Starry Night at Keltic Lodge
Wednesday, July 25th, 2012

General Manager Matthew Mackenzie

After I enjoyed a three hour snooze while putting my daughters, Bella and Abbie to bed last night, I decided to go for a walk around the Keltic Lodge.

The paths here are well lit but what I found more illuminating was the stars. I know I have mentioned them before, but I have rarely seen so many stars in the sky anywhere. In fact, I can officially say I have seen the milky way cross the entire sky. The big dipper was massive and each constellation sparkled. I am not one for knowing my stars but star gazing at the Keltic must rank pretty high for those that do love it.

I was also shocked by the flowers at night. We have some amazing gardens that Carol and her team lovingly nurture; however, the air was different at night. It smelled like sweet honey, fragrant and fresh with rose and other scents. The sound of waves with a faint ring of wind chimes from  my front porch… this was a view of this property I seldom enjoy.

I started reflecting on a very nice woman I had met on property, who was visiting with her grandson from Washington DC. When I met them, they were still damp from the pool and were enjoying a little one-on-one time by the playground. They had been with us for five nights as an extended family. Some of the group were at the spa, some at the pool or on a stroll, while others were getting ready for dinner.

Tonight’s walk just made me think that although Ingonish has limited urban attractions, we are bursting at the seems with natural offerings. After 72 years,  Keltic Lodge still holds true as it aids the soul and soothes the mind. You will find the time to touch your partners hand when walking and you will have every opportunity to focus on the lucky few who choose to join you on the journey around the Cabot Trail.

Gordie Sampson song writers circle at Keltic Lodge

If you ask my wee family they would say the Mackenzie’s are on an adventure and that is exactly what we try to do together. This week, we had the Gordie Sampson song writers circle join us at the Keltic and then perform in the Ceilidh Hall which was truly amazing. We took a family trip to Fortress Louisbourg this weekend and I must say that Cape Breton is amazing. The fortress is a serious complex with a casual approach to engaging guests. If you wish to sit and watch the actors perform on the streets while you snack on traditionally made breads, that is just what you should do.

Matthew Mackenzie enjoying his family trip to Fortress Louisbourg

If you want to learn about the times and conditions of living in Cape Breton 400 years ago, just ask any of the actors strolling the dirt roads with their herd of sheep or mending fabrics of the era. Bella, Abbie and Grayson liked the wishing well, animals and room to run.

I work in an industry that is all about sharing what our region offers to our guests. I can say that Parks Canada, the activities around us at the Cape Breton Highlands National Park like Haunted Hikes at dusk and great stories around to smores by the campfire all add to the Keltic Lodge, our home. Life is what you make of it and I am pretty happy to be a part of the Mackenzie clan of five!

Until next time,
Matthew Mackenzie

Animal spotting as of July 24th :

• (32) moose
• (2) deer
• (59) bald eagles
• (3) red fox
• (3) seals
• (23) deer
• (1) cat track the size of your fist
• (1) blue jay
• (1) owl
• (100) chipmunks- they are everywhere!
• (3) beavers
• (1) woodpecker
• (1) porcupine
• (7) minke whales
• countless flocks of birds moving through