Normaway Inn

My husband and I booked this stay to reset while travelling through Cape Breton. While the service hasn't changed from other reviews, the friendliest, bubbliest experience we've ever had at a stay, I think there are a few things to be improved considering the price. First of all the family was warm, quirky and welcoming and generous. Didnt hesitate to help us out. The Cape Breton tunes at the barn was a lovely experience and completely new to us. And it was an absolute joy to see highland cows grazing outside our window. That being said, it was a bit expensive for what the rooms were. Our wood stove was filled very high with remnant ash and the door was broken on it so it was very difficult to close. An easy fix would just be to have an ash bucket and a broom beside it. The bed was super comfortable but the sheets could use a refresh as they had multiple chew holes. Exposed wires in the closet pose a safety hazard and also an easy fix. The locks on the doors, although vintage were stubborn to lock and made us feel like we would break the key. The wifi, which was advertised, only worked in one section of the cabin. Other than that the mud room swing was absolutely romantic, and the whole appeal of the cabin was rustic, peaceful and comfortable. The old radio with recorded jig tapes was an absolute gorgeous touch. It felt like we were back in time. The dinner was very over priced for asub optimal quality meal. 19$ for three small scallops, and a mealy seafood chowder. Breakfast was cancelled due to unforseen emergency which can not be prevented but shows this place can certainly use a few more staff to keep it running smoothly. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, Dave and the Macdonald family were knowledgeable and welcoming and it was a joy to experiece the Cape Breton culture. But the Normaway Inn is starting to get a bit run down and its important to have that expectation before booking.

My husband and I stayed at one of the White Cabins at the Normaway Inn. While a bit dated, the Inn had its charms and we had a wonderful stay. We enjoyed using the outdoor firepit during our evenings and looking at the stars. The property was large and had great views, we enjoyed being surrounded by the trees and mountains, and had fun watching the farm animals. The staff was friendly and showed great hospitality. We had breakfast and supper and both were very good. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a little oasis away from the city.

The Normaway Inn and Cabins is a wonderful place to stay at the start or end of your trip around the Cabot Trail. The cabins are rustic. It felt like we were going back in time but with A/C. Our cabin had a screen porch with a 2-person swing and a table with a deck of cards. The grounds are beautiful with horses, a donkey and Highland cattle. The drive from the road is spectacular| The main lodge has a beautiful dining room that you need to book for wonderful meal... try the seafood chowder. Breakfast is delicious with homemade scotch cakes, preserves and granola. The best part of the Inn is the owner, his family and everyone who works there. They are so nice and helpful. You can tell that the Inn is a passion not just a job. |What you get here is great Cape Breton down home friendliness. If you want luxury, go to the Taj Mahal.

We spent two nights in a suite in MacPherson House in October 2024. The accommodations were clean, comfortable and spacious. We didn't use the jacuzzi but the wood stove provided a nice ambience. The fiddle concert in the barn across the road was nothing short of spectacular. We enjoyed a nice supper in the restaurant as well. The owner Dave and his staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. This property has been in the family for generations and is a real treasure.

My wife and I had an incredible visit to Normaway. We arrived late afternoon, and had an incredible dinner, and then we went off to the barn for an evening of music - wonderful fiddle tunes from Chrissy Crowley and Colin Grant, with Hilda Chiasson on piano. And there was square dancing as part of the festivities. Next day, had a wonderful breakfast. Such a great place, David McDonald and his son, Jack, were incredible hosts. And we loved the whole vibe and surroundings. What a beautiful setting. We can't wait for our next visit!

We arrived yesterday only to be met by a very pleasant staff who went out of their way to make our stay very enjoyable. Our dinner was great especially the haddock meal. Even though it was a very busy evening in the restaurant, the staff made sure that we were well taken care of. The property is beautiful and it was fun just to walk around and see the beautiful Highland cows and horses! We will be back next year for sure . Thank you so much Normaway staff.

My wife and I stayed at Normaway just for one night on the way to Cape Breton. The Inn and cabins (where we stayed) are situated on a farm in a beautiful setting with lots of trees and beautiful pastures. The owners Dave and Jim are super friendly and helpful with local info. Dinner and breakfast are served in the Inn dining room with large windows looking out onto the farm; very peaceful setting. And the food was fantastic. Deserts and house made granola were served with berries grown on the farm. We met some guests there from quite far away that come back every year. We will definitely stay again when next in the area and highly recommend it.

We were in Cape Breton mainly to hear the music, having first heard Natalie McMaster twenty years ago. We chose Normaway for our home base. Though sort of in the middle of nowhere, Normaway is relatively close to Judique, Mabou, Cheticamp, Baddeck and the pubs and gathering places where you are going to hear fiddle music. And The Barn at Normaway is itself an important music venue for Cape Breton music. Our cabin was comfortable and spacious with a good bathroom. The resort has a fine restaurant and the owners, Jim and Dave, work hard to make sure you are having a good visit. The general vibe is old style resort. We enjoyed Normaway very much and I recommend it for anyone wanting a deep experience of Cape Breton.