Victoria County is located in the heart of Cape Breton Island. It is considered the beginning and end of the world- famous Cabot Trail. Breathtaking vistas and tight-knit communities make Victoria County a welcoming place to live and to visit. Like other areas in Cape Breton, there is a rich mix of cultures including Mi’kmaq, Scottish and Irish. With more businesses per capita than any other municipality in Nova Scotia, this enterprising community is ready for more! The area gets its name from Queen Victoria and you’ll be sure of a royal welcome when you settle in this unique area. The people of Victoria County invite you to learn more about everything this area has to offer you and your business.
Victoria County offers something special around every corner. From the highlands of Ingonish to the rugged shores of Inverness, this area is as rich in history as it is in beauty. Fisheries and tourism are the key economic drivers of this area, fuelled by an energetic group of entrepreneurs, ready to welcome you. The Cabot Trail runs through northern Victoria County, bringing thousands of visitors to the area each year. A range of festivals and events enhance the experience when visiting Victoria County—whether you’re watching whales or tasting haggis at the Gaelic College in St. Ann’s. The diversity of experiences found in Victoria matches its geography. Sprawling mountains, beautiful beaches and quaint villages, Victoria County has it all.
Businesses of any size are welcome in Victoria County, with Municipal Council taking a hands-on approach to ensure the needs of every business—and their customers—are met.
The Village of Baddeck is located in the centre of Cape Breton Island and is considered both the beginning and the end of the Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail stretches along the shore of the Bras d’Or Lake, cutting across the top of the Island and following the western and eastern coastlines. It is considered to be one of the top travel destinations in the world. In fact, Cape Breton Island has been voted one of the top Islands in North America by Travel and Leisure magazine. The Bras d’or Lakes is a mecca for sailing enthusiasts, while hikers and bikers can enjoy an endless array of exhilarating outdoor adventures.
The community also uses the services of Victoria County Transit, which offers inclusive, safe and reliable transportation to residents and visitors.
Victoria County is connected to mainland Nova Scotia by Highway 105, offering businesses a direct link to the Port of Sydney and the Canso Port in Richmond County. Victoria’s sea, road and air transportation options allow for shipping and receiving flexibility. The ports at the Strait of Canso and nearby Sydney are deep-waterports that can accommodate the largest post-Panamax vessels. A full range of trucking services provides another option for transport. Victoria’s multimodal transportation network means businesses can reach customers across the Continent.