Main lodge at Nova Scotia’s historic Keltic Lodge golf resort shutting down

Parks Canada and GolfNorth Properties have announced the closure of the historic Keltic Main Lodge at the Highlands golf resort in Cape Breton.

In 2015, Parks Canada awarded a management lease to the Ontario-based company, which followed through with a $2-million plan for renovations at the picturesque site near Ingonish, N.S.

But a statement on the company’s website says that despite its investment, the condition of the 80-year-old main lodge has proven to be a challenge.

The statement also confirmed the closure of several cottages.

The company says it will take “tens of millions of dollars” to improve the properties to the point they would meet current standards for electrical, heating, air conditioning and accessibility.

GolfNorth says it is working with Parks Canada to develop a long-term plan for a sustainable tourism venue.

“Parks Canada is currently confirming the building’s heritage values through the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office guidelines,” reads a statement on the lodge’s website.

“This … information will be used to inform decisions regarding the future of the building and the recognition of its history.”

Meanwhile, the company says it will continue to operate the nearby Highlands Links golf course, as well as the Corson House & Courtyard Suites, Ceilidh Hall and the Arduaine Restaurant.