydney, a small city with a myriad of attractions, including the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science. It features exhibits on the history and culture of Cape Breton Island, with a special display for children in the Discovery Corner. Scuba divers will want to check out guided dives to the 17th century warship in the Louisbourg Harbour. Close by is Glace Bay where you can take an underground tour of the coal mines. Round off your trip with a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg, the largest historical reconstruction in Canada.

On the drive back to the Causeway, slip into Arichat on Isle Madame for a stop at the Candy Shop, where you'll find treats galore and amazing chocolate.