Driving the Cabot Trail, discovering Gampo Abbey and hanging out at the Fortress of Lousibourg were highlights of my time in Cape Breton. It was a letdown, then, when I arrived in Sydney, toted as the “big city” of Cape Breton Island.
Granted, I couldn’t give it much of a chance. I had so little time there and it poured rain, so any city can seem pretty dreary under those circumstances. I understand that, but there wasn’t much for me to “see through.” With so many amazing places in Nova Scotia, it’s hard to get back to a city that just lacks… charm.
Hotels in Sydney Nova Scotia
I checked out two hotels while I was there: the Cambridge Suites Hotel (380 Esplanade, 902-562-6500 or 1-800-565-9466) and the Delta Sydney (300 Esplanade, 902-562-7500 or 1-800-565-1001). Again, after staying in the cozy confines of the Amherst Shore Country Inn or the elegant luxury of DesBarres Manor, it’s hard to be excited about chain hotels.
Sydney Restaurants
There are some good pubs along the main street and waterfront, and I preferred the cozy atmosphere of Governor’s Pub and Eatery (233 Esplanade, 902-562-7646). It has the history- the city’s first mayor lived here when it was a home in the late 1800s- and the location, right in downtown on Esplanade and within walking distance to the water.
Outside of the city core, in Sydney Mines, is the absolutely lovely Gowrie House Country Inn. Now, this B&B is what I had now come to expect from Nova Scotia accommodations. Towering trees are the welcome you get when you drive into this Georgian home. And it felt like home, just an ornate, countryside version of home.
There are 10 rooms to choose from and one caretaker’s cottage, all decorated in their own forms of down home country. The well-tended gardens that surround the property are a respite from the car heavy centre of Sydney.
What I Liked:
- Getting off of the main street to find Gowrie House Country Inn.
- While on Esplanade street, though, I did enjoy my time at the Governor’s Pub and Eatery. Good people there and the two patios, one on each level, are great for hanging out with a pint and meeting the locals.
Copyright 2009 Lori Henry
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