Highlands Hostel

Welcome to Highlands Hostel, a beautifully restored historic church in Cape North, located at the northern tip of the world-famous Cabot Trail and only minutes from Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Whether you're hiking scenic trails, cycling, skiing, snowshoeing, taking an unforgettable road trip, or simply looking to relax, you'll discover a welcoming atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and a vibrant community of travellers from around the globe. Rated 5 stars by more than 400 guests, the hostel is celebrated for its outstanding cleanliness, friendly hospitality, and unique historic charm. Choose from Highland Haven, a private room for up to four guests with its own assigned bathroom; Lookout Loft, a cozy six-bed mixed dorm overlooking the lively common area; or Basecamp Dorm, an accessible 11-bed mixed dorm with a dedicated wheelchair-accessible bed available upon request. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped communal kitchen, spacious lounge and dining area, free Wi-Fi, outdoor deck with seating and hammocks, a fire pit for evenings under the stars, free parking, laundry facilities, and secure bike storage. Whether you're exploring the trails, spotting whales along the coast, or simply embracing the peaceful beauty of northern Cape Breton, Highlands Hostel offers the perfect place to relax, recharge, and share unforgettable experiences with fellow adventurers all year round.

Still wondering how many days to spend with us? Read what our past guests have to say about their stay at Highlands Hostel. Their experiences might just convince you to stay a little longer!

Here’s what Elizabeth wrote

"What an amazing experience at Highlands with Bricin and Patricia. They are just two lovely authentic people who do their absolute best to maintain a beautiful and clean hostel for their many guests. I have stayed in many hostels across the world and this must be one of the best. It feels like home and I can give no higher praise than that! Our family stayed in the family room with my elderly mother and our friend’s young daughter and we all loved the place. Thank you Bricin and Patricia for our wonderful stay with you!"

Here’s what Sarah wrote

My experiences at the Highland Hostel have been life affirming. Patricia is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. Add to that her incredible partner Bricin, their adorable and beautifully creative children Billie and Cash, and the best ever Grandpa Peter…and you have the makings of a trip to Cape North, Highlands Hostel, and Cape Breton that you will never forget. The area is unparalleled in beauty world wide and the friendliness of the area is heart warming. You will want to come back…and even consider moving here. Thank you, Highland Hostel and your guardians. I am grateful to you and will be back.

Here’s what Chris wrote

Staying with Patricia, Bricin, and the kids was like stopping off to spend a night with family. I was motorcycling the Cabot Trail but what I’ll remember most is the warm welcome, the fun family atmosphere, and the restful sleep. You will wish you had more time to spend with these folks in their beautiful establishment.

Here’s what Gordon wrote

You absolutely need to stay here. This is the best hostel on the planet. Whether you're looking for family-friendly or vagabond skater vibe, the family running this place puts their soul into making it the best experience in so many ways. Being an old church, I was surprised to find it's also THE CLEANEST hostel I had ever been to. I will be coming back no doubt, and I know now why so many do.

More reviews here