Starting Where My Heart Is: A Joy-Filled Cape Breton Family Getaway

Welcome to Midlife Report — my new space for sharing stories about and for women 50+! Here, you’ll find travel inspiration, wellness ideas and real-life stories of joy, reinvention and connection. I created this blog so more women in our amazing age range will say YES to what sparks joy and lights up their soul.

For me, one of those things has always been family. Reconnecting with loved ones, especially across generations, fills me with a deep sense of happiness and grounding. So it felt right that my first post should celebrate a multigenerational getaway — the kind of trip filled with meaningful conversations, loads of laughs and memories that last long after you’ve returned home.

Perched above the warm tidal waters of Port Morien Bay in South Head, N.S., Terra Nova Retreat is an impressive log home where rustic charm meets modern comfort.

Our Cape Breton Gathering Spot

We found that magic at Terra Nova Retreat, a stunning handcrafted log home in South Head, N.S., a small seaside community in southeast Cape Breton. Listed on Airbnb, Terra Nova is owned by Eleanor and Terence Roach, a sweet couple who bought the property about a decade ago. Back then, it was a partially built dream that had been abandoned mid-construction. Over the years, they brought it to life with care, detail and warmth, resulting in a home that’s both luxurious and welcoming.

Eleanor and Terence Roach, owners of beautiful Terra Nova Retreat.

With my parents living just a 30-minute drive from the property in Sydney, my hubby, two daughters, one son-in-law and a dog made the drive from New Brunswick here for a few days of together time. Terra Nova’s spacious layout was perfect for our three generations under one roof (and it’s pet-friendly!)

The open-concept kitchen, dining and living areas invite conversation, shared meals and relaxed time together.

With its open layout and comfy leather seating, Terra Nova’s living room is a fantastic gathering space.

Though not used during our visit, a wood stove adds to the cozy charm. The TV might be a great feature during rainy stays but we don’t even turn it on, blessed by gorgeous weather and so much to do.

This little vignette creates a cheery corner off the kitchen.

An enormous clock fills one of the vaulted space over the living room, though no one is watching the time.

Sunlight pours through a second-floor window. No worries! A heat pump keeps everyone cool during our mid-summer visit.

Thoughtful Touches and Chef’s Kitchen Feasts

From the moment we arrived, we felt at home. A welcome basket of local treats greeted us and the fridge was stocked with condiments, fresh eggs, and other essentials.

The chef’s kitchen quickly was a delight. With its generous counter space, high-end appliances and every gadget imaginable, it was a wonderful spot for making meals together.

A dreamy kitchen became our weekend hub when we weren’t enjoying the great outdoors.

A warm Cape Breton welcome — Terra Nova’s owners greet visitors with a basket of local treats and a fridge stocked with fresh eggs, condiments and other essentials.

A coffee, tea and microwave station are lovingly tucked under the dramatic staircase.

Waterfront bliss

One of Terra Nova’s biggest draws is its private waterfront on warm tidal waters. We swam, kayaked, fished and waded with the dog, who was only too happy to join in the fun.

The waters adjacent the property are part of Port Morien Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean on Cape Breton’s southeastern coast. The sheltered shoreline means the area has warmer temps than the open Atlantic, making it lovely for a family frolic.

The shoreline was a beehive of activity for fishing, swimming and just catching up.

My oldest daughter takes a solo spin in a kayak on the peaceful waters fronting the property.

Happily surrounded by family and amazing views, I wave to the camera and float on by.

The amber wood tones of the home’s massive logs create a charming backdrop to the porch overlooking the waterfront. 

From the wide porch, we watched spectacular sunsets that painted the sky in gold and pink. Peace and quiet reigned — just the sound of the occasional bird call.

Speaking of birds, a graceful great blue heron became our unofficial neighbour, often spotted fishing along the shoreline. Osprey and other species were also in the mix.

And here’s a rare Cape Breton treat: surprisingly few bugs — no frantic slapping or sprinting indoors required. Hallelujah!

A great blue heron embarks on some sunset fishing.

Restful Nights, Bright Mornings

After full days of fresh air and water fun (not to mention hearty dinners and a few rounds of fiercely contested family games), none of stayed up too late. We headed to our own cozy corners of Terra Nova, ending our days in the luxury of spa-like baths and well-appointed bedrooms. By morning, we woke feeling rested, recharged and ready to do it all over again.

My parents were more than comfortable in this first-floor bedroom and nearby bathroom with shower.

Hubby and I drifted off to dreamland in this spacious bedroom featuring soft blues, a serene style and its own balcony.

This inviting bedroom with waterfront views has an adjacent balcony, a lovely spot for morning coffee.

Bath anyone? I may have lingered in this clawfoot gem a bit, soaking up a solo moment and the coastal décor.

Little touches that make you smile: Wish, Hope and Dream stones on the vanity remind guests to slow down and savour the moment.

Why It Matters

Trips like this remind me why I decided to write Midlife Report. Life is busy and, as the years go by, I’m feeling increasingly motivated by connection — to each other, to nature and to ourselves. Our family time at Terra Nova gave me the chance to refocus on ways to come together, unplug and just be.

This is the kind of midlife I'm ready for, filled with love, laughter and unhurried days. Here’s to joyful gatherings that make the midlife soul sing!