Fortress at Louisbourg - how worthwhile?
 

Looking for opinions. We (2 "mature" adults) have visited Cape Breton 3 times, have not yet gone to Louisbourg. Are now planning another visit. We tend to focus on the ocean, scenery, hiking, photography, nature stuff, seafood and cute little towns. Typically, historical sites more recent than, say, Ancient Greece, are not things we would usually go much out of our way for. Is Louisbourg worth the added day and night needed to plan a visit?

When I started to respond to your post, I realized I couldn't remember much about Louisbourg, where I visited about eight years ago. So maybe that answers your question.

Also, based on what you wrote about your interests, and recent historical sites, I'd say it's not worth the extra day and night. In your place, I'd spend the time doing the other things you enjoy.

You seem to have answered your own question. Why would you be interested in a historical site like Louisbourg?

From my own perspective, I visited Louisbourg ten years ago and still have a vivid memory of the visit. For me, the reconstruction from the original plans and the animators made this a truly fascinating experience. For my part, I would certainly visit again, but then I do have an interest in history more recent than that of Ancient Greece.

I would not miss the Fortress of Louisbourg in my opinion. It is a great experience. You have the ocean right there, small little town, scenery, lighthouse, great seafood, and evening entertainment at the Playhouse. I vote YES.

I love Louisburg and have great memories. I would say it is a must!

Thanks for your opinions. I'm not really completely disinterested in even recent history, and wouldn't hesitate if it didn't involve a whole extra day. And I'm sure it's probably in a nice setting on the ocean - but we're already spending a whole lot of other days and nights in various spectacular ocean settings. So the trip would be solely to see the reconstructed Fortress. That said, I am leaning, more so than my SO, towards Louisbourg.

I get your reluctance, Mat54, and so will share a recent experience.

My SIL (late 50's, teacher) and my daughter (26, artsy) went to visit Louisbourg last fall while I stayed 'home' in Lunenburg, NS to make Thanksgiving dinner (Cdn Thanksgiving is in mid-October)for the family.

When they got back, they kept us fascinated by their trip. They had a really good time and found it all very interesting and beautiful. And when they went, it was shoulder-season so a lot of the illuminations and re-creations weren't even happening.

I was really sorry I didn't go with them and will visit next year.