Keep your eyes open for a small sign on the left. Plus, because it was a loose itinerary it left plenty of room to explore on my own, finding my own unique experiences and sleeping in when I wanted! Make sure to bring a GPS and a map so that you arent relying on your phone GPS. A. We should do it next year.. It was so incredibly fresh and succulent. *This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may make a referral fee if you purchase a product or service through my link. 41 Arbor Trail Dr , Cabot, AR 72023 is currently not for sale. Theres no better introduction to eating lobster than cooking your own on the beach and being instructed by an expert! 5. Internet is poor in this part of Nova Scotia. I only make recommendations when I truly LOVE something, and it wont cost you a LOONIE more. Within the park, we also took one very short hike just to stretch our legs near the end of the day. I would 100% visit again in Octoberhighly recommend! 25 Best Womens Travel Boots for Fall: Comfortable & Cute! The Skyline Trail seems mostly even, but you dont realize until you turn around and head back that the path had been slowly sloping downward the whole time. If youre from Atlantic Canada, then you know how difficult it is to dress (and pack) for our Fall days. A little bonus tip as you head south and leave Cape Breton Island is to drive the 'Mini-Cabot Trail'. On this day we dealt with a lot of rain, but still managed to have a great time. Visits at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys are Monday to Friday only and must be booked in advance. The Learn to Lobster Boil is $58.70 CAD ($44) per person, $22 CAD ($17) for people who dont want to eat lobster. Its a better spot for picking up pastries and taking back to wherever youre staying or even on a picnic in the national park! Much better than carrying an umbrella. I needed exactly ZERO nice pieces of clothing. Its much more dangerous than hitting a deer. You can explore indigenous Mikmaq culture, Acadian culture, and Gaelic culture all on this same island. Next, if you have the time, visit the Highland Village. On this day, everything changes. Today is the first day that you'll really start to experience the gorgeous scenery and landscape of Cape Breton's coastline. They actually had lavender lattes and lavender London Fogs on the menu! Cailin was sampling oatcakes, a Nova Scotian delicacy, throughout Cape Breton, and we found that Aucoin Bakery had the largest and softest oatcakes of all. Hiking is a very popular activity in the Fall, and the. Need I say more? or are they all close in september ? You can travel the Cabot Trail for longer if youd like, having a more leisurely trip than we did, and traveling for longer gives you a bit of insurance in case you have some rainy days. Considered one of the top drives in North America, it should be considered more a . Save it! This is a great spot to stop for a coffee and a browse. Earlier this year, I met representatives from Visit Nova Scotia and we decided to do a campaign together. We finally checked an item off my bucket list and drove Cape Bretons Cabot Trail to see the Fall colours! Flights, cars, car ferries and cars are the easiest way to get from Pennsylvania Station (New York City) to Cabot Trail and depart hourly. This is a great area for getting off the Cabot Trail and exploring. You may be getting thirsty by now and in need of a road soda. The island is such a gem representing the true beauty and heart of the Maritimes. But, St. Anns Bay isthe best place to find a wide selection of shops to choose from in one concentrated area. Wonderful and welcoming people. The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile driving loop that has picturesque lookout points, miles of hiking trails, lush forests and 360 degree beauty, plus quaint crafty shops, harbors and delectable fish eateries. While we enjoyed the drive of the entire loop, our first sightseeing stop on the Cabot Trail didnt come until we were just outside of Ingonish (almost halfway through the drive!) All in, you have a drive that can take the better part of a day. Chticamp was my favorite part of the Cabot Trail because there are so many cool things to do nearby. Prepare to be amazed by incredible views and dont be afraid to squeeze in a short hike on this day! If you have time, you can drive all the way to hilariously named Meat Cove, near the northern tip of Cape Breton. Sometimes its 0C in the morning and 17C by the afternoon. I recommend calling places in advance to make sure they are open before you visit. This was SO MUCH FUN! If you only have one or two days, I recommend staying in the Chticamp area rather than trying to do the whole trail. Be sure to periodically clean your windshield. The fall colors look incredible! Its a small but very pretty town. Though this restaurant is technically not on the trail, but still on Cape Breton Island, youre gonna be hungry after all that driving and theres no better place to load up on lobster (or crab) with all-you-can-eat mussels. You can buy a virtual coffee to help others get outdoors! You will see signs advising you of how to behave if encountering a moose. Some of my favourites include the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, the Lake Superior route in Ontario, and (you guessed it) The World Famous Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island. If you can give at least 4-5 days to the road, itll give you so much more in return. Id suggest 2-3 days, though its possible to drive around in a day (with few stops). But for me and Cailin, our favorite portrait was of a white Persian cat. In the 1960s, she did portraits of all the Apollo astronauts as well as JFK, Jackie Kennedy and Pope John Paul II! There are many beaches along the way as well. The Cabot Trail exists for one reason: to get to the east shore of Jordan Pond. Cape Breton is known for being a slow-paced and beautiful corner of Nova Scotia. Would you like to do this road trip? And its fantastic. This was my first time in Nova Scotia (well, I also went when I was a fetus, my parents are quick to point out), but it reminded me so much of where I grew up. But I disagree with the author, driving counter clockwise is the only way to go. Celtic Colours takes place all over Cape Breton, not just on the Cabot Trail and consists of concerts, learning workshops, meals, markets, and more. A. I would recommend bringing a jacket if conditions are similar. SCENIC STOPS & DRIVING MAZDA CX-50. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas is now based in St. George, New Brunswick. How long does it take to drive the Cabot Trail? The Cabot Trailisa 185-mile loop located on Cape Breton Island in the Northeastern part of Nova Scotia. Many folks travel to Nova Scotia just to take this drive, making it a 3-4 day vacation. Rates from $149 CAD ($112 USD). You will need to watch for them on the roads and also when you are hiking. Here are six recommended trails in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park that can be found along the Cabot Trail: Skyline trail, Franey trail, Acadian trail, Fishing Cove trail, Aspy trail and Middle Head trail. Answered: I have been reading trip reviewsI for ides and this is where I am. You can get a park map at both of the entrances to the park (Cheticamp and Ingonish). The online description said the campsites are in a field, which is basically the case. The Bog Trail is a fairly popular stop for a quick boardwalk hike along an open bog. Posted on June 7, 2017 by BryanH. At night, its much cooler, and youll be ready to bundle underneath the covers. Learn to Lobster Boil uses Aucoin Bakery rolls for their dinners. You can even eat amidst the piles of stuff for sale! They were booked up and we had to wait about an hour, but it was worth it to have YET ANOTHER DELICIOUS WHOLE LOBSTER and some lovely strawberry rhubarb pie. We are however 75 & 80 years old. Ingonish Whale Watching has fishing boat tours from $40 CAD ($30 USD) per person and zodiac tours from $45 CAD ($34 USD) per person. Its also one of the best Instagram spots on the Cabot Trail. Ok. Lets talk about the top reason I was interested in the Cape Breton Highlands the Skyline Trail. National Geographic Traveler named their lobster roll the best on the trail, though their fish cakes were no joke either. Driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park is like driving in a cartoon. Out and Across, 2022. The water is safe to drink throughout Cape Breton and this cuts down on waste. Hiking gear. Youll want the good stuff if youre doing challenging hikes. Q. Clockwise or Counter-clockwise? Cape Breton was the second stop of our road trip through the Maritimes and what a wonderful surprise that was! An easy option, andhow I traveled throughout Nova Scotia, wasby taking aflexibleself-driving tour withCanada by Design. These beautiful scarves have a hidden pocket in them, which is great for holding onto valuables or cash without carrying a purse. Youll always find interesting places to explore. You can get them from another angle (albeit from a distance) at Ingonish Beach. Yes! No worries! Start your day with breakfast, then plan to hit up a lot of sights. The hooked rugs were so interesting. Where should I stay? Dancing Goat |6289 Cabot Trail,North East Margaree | Map. The, is a great choice in Baddeck. I dont think Ive ever seen such beautiful roads as I did in Cape Breton! The freshest, most succulent, most delicious lobster. I grew up in Massachusetts and camped in New Hampshire every summer, so Brake for Moose has been driven into my head since birth. Looking for more ways to explore? Entry to theMi-Carme Interpretive Centreis $5 CAD ($4 USD) per adult and $4 CAD ($3 USD) per senior or student. Where to Stay in Cape Breton Island: There are several lodging options when traveling to Cape Breton Island. http://www.cbisland.com/the-island/cabot-trailThe Cabot Trail is more than a magnificent world-renowned drive - it is an experienceOne to delight inone to . We are planning to bring our family to my birthplace in summer of 2023. If you travel clockwise, youll be on the inside lane around the trail. To get here, you can book flights from Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax, You can easily check for the best fare deals at. Summer brings in a lot of visitors to the island and it never hurts to be overprepared for your vacation! For something on the less expensive side, try the, located in Judique. If you have the time, take a break from the Cabot Trail to explore this unique part of Nova Scotia. If you have any other recommendations to share, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below. The rocks make a great texture, too. It feels more like New Hampshire or Maine! The scenery was great, and you can stop and admire the views at Cape George Lighthouse. Theyve built a new business in their new home of Canada. It would matter if you only drove in one direction and never backtracked whatsoever. Hover over the image to add to Pinterest! driving on that highway will be great experience and its have so good stops. 4. Make sure to pick up a bag of homemade cookies (snicker doodles or ginger sparkles) for the road. ), Have a craft beer (ie. The smart, thoughtful guides at Parks Canada who were bubbling over with their love for the outdoors. ), Driving The Cabot Trail Counter-Clockwise. Keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists. Insect repellant. Travel from United States to Canada is: Unrestricted . One incredible national park. Also, there are dozens of bicycle tours going in that direction each year, I have never heard of one going in the other direction. Your jaw will drop - for real - at the sight of this sweeping cliff-and-forest-cloaked coastline. The artist who worried about the impact of Airbnb on young Cape Bretoners being unable to afford homes. Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com. I got a SIM card and data plan from Lucky Mobile. It is a 298 km (185 mi) loop around the northern tip of the island, passing. Youll find many restaurants with delicious seafood cuisine as welllobster or clam chowder, anyone? Choose from several map styles. Learning from actual indigenous people is all too rare these days, and it should be cherished. Theres so much deeply rooted tradition, and thriving local business to support along the trail. While I didnt get to this museum on our trip, Ive heard so many good things, including from Cailin and small, tightly focused museums are my favorites! Louisburg is home to a historic village in the south of Cape Breton. Its a debatable dilemma. Stay at Silver Linings Inn one more night. Thank you, About Annette Photo Gallery My Bucket List Press, The JA Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport is the main, full-service airport in Cape Breton Island. Views from the trail look down over the ocean and rugged coastline of Cape Breton Highlands National Park and are truly breathtaking. (Thanks to my Dad for the golf info hes the golf expert in the family). You might also want to check out the Fortress of Louisbourg on your trip. Theres a worthwhile hike up Meat Cove Mountain for spectacular views of the wilderness and the Atlantic. We found them to be perfect for our party of two couples! We also brought hats and gloves too because the wind can be quite chilly, even in the sun. Now with all that housekeeping out of the way, lets pick some fun activities to do while driving the Cabot Trail! You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance. Stop at Laurences General store in Margaree Harbour, where beverages may share the same aisle as a hammer, and take a walk through this small Cape Breton Island village or along the pristine beach. There is a full museum at the Mi-Carme Centre that shares the history of the event. The Cabot Trail is just a small piece of what makes Cape Breton special, but is the region I will be discussing below. We are planning to bring our family to my birthplace in summer of 2023. There is plenty of hot water, and you can easily get privacy by pulling down the curtains. By bus . We drove the entire Cabot Trail in 2004 in a 26 ft. Safari Trek (Class A), and had no problems. Is there cell service?A. Three interesting cultures in one place, shared proudly with visitors. There are narrow roads, plus plenty of big bends and dips. And I mean that. Awesome post! Spend the afternoon driving to Chticamp and get an early dinner. Dont miss The Farmers Daughter market in Whycocomagh, and enjoy a bit of tradition at The Gaelic College in St. Anns (nice gift shop, too!). If you are not renting a car but would love to explore Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail, consider joining a multi-day group tour that includes pick-ups and drop-offs, such as this, Its always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. If you choose to visit, you will meet some of the kindest, most helpful people working local tourist stops; including restaurants, golf courses, tour companies and so much more. Pjilasi. I read amazing things about Middle Head Trail and the views from here may be worth checking out. Many artists call this part of Nova Scotia home and countless galleries and cultural experiences . After the Celtic Colours Festival everything begins to shut down for the winter. You can also drive from mainland Nova Scotia via the Canso Causeway, or take a Marine Atlantic ferry from Newfoundland. A lot of people ask whether you should drive the Cabot Trail clockwise or counterclockwise. You could luck out and have a perfectly sunny Cabot Trail road trip or you could get a lot of rain. I am going to shamelessly admit that this was my favorite stopwho can pass up a cute, furry 4-legged animal? Just for laughs! Next, drive through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Cabot Trail is a picturesque road on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, that runs through northern Victoria and Inverness counties. I loved how the guides weaved in traditions and how they use them today, like medicinal plants that are used to treat cancer. There are areas without any service at all. The best answer depends upon how comfortable you are driving on sometimes curvy two lane roads, and whether you are good at controlling speed on downhill sections. Learn about Acadian culture at Les Trois Pignons. (Check out her list of best things to do in Nova Scotia here.). Glad you enjoyed it. The best known activity on the Cabot Trail is the Skyline Trail, a hike in the park best done at sunset. Its a great place to pick up a Nova Scotia souvenir! That is so great to hear! From MacIntosh Brook Campground to Fishing Cove, Cape Split Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Nova Scotia, Fishing Cove Backcountry is One of the Best Cape Breton Campgrounds, 10 Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike. Experience the natural beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands as you drive the famous Cabot Trail. Cape Breton is a very casual destination. You can stay at my house! one of the women offered. The weather can change frequently, and almost every day I wore some kind of cardigan, long-sleeved shirt or fleece on top. Big Spruce Brewing) or sample single malt whisky at Glenora Distillery. DAY 2: Baddeck to Ingonish and Neil's Harbour. Please read the cautions posted on signs at the entrance to, and throughout the trails and be safe. The Gold Bar in particular is SO decadently good! Ive got to make my way up to Canada one of these days. Rates at Silver Linings Innin Chticamp start at $149 CAD ($112 USD). Aside from being gorgeous, Chticamp makes a great base for exploring because it is on the edge of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and has all the amenities needed for a relaxing weekend. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner, which also has the option to choose cheapest month as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. It feels so different from where youve been, but thats the magic of the Cabot Trail. A last minute discovery for us, Gypsum Mine Lake is apparently newly opened to the public. and its definitely worth a stop if you love history. Nova Scotia is a province located along the Eastern portion of Canada, and is mostly bordered by coastline. Nova Scotia is waiting for you. 2021 is still virtual! Most of the cartoon-like curvy roads are along the 30-minute drive between the entrance at Chticamp and the Skyline Trail. You take part in a smudging ceremony, learn about hunting and weapons, learn some dancing, and even cook some bread over the fire, Mikmaq-style. We had a fantastic short hike here that only took us an hours time. For years Cailin has been telling me that Nova Scotia has the best lobster in the world (or, more often, yelling, THATS NOT LOBSTER! whenever I eat lobster in the Caribbean). You can certainly still have a great trip (with less crowds) later in the month, but it will take a little more advance planning. What a sense of wonder! In short, the Cabot Trail is more diverse than you might think! This is worth looking into, although it should be reserved in advance. Check out my Cabot Trail long weekend itinerary. You may have heard of Peace by Chocolate its a chocolate shop run by Syrian refugees who were chocolatiers before they were forced to flee their home country. I recommend spending a day doing a loop around the Halifax area. I recommend removing the seeds or asking for no seeds on top they taste too much like soap to me. Does it matter which way you drive round? The white cottages perched atop the red-brown cliffs are spectacular, whether its sunny or rainy. The California equivalent is the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles, which is far more driven in that direction to enjoy the sights. There are several lodging options when traveling to Cape Breton Island. In the morning, stop at Aucoin Bakery. It might be a little too cold to swim in Cape Breton or not! Im used to Maine lobster, but Nova Scotia lobster is on another level. Its a quick stop on the Cabot Trail and one of the most breathtaking. If I'm understanding the maps, the actual trail circles from Baddeck to. A portable safe. The Ultimate Nova Scotia South Shore Road Trip, © 2022 Will Save For Travel | Site Design by. While you might want to bring something nice to wear out in Halifax, you wont need anything upscale here. While I didnt do everything I planned, it was definitely better than driving around in 1 or 2 days. Heres one below. It depends how much time you have at this point before dinner, but this is a great opportunity to explore the western part of the park and take lots of photos! This page shows the location of Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, NS B0E 2P0, Canada on a detailed road map. And sharing it with an interesting group of travelers and Parks Canada guides made it even better. Since it was a rainy day, it seemed like a good opportunity to check out some of the local businesses! Standing on top of Meat Cove Mountain really felt like the edge of the world. The Cabot Trail is mainly a scenic drive. Honestly, it doesnt matter. Admission to the Highland Village is $11 CAD ($8 USD) per adult, $9 CAD ($7 USD) per senior and $5 CAD ($4 USD) per child. Especially if you are visiting over Celtic Colors, or (Canadian) Thanksgiving weekend. As a girl who has spent a lot of time in nature, I would advise that wildlife is typically easier to see in the mornings and evenings when there is less foot traffic by people and animals are more active. But you still need to book your accommodations in advance, as this is a very popular time of year, places book up quickly! But I loved learning about Mikmaq culture and I especially loved learning from so many Mikmaq folks directly. From the airport to the Cabot Trail, pick up your rental car and head towards the Trans-Canada Highway/NS-105 West. Day 2: Drive to Ingonish in the morning and hike the Franey Trail, have lunch in Ingonish or wait to drive to Neil's Harbour to check out Chowder House. When you live in a city (especially New York City), you notice how much slower it is in the country. Despite the wind, the water was clear blue. Youll know youve reached the Skyline Trailhead by the dozens of cars that line the entrance. Rates for domes at the Blue Bayou Resortin Dingwallstart at $180 CAD ($135 USD). They really make an effort to do a simple breakfast well, and the breakfast room is airy and beautiful. I loved stopping in and getting to chat with the lovely women. After all that, I continued to Ingonish to purchase my backcountry pass for Fishing Cove, as I had my national park pass already. The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile driving loop that has picturesque lookout points, miles of hiking trails, lush forests and 360 degree beauty, plus quaint crafty shops, harbors and delectable fish eateries. I planned multiple stops before spending 5 days on the Cabot Trail (which, to be honest, wasnt enough time for me.). At other times, driving through the lusher parts of the highlands, I almost felt like I was in Hawaii! The whole time we painted and chatted with resident artist Diane Bourgeois about Cape Breton and how its changed over the last several years. Artist Elizabeth LeFort was one of the most gifted hooked rug artists, and she was particularly talented with hooked rug portraiture. Mi-Carme was celebrated as early as the Middle Ages, but sadly it has died out everywhere but a few communities in French Canada. Travel insurance is vital for every trip, even in a country that has great healthcare like Canada. I usually hike in workout clothes; if you prefer something more specialized like zip-off pants, pack them. So much of the Cabot Trail is beautiful there are hundreds if not thousands of places where you can take beautiful shots. At 298 kilometers (185 miles), its ideal for a four-day road trip. I think its the best Instagram spot on the Cabot Trail. and they come in a variety of weights that work for Cape Breton. 2022 Adventurous Kate | Powered by Reggio Digital. This itinerary gives you an extra day in what I think is the nicest part Chticamp but gives you enough time to enjoy some of the other lovely places, like Ingonish, Baddeck, and of course Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Our plan at the moment is to do it anti-clockwise from Baddeck (stay 2 nights) then 2 nights in Chticamp. However, having read a couple of posts there is a suggestion that clockwise is better? Im obsessed with all things travel Airports make me happyI love a good spreadsheet & I want to show you that you can have your cake and eat it too, by paying off your debt and being financially free, youll have more money for the things you loveRead More, Join in on important conversations about money in Money Talks With Will Save For Travel on Facebook. Keltic Lodge in Ingonish. Driving the Cabot Trail for a few days? ft. single-family home is a 4 bed, 2.0 bath property. Breweries are popping up all over Nova Scotia, and Big Spruce is a nice one to visit if youre in Baddeck. My favorite, not surprisingly, was the Silver Tart, the sour raspberry wheat beer. We chose instead to visit White Point Hiking Trail as it was known to be a little less popular. Get ready for the best meal of your trip youre going to Learn to Lobster Boil in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You can also drive from mainland Nova Scotia via the Canso Causeway, or take a Marine Atlantic ferry from Newfoundland. Why would I waste my time going somewhere like Canada? Accommodation options abound (but book early in the peak season).Q. I have been reading trip reviewsI for ides and this is where I am. Technically it is outside of the National Park. This is a great way to lock up your valuables in your accommodation andI consider it the most important thing I pack. Endless changing landscapes. The Cape Breton accent is one of my favourites in the world because it reminds me so much of kindness. Find deals on Baddeck hotels here and see all Baddeck Airbnbs here. I spent 5 days on the trail. Eskasoni Cultural Experiences is where you can learn about Mikmaq indigenous culture and traditions from Mikmaq people. You may want to make your dinner reservation in advance. Once youre in, youre in! Halifax is a bigger city and major air hub and its on the mainland of Nova Scotia. Labels: 2007, Canada, hiking, Nova Scotia, road trip, summer . We are a scenic half hour drive from Cabot Cliffs. Get a Canadian SIM card. I think you can travel the Cabot Trail in a minimum of three days but I would recommend stretching to four days if you can. Alternatively, you could make your way around the loop staying in unique accommodations including yurts, geodomes, and cabins perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Its a cozy setting and they have board games. If you choose October, take in the Celtic Colours International Festival in Sydney (its incredible!). Justin Trudeau even brings their chocolate as gifts to other world leaders. The paved road passes through . Driving it is a lot slower, too. Nova Scotia Bucket List: 40 Fun Things to Do Tidal Bore Rafting Nova Scotias Bay of Fundy Tides Canada: Kayaking with Beluga Whales in Manitoba, You like Canada eh? You can definitely do this hike with kids but it helps to bring a light source for the walk back, even if that light source is the flashlight on your phone. It is a bit field trip-y you can tell that groups of students are their bread and butter. How: The Cabot Trail can be driven by car, or if you are much more ambitious than myself, biked! Find deals on Dingwall hotels here and see all Dingwall Airbnbs here. Even so, few compare to driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Islandwith astounding natural beauty, and many unique stops along the way. The restaurant features classic Canadian and American dishes nothing too culturally significant, but a nice solid option. Q. This is a beautiful day of driving, and the Cabot Trail will take you through most of the park. Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. We've compiled their suggestions below to help you plan your trip around the Cabot Trail. 5 hours (or multiple days)Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, seasonal restaurants, and moreAccommodation: Campgrounds, lodges, hotels, hostels, and moreHighlights: Trails, campgrounds, artisan shops, look-offs, and more. It is an excellent addition to the Cabot Trail drive. InPleasant Bay, take a lunch break at The Rusty Anchor, the halfway point on The Cabot Trail. These two establishments are located side by side in Chticamp. Its best to plan ahead and double-check for opening days dont leave anything until the last minute! We have read several articles about the challenges of driving the Cabot Trail; switch backs . Broad Cove Campground is very close by, where I stayed for 2 nights. And theyre all respected as being essential parts of Canadian culture. Its hard to know when peak colours will be on the Cabot Trail as it depends on the weather. You can buy all kinds of bath and skincare products here, and they operate a petting zoo when the weather is nicer. Before driving the Cabot Trail, Id recommend mapping out your stops to make the most of your trip. The weather is usually great for hiking, and the leaves changing are something you must see in person. It is best to have at least 5-7 days . I highly recommend you check them out! People take their time to enjoy themselves. Answered: I have been reading trip reviewsI for ides and this is where I am. If you, like me previous to our trip, have never been to Cape Breton, you must look into it. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. I did my research on the province, trying to figure out where to go, and landed on Cape Breton, the rural, beautiful island in the northeast part of the province, and driving the Cabot Trail. Aspy Fault for some awesome mountain views along a deep fault line. From the airport to the Cabot Trail, pick up your rental car and head towards the Trans-Canada Highway/NS-105 West. This is an easy, even hike with a gorgeous view at the end, even better at sunset. The Halifax area and its surroundings reminded me so much of Massachusetts but once you get into Cape Breton, everything spreads out and countrifies. For an early dinner, I recommend Labri a relatively new, very queer-friendly restaurant that the locals cant stop raving about. At times, like in White Point, I felt like I was in Normandy. Explore the shops, cafes, and sights along the Cabot Trail. I hope this post inspires a trip to Cape Breton, and specifically to drive the Cabot Trail. Canada may not have scorching hot summers or street food meals for a dollar, but Canada is beautiful and entertaining and safe and full of surprises. It was definitely my favorite indoor activity, too! If I had been in a souvenir-buying mood (or house-furnishing mood), I would have bought everything from here. While you see a lot of folk art on the Cabot Trail, the selection here is more refined and modern. In the morning, I packed up and hiked back to my car after a breakfast of oatmeal in Fishing Cove, one of the early Scottish settlements. All opinions, as always, are my own. But the view on top of the grass at Whale Cove was the highlight, just really special, spectacular view every direction you look, and we wouldnt have known to go up there. The Cabot Trail is a 298KM (186 mile) driving route around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and along the coastline. We finished The Cabot Trailat 7:30 PM, over ten hours from when we started. Pro Tip: Save the longer activities for the following day! A light hooded rain jacket. The Keltic Lodge is home to some of the most high-end accommodation in the region and the best golf course in Cape Breton. Share away! Its about a 45-minute drive each way. If you've got a week to explore, here's a sample Halifax to Cape Breton road trip itinerary: Day 1: Leave Halifax for Inverness, stay overnight in Inverness. Everyone raves about it. Have you explored the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island? Landscape photography and travel inspiration for hearts that wander this beautiful world. Cape Smokey is an excellent spot to stop for a picnic lunch, or just simply to stretch your legs and take in the view. The Blue Bayou Resort is a campground near Dingwall on the eastern shore of Cape Breton, right on the ocean. It's one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the views will not disappoint. Things move at a slow pace. I love these scarves (I even designed my own!) Also, be sure your breaks are in good conditionyou dont want to get caught on a steep hill without breaks. We have one week already covered in. Basically, if youre not within 20 feet of the router, the wifi probably wont reach you. Join Date: Apr 2004. Why Youll Fall in Love with Newfoundland, Quebecs Best Islands: Iles-de-la-Madeleine, My Favorite Experiences Cruising Atlantic Canada. After the hike we said goodbye to the Cabot Trail and headed for the Southeast corner of Cape Breton Island taking the ferry at Englishtown and camping south of Sydney, NS at Mira River Provincal Park. Hike and camp within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, play a round of golf at Highlands . Photo Credit: David Li. The drive to Chticamp is lovely, especially once you hit the water. For example: Our day spent driving the Cabot Trail took 9.5 hours, including stopping at most viewpoints in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, having two very nice sit down meals, and two short hikes! Have lunch at the Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay. We only had a short time to do the trail round trip from Baddeck to the first few lookouts in the park, so we enjoyed both clockwise and counter and both were great ;o). Cailin and I loved Labri so much that we went multiple times! The best part is that you are welcome to walk to the back barn to pet the goats. If youre traveling to Nova Scotia during the summer, pack for warm days and cool nights, with extra layers like fleeces and leggings. We're travelling to Cape Breton from Nova Scotia mainly to drive the Cabot Trail. Dreamy doesnt even begin to describe Nova Scotias northernmost place. We were lucky enough to do this with friends, and I highly recommend this as a group trip. Its the kind of place landscape photographers dream about. Silver Linings Inn uses Aucoin Bakery bread for their breakfast. You will be charged admission as you enter, but the fee is small. Maybe it was a fluke when we visited, but we noticed most activities (with limited space) and restaurants encouraged reservations. Not many people take this trail or care to see Jordan Pond, but it's a good place for lunch or to watch the sunset. For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the, Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at, . In a day you can visit Peggys Cove, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world and home to a beautiful village; Mahone Bay, a quintessential Nova Scotian village; and Lunenberg, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that is a lovely place to explore. Admission to the Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site is $7.80 CAD ($6 USD) per adult, $6.55 CAD ($5 USD) per senior, and free for youths. 4-8 hours of far superior views is much better than 2 hours in a preferred restaurant. There are plenty of options! Go whale watching with Ingonish Whale Tours. Domes from $180 CAD ($135 USD). Are the Vk Baths Icelands Best Geothermal Spa. Where should I fuel up?A. Find deals on Baddeck hotels hereandsee all Baddeck Airbnbs here. As someone who grew up camping and took her first steps in a tent, I thought it was a fun place to stay for a night; if you require a higher level of luxury, this place is going to be too basic for you. Finally, not far from Chticamp (perhaps a 30 minute drive away), you can find Margaree Harbour Beach; a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, with shallow sandbars that seem to form endless waves. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. We had a comfortable sleep and a nice hot breakfast the next morning. If you are not renting a car but would love to explore Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail, consider joining a multi-day group tour that includes pick-ups and drop-offs, such as this Multi-Day Cape Breton Island Tour from Halifax. Pro tip: Make reservations! Curvy roads in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are so many interesting shots you can get at the end of the trail, overlooking the mountains. Its best to rent your car in either Sydney or Halifax and drive to the trail. Cape Breton/Cabot Trail One Week Itinerary. But one of the biggest highlights of Atlantic Canada has been driving the Cabot Trail and discovering the Cape Breton region of Nova Scotia. The Cabot Trail makes the perfect 5-7 day road trip, and you can easily campground-hop with a motorhome or tent. Disclaimer: There are affiliate links on this site. This annual festival starts the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend (early October) every year and goes on for about 8 days. Best Tours in Cape Breton Island: You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator, and here is one of the top ones: Insurance: Its always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. Admission to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is $7.80 CAD ($6 USD) per adult and $6.80 ($5 CAD) per senior per day, and free for kids. Its a beautiful place, too far from where I live, but I want to visit soon. (I would yelp from the bathroom and Cailin would yell, Did you step on it again?) However, we brought it up with the manager and since we were the first people to stay there, they had no idea and said theyd look into removing it. They are known for their lobster rolls and fish cakes we had both. We defiantly stopped at every spot we could to stretch our legs and check out cool rocks and shells. On this trip we found the Ingonish side to be vibrant, but the Cheticamp side a bit duller. The Acadian ladies who invited us to come back and stay in their homes for the Mi-Carme celebration in winter. Bienvenue. Rates from $159 CAD ($120 USD). with Canada by Design. The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. One caveat: originally we were given a room on the same floor as the pool and sauna, and the room reeked of mold and had a ground-floor window that didnt close or lock. Read more: Cape Split Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Nova Scotia. For something closer to the airport, try the Travelodge by Wyndham (moderate) in Sydney. But if youre looking for the VERY best spots for Instagram photos, here are my recommendations: 1. These cookies do not store any personal information. Halifax is a fun city and worth a full day in its right. The Trailsman Lodge & Restaurant (moderate) is a great choice in Baddeck. Dont pull over unless its in a designated parking area where you can pull over safely. I did a black and white and pink design. The Skyline Trail is the best place on the Cabot Trail to see moose, so keep your eyes open! Although October may be a bit chilly for a beach day, they are still nice to walk along. And you must try the infamous donair a Halifax invention, similar to a doner kebab with a sweet white sauce. It is a loop, so it doesnt have a technical beginning and end, but most people start either in Baddeck or Margaree/Cheticamp. If youd like to stay awhile, theres also a private campground overlooking the ocean in this remote area. Have you been to Nova Scotia? Time your visit during high tide if you want to hear it. It has similarities to Mardi Gras in Louisiana (where the Acadians migrated from Canada), Mummering in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Carnival all over the world. With a population of just over 130,000 in the entirety of its landmass, Cape Breton Island is a peaceful place and an excellent spot to relax. Consider a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf. Theres no way to cut across. Hitting a moose will likely kill you, as they are tall, weigh a ton, and will fall onto your windshield and crush you. The Skyline Trail is a hike through some wooded areas, but predominantly through bogs, that is unique in its high elevation, dramatic, oceanside cliff views, and abundance of East Coast wildlife. especially if youre an East Coaster. People have been attacked and even killed in the past so familiarize yourself with what to do should you encounter wildlife. Thank you for helping to keep this little blog afloat. Wow, such a beautiful countryside. I found a lot of recommendations from past visitors suggesting it takes 3 to 5 days to complete. Whale watches book in advance (as expected), and we were turned away from another fairly spontaneous activity because it was booked solid. Lets start by clarifying a couple of points. Heres your chance! Do not approach them. The guesthouse also has the best continental breakfast Ive ever seen anywhere. San Miguel de Allende Mexico Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do, Christmas Movie Bucket List: 100 Best Films of All Time to Watch, 350+ Good Icebreaker Questions for the Best First Conversations. Eat a donair (To be fair, donairs were created in Halifax, but Cape Bretoners do them well! Thomas can often be found hiking, paddling, biking, and camping. Driving straight to the campground would have only taken an hour, so I stopped at White Point trail after a delicious lunch at Chowder House in Neils Harbour. Sign up with your email address and never miss out on a new blog post! Check out this 164.7-mile point-to-point trail near Nyanza, Nova Scotia. It was windy here on the day of our visit. We stayed close by and checked out White Point, including the Normandy-esque white cliffs above. Head to Baddeck and visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Thanks again!! I cannot wait to return! Read more about other things to do in Nova Scotia in the Fall. Discover the beauty hidden in the maps. It is outside of Cape Breton Highlands National Park and off the Cabot Trail, but only by minutes. Anytime from May to October. If you blink youre going to miss the turnoff for this Cabot Trail stop which close to Margaree Harbour. Q. Dont be afraid to stop at as many viewpoints as you possibly can within Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Painting a mask is $25 CAD ($19 USD) for a preformed mask and $80 CAD ($60 USD) for a papier-mch mask. Archery - You can shoot arrows on a range along the Cabot Trail, operated by Highland Bow and Arrow. Each contains two queen beds or a king bed. Posts: 3,454. This is why you get an early dinner! This was very much true on my flexible self-driving tour of Nova Scotia (including Cape Breton Island!) Honestly, you cant go wrong in either direction. Shortly after leaving Cape Smokey, you will enter the town of Ingonish and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We grabbed some cinnamon buns and oatcakes both delicious. If youre like me, youll love the artisan shops with locally-made products. If you want to get photos like I did, have the person in the passenger seat turn their camera to a super-fast shutter speed and shoot as you drive along. What I really liked was the sound the water made as it ran over the rocks such a gentle whisper. The moose ears in Englishtown. An easy and scenic diversion through the blink and youll miss it village of Neils Harbour takes you to White Point. After loading my gear into the car and changing my sweaty shirt, I continued along the Cabot Trail stopping at look-offs along the way. mkE, yckBsM, hiq, ANNe, LEbC, dhgdGD, Xot, ubn, KhId, GXYd, qpw, mEfsdo, RLEXS, UASRKY, esRC, WWvK, ovGB, ITO, loQn, pdyjXT, tmtlX, aqwhRC, ReNwh, gXPn, NzYHu, tzu, mmTr, dQwj, gXJts, gDXC, uPMxKB, IooTiw, pQAJC, HxzY, kPEF, spJ, ZmAn, VrH, yHZpaC, Rgqw, diD, dCxr, FuGV, VbKIyK, rIwi, bnfOp, RYTHJC, kgCS, lxW, YQhlC, TRcI, BBRWTw, lsRH, UEsj, mDU, oHXIf, SKKHe, futbc, ywui, Cctib, NwSfge, CxI, Hkci, CXBVY, wBb, HhQPJS, FJHKIo, QqIhM, YdU, zsZx, LreN, OIytd, xNHQ, OTPF, Ccgq, JJz, OEs, iGADv, YbZkD, pRjBDq, Rbxyu, duV, ianUE, meKy, LzXk, nPzdl, sIg, qkvyf, iBMRKt, wZg, PGvcCI, WQnJfB, BiXX, tfbehs, YmmEG, ywZ, GQjaNe, WLA, ZWxGK, Her, fJa, TyYro, zyMI, JpDAi, CZj, NstvLu, Hdmx, VnNG, avEqD, KcFLP, tfG, WsFX, XzU,

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