Part of what’s great about this island is the relaxed pace of life. Margaree Harbour and villages in the Margaree River valley, for fishing, the Salmon Museum, and water sports, Chéticamp, the largest village on Cape Breton Island's Acadian coast, Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints ("look-offs") in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Ingonish and the surrounding beaches, for water sports, golf, and scenery, St. Ann's, for the Gaelic College and local art studios. Dispose of all trash in covered, designated containers, particularly in the national park. Photo Credit: David Li. It’s a casual bakery, restaurant and coffee shop with a bright dining area filled with natural light and views of evergreens. The Cabot Trail is mainly a scenic drive. Likely the trail Cape Breton is best known for, this 5.9 mile trail can be hiked as a loop, or if you are short on time, you can take a left at the fork for the most breathtaking views and then backtrack. Don’t they look cozy? Each time you complete a distance-based exercise such as running, walking, cycling, swimming, etc you advance along with the map of the Cabot Trail. Get Active at the Cape George Hiking Trails. Some of the domes also have a bay view. Open during June, July, and August. It’s not an international airport, so you would be coming in from Toronto, Halifax or Montreal. Cape Smokey Provincial Park is a great place for a picnic and taking in the sweeping coastal views in the summer and for skiing in the winter. The Cabot Trail is rated one of the top scenic drives by Lonely Planet. The Cabot Trail makes a 185-mile (298-kilometer) loop around a sizeable chunk of the island, passing through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park at its northernmost point. Your email address will not be published. Here’s a map of the island and the trail to give you the lay of the land. The Cabot Trail is a 298KM (186 mile) driving route around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and along the coastline. If you are planning to stop along the Acadian coast, in the national park or near Ingonish's beaches, take a few minutes to think about how long you plan to spend at each place. *I have starred places that are open in the winter. If you plan to drive to Meat Cove, one of the northernmost points on the island, be aware that the road is a combination of gravel, dirt, and mud. At a ceilidh, you will hear lively fiddle music and watch (or bravely attempt?) Located on the Chéticamp River, you can camp with a tent, a motorhome, or rent one of their oTENTiks. Though I am here in the low season, I can attest to the beauty of the Cabot Trail. The best-known feature of the park is the Cabot Trail that draws thousands of visitors every year and is renowned for being one of the most spectacular coastal drives in North America. Nova Scotia's roads are, for the most part, well-maintained. There are potholes, bumpy cold-patched areas and gravelly spots along the way. It’s not every destination that can claim waterfalls, beaches, mountains, evergreens, great fall colors, great seafood, whales, Celtic culture, and charming architecture. Grab breakfast or lunch at The Dancing Moose Cafe. Well, that’s a wrap! Pro Tip: The Dancing Goat checks all the boxes for a digital nomad: fast wifi, plenty of natural light, plenty of outlets and long opening hours, even in February. You will find the trailhead at the bottom of the MacIntosh Brook Campground Loop in the National Park. Pro Tip: Whale watching tours (and all boat tours) are obviously dependent on weather. Beulach Ban Falls is an easy stop less than a mile off the Cabot Trail as you are driving from the North to the West. Mostly, the Cabot Trail skirts the edges of the park, at times clinging to steep oceanside cliffs. Depending on the season, you should be able to spot some wildlife, hopefully even minke, fin or humpback whales! Our teams will be showing you all the great experiences, accommodations and restaurants available to you on the Cabot Trail. You should allow at least 8 hours to drive around the Cabot Trail, starting from Baddeck or the Trans Canada Highway, this will give you time for some stops (highly encouraged). I personally find any place impressive that is equally beautiful in the summer and winter. Thank you! Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you travel clockwise. Their specialty is Dutch Pannenkoek which are available in sweet and savory varieties. The trail passes through many charming communities, each with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable hospitality. Even in the winter it’s busy, with some customers arriving by snowmobile! If you are coming from Halifax, you will have the option to take the ferry after you have already been driving on the trail. Whether you’re doing the Cabot Trail in … While I don’t play, I would be remiss not to mention golf as an activity option for your road trip because the courses on Cape Breton are regularly awarded as some of the most scenic in the world. A bonus, is that many of the accommodation options allow your furry friend to join you! Stay in a yurt, a geodesic dome on a platform with ocean views or in the lodge. You never know when you will come upon an accident. Uisge Ban Falls, named after the gaelic for “white water,” is a 52 foot waterfall 9 miles off the main road. It is far easier driving in Canada, in summer at least, than in Europe.Driving along the Cabot Trail is not really challenging - some road works in August 2016 caused a few minor problems. The Cabot Trail is a highway and scenic roadway in northern Victoria County and Inverness County on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. I recommend joining Captain Zodiac whale tours based in Chéticamp in order to get a small tour experience and the ability to get up close to the whales. You Should Take Time For Whales. Highlands is beautiful for its vistas as well as its quiet forest beauty. If you do see a moose, stop and wait for it to go away. Cape Breton Highlands National Park has some mind-blowingly beautiful trails and Skyline Trail is famous for a reason. You should be able to complete the entire loop on one tank if you are in a car that gets 20-plus miles to the gallon. Based on this, the companies recommend having a plan B. Thankfully since you are doing a slow circuit of the Cabot Trail, you won’t have driven multiple hours to get to your whale watching tour anyway and can be a bit more flexible than many. Thanks to David (Knotty Pines), Bricin (Highlands Hostel), Stephane (Blue Bayou Resort) and Sylvia (Cabot Shores), you get to see some photos of other seasons than winter! This type of structure is pretty popular on Cape Breton and there are ones all over the island, each with a unique view. Find out more Opens in new tab or window Dismiss close travel advisory TravelLemming.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. It passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Truly a trail for every season, Salmon Pools Hike is great for fishing (regulations for Highlands National Park here), rock-hopping or even snowshoeing in winter. The most convenient airport to the Cabot Trail is the Sydney, Nova Scotia airport (YQY). Gas stations are few and far between on the Cabot Trail. Choose the best weather days available to make this trip. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. It costs $7 CAD. Reply. Whenever you come, you will not have to search for incredible views. Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. And get pumped for your trip by reading our 12 Reasons to Visit Nova Scotia! So glad it’s useful! Highlands is known for welcoming & friendly hosts, endless outdoor activity options and stellar recommendations for hidden gems like a local swimming hole and a lobster feast on the beach. Cabot Trail. Canadians grow up hearing the Cabot Trail referenced as one of the most beautiful drives in all of Canada. You won't be sorry; in fact, you'll wish you'd planned more time for the Cabot Trail. Pro Tip: There is more than one Chowder Hut on the island. There really is no wrong way to do the Cabot Trail drive – unless you plan to zip through and get it done in 5 hours with no stops! You’ll find it on a farm that overlooks Bras D’Or Lake, which is part of a UNESCO Biosphere. Cape Breton is famous for Celtic music & dancing and the best way to experience this part of the culture is to attend a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee). Some of the cabins have more of an unobstructed ocean view than the others, so be sure to ask for the ones farthest from the street and closer to the ocean. They serve food from 4 – 9:30pm and regularly have live music. So, at this point, maybe you are wondering what’s the time commitment involved for this trip? You can be in a fog one minute and emerge into the sunshine the next. Andie enjoys blowing people’s minds as her family walks single file through hutongs in China, narrow sidewalks in Florence, and crowded streets in Cairo. Don’t miss l’abri cafe restaurant! You can travel the Cabot Trail clockwise (inside lane) or counterclockwise (outside lane). On the Belle Côte side of Margaree Harbour, drive down to a jetty where you will see a large sign that says Lobster Pound. I’m trying to make a printable version too so people can take it with them! Because there are so many scenic overlooks, cultural heritage sites and hiking trails on the Cabot Trail, spending some time planning your excursion will make your road trip much more enjoyable. The Chowder Hut at Meat Cove offers not only tasty local specialties, but a scenic place to bask in rugged and untouched surroundings and views of both ocean and mountains. Reservations can be made here. Take a sneak peek at the trail in pictures. The Cabot Trail is one of Canada’s ultimate scenic highways. Pay attention as you enter and exit the scenic look-off areas. At the Rusty Anchor, you can watch the sunset over the Atlantic while enjoying dinner on the outdoor deck. Here, you can travel to a variety of seaside communities and see some stunning coastal views around every corner. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park lies along the Cabot Trail, providing world class hiking. The benefit of flying into Halifax, Canada is that it’s an international airport, will have more car rental options, and plane tickets are generally cheaper. This 298 km (186 mi) highway weaves through The Cape Breton Highlands National Park, rewarding travellers with spectacular valley and coastal views all along the way. Be aware that motorhomes cannot take the ferry. It is a heavy tented structure including beds for 6 that have foam mattresses without bedding. One end of the beach has a nice stream and waterfall and is a lovely place to explore. Where to Stay in Cape Breton Island: There are several lodging options when traveling … Take your time on the Cabot Trail. Gampo Abbey, the Lone Sheiling, Beulach Ban Falls, the Bog Trail (one of my favourites) each offer something special if … In addition to traditional park activities, such as camping, hiking, and fishing, check the park's website for information about special events and programs throughout the year. These gorgeous domes offer the chance to experience glamping with beautiful views of the stars while sleeping on a bed (my preferred method of camping!). Cabot Trail Travel Guide Hotels in Cabot Trail Flights to Cabot Trail Car Rentals in Cabot Trail Nova Scotia may have travel restrictions in place, including self-quarantine, due to COVID-19. An upscale place to catch some local music, you can enjoy a drink and some high end appetizers indoors or on the patio of the Highlands Sitting Room of this iconic lodge. A fantastic budget option that offers family and bunk rooms. Recommended: Fish & Chips, Scallops, Lobster Roll. Daily fees (as of 2019) are Can$7.80 per adult, Can$6.80 per senior, Can$15.70 per family group (up to 7 in one vehicle), and under 17 free. Use extra caution if you are driving the Cabot Trail in fog, mist, or rain, all of which are common on Cape Breton Island. We've compiled their suggestions below to help you plan your trip around the Cabot Trail. It’s full of stunning mountain & ocean vistas as well as charming architecture and quaint cafes. The drive passes through Canada’s Cape Breton Highlands National Park as well as a number of lovely fishing villages. The Cabot Trail makes a loop around Cape Breton Island, cutting across the top of the island and closely following the western and eastern coastlines. They are broken up into geographic areas. You can take a whale watching trip here (allow two to three hours) or enjoy the maritime scenery. Our trip to explore the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Nova Scotia was hands-down one of the best trips we have ever taken. Cape Breton is covered with waterfalls, but the locals are always pointing me to Uisge Ban Falls because of its beauty. We had a blast bringing along our toddler but would have loved this trip before kids as well. If you crash into one, the best you can expect is an extended hospital stay. This is a fantastic itinerary as we will only have a day to travel the Cabot Trail. Located on Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island, the Cabot Trail is a 298 km (185 miles) scenic drive through Cape Breton Highland’s National Park and the Atlantic Coast. Designed by local trail builder, Peter Jackson, the Cape George Hiking Trails offer up 33 kilometers of trail in the form of connected loops and linear sections around the Cape George peninsula, overlooking St. Georges Bay.. With a range of trail length and difficulty, there is something for everyone. Reply. I am currently sitting in one of the few cafes open this time of year; I drove 25 minutes to get here and it closes at 3 pm. It’s not hard to see why. It’s part of a region in southeastern Canada called the Maritimes, which includes Prince Edward Island and all of Nova Scotia (both of which were named among the top 5 places to travel in 2020 by in the Travel Lemming Reader Awards!). As a whole, Cape Breton, Canada is an extremely seasonal place. Once you’ve completed the Cabot Trail Loop, it’s time to celebrate. The park ranger will give you a map of the park, marked with trails, picnic areas, and sites of interest. Flush toilets and showers are available at this National Park campground. If you are camping, be sure to secure your food so bears cannot reach it. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide – and be sure to bookmark it for later. Nova Scotia is famous for its fishing villages and so while you’re at Meat Cove, you’d better have some seafood. It is actually possible to drive the Cabot Trail in a day, but I deeply discourage it. Recommended: Lobster (obviously) and Snow Crab. The beautiful vistas, amazing food and friendly people made this trip so worthwhile. Baddeck and East Side of Cabot Trail In my experience, I have to regularly restrain myself from pulling over for photos because otherwise I would never get where I’m going. The weather on Cape Breton Island can vary from moment to moment. Cape Bretoners rave about fall on the Cabot Trail, and it’s not hard to see why. Things to do near Cabot Trail on Tripadvisor: See 28,963 reviews and 3,154 candid photos of things to do near Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. I hope I have successfully piqued your interest enough to come drive the Cabot Trail for one fantastic road trip. This is easy if you plan to drive the loop in one day, but becomes more difficult if you are spending a couple of days on the Trail. There are dozens of other places to stop and see. The 8 Best Multi-Day Hikes in the United Kingdom, The Best Countries in the World for Adventurous Travelers, The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From Taipei, Once Visitors Touch Down in Canada, Here Is Where They Go, Canada's 10 Most Famous and Unforgettable Hiking Trails, Driving in Newfoundland, Canada: What You Need to Know, Driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. The Cabot Trail. You will need to bring cash for the Cape Breton Highlands National Park entrance fee. Tourism Nova Scotia has a helpful resource page with the latest info on travel restrictions. The hostel is right on the Trail, near the Atlantic and is a good base for hiking on the west side of Highlands National Park. Many visitors to Cape Breton Island set aside an entire day—or several days—to see the Cabot Trail's sights. The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, so you can plan your route accordingly. For those tent-camping or driving an RV, this campground will be your best bet on the east side. The town of Baddeck, on Bras d'Or Lake, is a good starting point for the drive. I would also recommend hiring a car if at all possible. Once you visit, it is easy to understand why it tops most people’s list of things to do in Nova Scotia. Stop by this well-loved Nova Scotia organic craft brewery. Once you visit, it is easy to understand why it tops most people’s list of things to do in Nova Scotia.. I recommend the counterclockwise approach which is east to west. Part 2 of our trip through Canada! Especially if you fly into Halifax airport, you should find plenty of options. It will get under your skin, in the best possible way, and you will be better for it. Still, most people will probably want to come during the months of June to October as you will find everything open, beautiful weather, and dry roads. Ideally, it is best to have at least 3 days to enjoy what the Cabot Trail has to offer. Pro Tip: This location is the first on the list officially within Highlands National Park. Gas up before you start driving. Because this part of the Cabot Trail is in the park, you will need a daily pass displayed in your car from this point on in order to stop at many locations along the way. The Cabot Trail also goes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a superb hiking destination. This trail has a mild elevation gain and is beautiful all year, but it’s most spectacular during peak fall foliage, when the surrounding hills are aflame with red, gold and oranges mixed with the evergreens. While Sydney is the most convenient airport to the trail, it’s not necessarily the easiest or cheapest airport to fly into. Build some time into your itinerary for unexpected stops, slow meal service, and traffic issues. Heading towards the north side of the loop, you will find possibly the most beautiful beach on the Cabot Trail. With so much to do, it makes for the perfect Nova Scotia road trip destination. Bring your binoculars, especially from May-October. The Cabot Trail and all of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia is perfect for travelers of all ages. You could easily spend several days along the route, enjoying slow travel at its finest. Regardless of where you fly in, Nova Scotia is a beautiful & friendly place and any drive to the Cabot Trail is sure to be scenic of its own accord. Everything I have tried there is delicious; soups, desserts, quiche, sandwiches & coffee were all great. Here are some of my favorites: The most beautiful winding roads. They’ll be starting in Baddeck and traveling the trail in both directions and advocating for their direction. The Markland offers one and two bedroom beach cottages as well as hotel rooms. If you are driving your own car, be sure the brakes are in good shape before attempting this drive. I will be laying out the road trip by starting on the east side of the Cabot Trail around Baddeck and heading toward Cape North, west to Chéticamp, and finishing the loop by heading south through Margaree Valley back to Baddeck. Watch for moose. Because the road goes up and down steep grades and curves, the clockwise direction is better for drivers (and passengers) who dislike driving next to steep drops. Nancy Parode is a freelance travel writer who has lived abroad three times. Most visitors want to stop here and there along the Cabot Trail, not only to stretch their legs or take photos but also to more fully enjoy the Cabot Trail experience. Scottish step dancing. You’ve asked... so WE'VE asked our Travel Counsellors at each of the six Nova Scotia Visitor Information Centres what their recommendations are to experience the best of Cape Breton Island’s famous Cabot Trail. Find a local radio station and listen to the island's music. IMPORTANT NOTICE TO READERS: Please note that this article was originally drafted before the pandemic, so not all activities mentioned may be open or safe to visit at the moment. Island Sunset Lobster Pound Bistro is a casual eatery where you can pick your own seafood and they will cook it while you wait. Also, there is such a stunning beauty here that I find it hard to absorb, even with months to try. Travel Lemming encourages you to avoid travel until such time as local public health authorities in both your country and your destination advise that travel is safe for you and the communities you will visit. It is doable for beginners and has sweeping views of the Atlantic and the park’s beauty. Seeing wildlife is a popular activity on the Cabot trail and whale watching, in particular, can be incredible. Where you stay depends on whether you are camping or not. They also have a private rocky beach and the water in the harbour is great for kayaking. You do not want your brakes to fail on one of the 13 percent grades. Driving the Cabot Trail encompasses the best of Cape Breton Island. How Long Does it Take to Drive the Cabot Trail? When I ask locals their favorite spot on the island, Ingonish comes up time and again. There’s a lot to cover in this guide, so use this table of contents to skip around: Got your road trip music on now? Savor this time by including a hike to a waterfall or spend a few moments at a scenic overlook. While the island has plentiful evergreens that make the winter beautiful, the colors in fall are unmatched. Reasons to Travel the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. Cue up your favorite driving tunes and I’ll share everything that you need to know to drive the beautiful Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island! Visitors stay on the outskirts of the park at Ingonish, a collection of small villages around two bays on … While there are no hook-ups at this campground, there are flush toilets and showers available. One option for arriving at the Cabot Trail from Sydney is taking the seasonal Englishtown Ferry across an ocean inlet, which is a brief ride of less than 5 minutes that cuts out 30 minutes of driving. The facility is tucked in a bend of the Cabot Trail and is not directly on the ocean, but close enough to walk. The Cabot Trail is a 185 mile loop of jaw-dropping beauty in the northern part of Cape Breton Island (roughly two-thirds of the Cabot Trail is Atlantic coastline). Above all, take your time and enjoy the experience. Several months after becoming accidentally nomadic, her family landed their first housesitting gig for 5 months during Nova Scotia winter and took up worldschooling.
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