Paddling
VIPI Lodge is located in one of Cape Breton’s best (and most unknown!) paddling areas. The area extends around Janvrin’s Island and Isle Madame. Interesting wildlife, secluded islands, coves, and beaches are waiting to be explored. Depending on the wind direction, paddlers can take their tour on the south or north side of the island, staying in the lee and protected waters. We rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and all necessary accessories, including safety equipment. If you only want to paddle in one direction, with the wind, we can pick you up on Isle Madame with our truck.
Cycling
Isle Madame is a quiet island with little traffic and good roads. This makes it a perfect place for cycling. The Celtic Coastal Trail is only a 30-minute drive from us, one of the best cycling trails in Nova Scotia! If you don’t have a bike or don’t want to bring yours, you can rent bikes for all ages from us. Only want to cycle one way? No problem, we can pick you up on Isle Madame with our truck.
Snorkeling
Our Dive Center offers snorkeling tours around our island. We’ll take you with our Zodiac boat to interesting spots where you can explore the shallow emerald world in protected waters. A wonderful experience for (almost) everyone. Snorkeling equipment can be rented at our Dive Center.
Scuba Diving
Since 1989, we have been operating a dive center in Cape Breton at VIPI Lodge. Our dive sites are all primarily located in Chedabucto Bay. The most famous dive is the wreck of the “Arrow”, which sank in 1970. It’s a short 12-minute boat ride from our dock, where divers will find a beautiful artificial reef with abundant marine life – an exciting wreck adventure. Dive depths range between 10m and 35m. Divers must be certified and have cold water experience. Ingo, the boat captain and dive instructor, has been diving since 1972, an instructor since 1979, and has completed thousands of dives worldwide.
Hiking
There are hiking trails on the island, shoreline walks, and even a small trail directly on our property. There are so many places to explore! If you’d like to spend the night in a tent – no problem, we can provide you with the necessary outdoor equipment.
Sundowner Tour
With our Coast Guard-certified boat, we’ll take you around the island to hidden coves, beautiful beaches, and islands. You’ll see wildlife such as seals and eagles. And depending on the water temperature – go for a swim!
Yoga Sessions
Ursula offers group and individual yoga sessions. She is an experienced, professional yoga instructor specializing in individual adaptations and modifications to make yoga enjoyable for everyone. Ursula has worked with students experiencing chronic health issues, post-injury recovery, and physical or emotional pain. Slow Vinyasa yoga style with detailed breathing instructions, alignment training, modifications, and guided relaxation.
www.ursulaklumyoga.com