By now, you’ve probably heard me shouting from the rooftops about my awesome stay at North Star, the Nova Scotia hotel that designers Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan recently remodelled and renamed. (If you are among the few who missed my bellowing, catch up by reading my recent published feature here.)
I don’t use the word delightful for just anyone but the Scottish lads who have made Canada their second home were just that during my visit—and authentic, too, which was one of the best parts of my trip to their property in Louisbourg, Cape Breton, not far from my hometown of Sydney.
I’ve had the chance to interview a variety of celebs over the years, from Martin Sheen to Kelly Ripa, and I’m always pleasantly surprised when the personalities turn out to be fairly normal people despite their star status. Maybe I’ve just lucked out but the only one who has totally snubbed me was actress/producer Ellen Barkin. It could have been that her ears were frozen when I attempted to interview her one frigid December night in 2003 during New York City’s Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree lighting extravaganza. Whatever the case, I’ve pegged her a snob ever since.
Not so with Colin and Justin! The pair were gracious hosts during my June visit to North Star with my mother. Both genuinely tried (and succeeded!) in making us and the multitude of other guests feel welcome. Heck, they even took menu orders and served meals, making time to chat and joke along the way. As for an interview, I know they were busy with hotel work and other projects, but they still found a window for my questions and a photo.
The couple’s sincerity and visible love for the area and its people made me smile. As I mentioned in Part 1 of this blog saga, the Louisbourg coastline holds a special place in my heart and has ever since I was a kid. I was apprehensive that the ‘Scottish invasion’ might cause this beautiful region to be impacted in a negative way.
Those fears have been put to rest.
Not only am I duly impressed with Colin and Justin’s stunning makeover of Point of View Suites to North Star, I’m even more excited about what their upbeat spirits and bona fide charm hold for the future of Louisbourg and the island of Cape Breton as a whole.
So break out your calendars, book a stay at North Star and get ready for some uber-friendly, star-powered hospitality! (North Star bookings can be made by calling Mrs. MacDonald at 902-733- 2080.)
And while you’re at it, ponder a visit to a few of my other favourite places in and around Louisbourg, including:
- Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site: The French arrived at Louisbourg in 1713 and, in 1719, began to construct a fortified town. At the spectacular Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, you’ll find the ruins and partial reconstruction of that town and learn about its turbulent history. Get the scoop, including details on how to plan a visit, here.
- Walking trails: No matter your activity level, there’s a trail for you in the Louisbourg area! Learn more here.
- Beaches: If you’re a sucker for a sandy beach or a refreshing dip, Kennington Cove and Anson’s Cove beaches near the Fortress of Louisbourg are a must! Learn more here.
- Want more? Discover other attractions and goodies in Louisbourg here.
See below for some additional pics taken during my stay 🧡
