What is the best way to travel around the Cabot Trail? At 298 kilometers (185 miles), it's ideal for a four-day road trip. We will just pass throughstop if we see something interesting. Whether you visit before or after cruising the Cabot Trail, heres how to spend a day in Halifax, Nova Scotia. You can definitely drive the Cabot Trail in one day. Our main reason for coming to Cape Breton was to drive the world-famous Cabot Trail; a scenic highway that measures 297 kilometres and forms a loop around the northern tip of the island. We picked up very yummy sandwiches from Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay for a picnic lunch on the Skyline Trail. Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, starting from Baddeck or the Trans Canada Highway, this will give you time for some stops. 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). We also saw a female moose near the parking lot! Baddeck to Louisbourg is 1 hour and 20 minutes each way. 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. If you have time, we really enjoyed the short hike to Uisge Ban Falls, which is just a 15-minute drive inland from downtown. It is a loop, so it doesn't have a technical beginning and end, but most people start either in Baddeck or Margaree/Cheticamp. Here are some of my favorites: The most beautiful winding roads. Hotels near Bog Trail, Ingonish on Tripadvisor: Find 3,452 traveller reviews, 1,898 candid photos, and prices for 12 hotels near Bog Trail in Ingonish, Canada. The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip - Trips to Uncover on October 17, 2021, My name is Michelle. Read on to get inspired about how to make the most of a short trip around the picturesque trail. The Cabot Trail is mainly a scenic drive. If you have just a day to explore, I personally recommend an early morning start to minimize traffic and have some of the scenic lookouts all to yourself. You can be in a fog one minute and emerge into the sunshine the next. However, the word "scenic" is a bit misleading. There are pros and cons to both, and neither is the best way to explore the trail - just another option to see an absolutely stunning island route! Both sit on a strip of land on a high bluff that juts out into the ocean. North River Kayak Tours 4. The World Famous Cabot Trail! Other areas of the drive are heavily forested with old-growth trees. Our first glimpse of the dramatic Cape Breton coast on the Cabot Trail. Guaranteed Whales is nice enough to give back 25% of the price charged if no whales are seen. While they look goofy in photos, these are strong, sturdy, agile animals who wont hesitate to protect their young and should never be approached. In major towns, like Baddeck, Cheticamp, and Margaree, there are several restaurants to choose from. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25397945', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Sydney or Louisbourg it is better to take Hwy 4 then 104 along the south east shore of the Bras d'Or Lakes and through St Peter's. Echoing the oceanside coastline comparable to that of Maine, Breton Island offers seaside views with dramatic cliffsides that one could only dream of. Congratulations on your decision to visit Cape Breton's famous Cabot Trail! Savor this time by including a hike to a waterfall or spend a few moments at a scenic overlook. How long does the drive take? Dont be scared driving the Cabot Trail is a very relaxing and easy drive! Named after Italian explorer John Cabot, who landed on these shores in 1497, the winding coastal route climbs from sea-swept beaches and sleepy fishing villages to forested slopes and cliff . And you would really be missing out! It travels for over 300 kilometers along the island's northern tip, passing through the Cape Breton Highlands. Whichever direction you choose, you need to be aware of a few essential facts: According to the Cabot Trail tourism map, available at Nova Scotia welcome centers and various museums and merchants on Cape Breton Island, the entire Cabot Trail drive takes approximately five hours. The (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? While it might seem like a lot to hike, there are plenty of ways to break up the journey, including multi-day tours and guided hikes. Driving in Ireland: What You Need to Know, 10 Top Road Trip Routes in the Northeastern US, The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Canada, Cape Cod National Seashore: The Complete Guide, What to See and Do in Crater Lake National Park, The Complete Guide to Driving Maui's Road to Hana. Technically, you can drive the full Cabot Trail in one day, however, we gave ourselves a bit more time in order to explore the national park, do some hiking . Everyone tells you that you should plan for 3 to 5 days on the Cabot Trail - a 185 mile drive around the tip of Cape Breton Nova Scotia passing along and through the scenic Cape Breton Highlands. At most public ceilidhs, admission and concessions are cash only. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. 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. Here are some helpful tips for those considering one or the other, or maybe even both. But, you'll likely miss out on some cool hikes and highlights. The average rate is $33/night with an $11 reservation fee, plus a $16 daily admission fee for two adults. 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. However, the word scenic is a bit misleading. . If your top priority is to stay in only one place then Baddeck makes sense but you will spend a lot of time driving back and forth and won't be able to squeeze in as much as you can by moving around. The following include flush toilets, shower, oTENTiks - so minimal camping gear is needed. 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. The next day head north through Cheticamp into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park where you can take in a hike like the "Skyline Trail" and a whale watching trip out of Pleasant bay. Bedrooms 6. Okso I have made the loops and stopped here and there, seen the Fort.and it is time to make my way back to Hailifax and fly out. The Cabot Trail is well-marked, easy to drive, and filled with tons of attractions. Heed the call of the ocean and join a kayak tour . From here, walk along Water Street for great views of the harbour and all of the boats. Find a local radio station and listen to the island's music. The Cabot Trail also goes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a superb hiking destination. However, it wouldn't be much fun. If you would like to drive the Cabot Trail clockwise, you can follow my guide in reverse. This isn't just a pretty drive, but rather one of the most famed roads in the world, renowned for its views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Breton highlands. My first thought was to go your route so that I could see a bit of that, but have not had a lot of responses about it. This isnt just a driving route its also a lifeline that connects dozens of small towns and even smaller villages. The next day head north through Cheticamp into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park where you can take in a hike like the "Skyline Trail" and a whale watching trip out of Pleasant bay. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. I recommend 3-4 days for driving the Cabot Trail, depending on how much you want to see and if you want to take your time. Then head toward Meat Cove Campground for views that youll never forget. The Cabot Trail is a 298KM (186 mile) driving route around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and along the coastline. Which way should you drive around the Cabot Trail? I highly recommend staying here or at any Airbnb on the ocean! English isnt the only language spoken in communities along the Cabot Trail and its definitely not the only language youll see on the signage! Drive 3h 5m. Of all the words in all these languages, theres just one thats essential to know during your road trip: ceilidh. While this direction is less popular (it's billed as the direction for the brave driver), it may be easier to handle if you dislike slow traffic, as fewer people travel counter-clockwise. If you plan totake a walk or hike, bring insect repellentand use it liberally. Also, approximate time to drive from Baddeck to Louisbourg Fortress? For instance, a common starting point is the town of Baddeck. If youre planning a trip to Nova Scotia, here are 10 important things you should know about driving the Cabot Trail. Highly recommend it! Reasons to Travel the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia There are so many reasons to travel the Cabot Trail. You do notwant your brakes to fail on one of the 13 percent grades. This would give you time for a few stops along the way. The Cabot Trail is one of the world's most scenic drives, here's what you can do, and where to stay, if you're planning a weekend there or more. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Stellarton-New Glasgow, an IHG Hotel, Liscombe Lodge Resort and Conference Center. I think that the Fort and possibly a performance that evening will be our lasts things to do on CBI before returning to the main island and our (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You should have no difficulty driving from Halifax to Cheticamp in under six hours, with no dawdling along the way. After marching on the rocks and rough sand, we took the chance to relax a bit on the cool gravel beach. Therefore, its no surprise that its on so many travelers bucket lists. Date Listed 11/22/2022. Nancy Parode is a freelance travel writer who has lived abroad three times. I created this space to inspire your future trips through my own recommendations. Navigating around the Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia Cape Breton Island is easily accessible by Land, Sea or Air Travelling By Land Cape Breton Island is linked to mainland Nova Scotia by the Canso Causeway, a mile-long road and railway system that is part of the Trans Canada Highway. You can often buy small concessions like soda or coffee on site, and many ceilidhs include a tea or lunch midway in the evening. Make your first stop in Dingwall at The Markland Coastal Beach Cottages for a great view. This inland town is flat and miles from the sea, and life here is centered around the Bras dOr Lakes. Cabot Trail in Cape Breton How long does it take to go around the Cabot Trail? The room was average, and the hotel definitely needs updating. The Coastal Trail is long so it'd be in your best interest to walk to Squeaker's Hole, explore the area . Pronounced kay-lee, this is the Gaelic word for a social gathering or kitchen party, and its a word youll hear a lot of along the Cabot Trail, no matter what language youre speaking! Margaree Harbour and villages in the Margaree River valley, for fishing, the Salmon Museum, and water sports, Chticamp, 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, Baddeck, for the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, golf and summer ceilidhs (Celtic music and dance events). Enjoy the views, a beer, and a stretch of your legs at Big Spruce. It is another beautiful trail! The Cabot Trail makes a 185-mile (297-kilometer) loop around a sizeable chunk of the island, passing through Cape Breton Highlands National Park at its northernmost point. We stayed in a private room at an Airbnb in Cheticamp that was right on the ocean. There are so many beautiful sights to see and outdoor activities. For the full Cabot Trail experience, you should set aside 3-5 days or plan to spend at minimum an entire day. Some of the more popular Cabot Trail stops include: If you have extra time, plan to drive up to Cabot's Bay (the presumed site of John Cabot's landing in 1497) and Bay St. Lawrence. You can definitely drive the Cabot Trail in one day. The Cabot Trail is a highway and scenic roadway in northern Victoria County and Inverness County on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. Another popular hike near here is the Franey Trail, which has incredible views from the top of a mountain. A. Don't rush your trip. If you want to read more opinions about the pros and cons of taking on the Cabot Trail in both directions, the tourism board surveyed its staff to get their personal recommendations, which you can read here. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. The Kintyre Farm Outdoor Scottish Concert on Sunday, August 15 at Kintyre Farm on River Denys Road at 3pm would be worth attending but I'm not sure I would plan my whole time in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? As mentioned, we left the Cabot Trail Road and went to Inverness. Once they finish the 298km route, they will . 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. If you're flying into Nova Scotia, you'll most likely land in Halifax. Pack your patience. 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. Finally, youll find Scottish Gaelic around the routes center and eastern areas. The Cabot Trail is 298 kilometers long and technically you could drive it in under 5 hours, if you drove non-stop. Today youll drive part of the Cabot Trail Road that you drove yesterday. . The music you will get at the Judique on the Floor Festival (12-15 August) will be no better than the music you will get everywhere around the island. I would suggest visiting in the Summer and Fall months. We stayed at Knotty Pine Cottages in Ingonish Harbour and I highly recommend staying here. Margaree River. From there we stayed in Port Hood, which was lovely. Driving around the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You could easily spend several days along the route, enjoying slow travel at its finest. Cyclists and yes, there are many hearty, experienced souls who bike the Cabot Trail prefer going clockwise in order to benefit from the prevailing winds on the west side. In short, the Cabot Trail is more diverse than you might think! 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. Breakfast was included and it was pretty good! The trail itself can be driven in one day but the question remains - why would anyone want to do it in a day? To enter the National Park, you need to pay a fee of $7.50 a day (as of 2020). Do we need to reserve a place ahead of time at the Louisburg playhouse? The next day finish off the Trail and head for the Sydney Louisbourg area where you would spend the next day doing the cape Breton Miner's Museum in Glace bay, followed by the Fortress of Louisborg. You cannot cut across the center of Cape Breton Island. The Cabot Trail is a scenic roadway 298km (or 186 miles) long that circles around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Drive from Antigonish to Cabot Trail 190.4 km. We had a delicious lunch at High Wheeler Cafe. No matter which route you take, youre in for an amazing drive! On our first day driving the Cabot Trail, we drove from Pictou, Nova Scotia, so we arrived at our first stop on the trail at midday. After whale watching we went back to Rusty Anchor for a delicious lunch overlooking the ocean. According to the Cabot Trail tourism map, available at Nova Scotia welcome centers and various museums and merchants on Cape Breton Island, the entire Cabot Trail drive takes approximately five hours. A number of local outfitters also operate whale watching boat rides. Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park, Baddeck 3. 5 hours (or multiple days) Food: Grocery stores, farmer's markets, seasonal restaurants, and more Accommodation: Campgrounds, lodges, hotels, hostels, and more Highlights: Trails, campgrounds, artisan shops, look-offs, and more Q. Your first stop should be the historic Keltic Lodge at the Cape Breton Highlands Links golf course and the Middle Head Trail. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. In smaller areas, like St. Anns and Ingonish, youll likely find just one or two choices open year-round. The Cabot Trail Road in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia is an infamous loop road with beautiful scenery on Canadas beautiful east coast. 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. Head toward the Neil Harbour Lighthouse for some ice cream (served in the lighthouse!). ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25373652', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cabot Trail is likely your farthest destination, so l always say plan the time so you have at least an extra day to play with when on Cape Breton . Before finding a home with TheTravel, her focus was indie publications and she has been published with Bolde, The Arts Fuse, The Silver Tongue, LI Pulse, Tattooed Heroine Magazine, and more. Stay the second night somewhere like Cape North or Dingwall. We are a scenic half hour drive from Cabot Cliffs. Choose the best weather days available to make this trip. Slow down to the posted speed, even if you are an expert driver and the sun is shining. Photo Credit: David Li You may also findthat the stunning coastal scenery and the gentle allure of local museums and shops might takemore time than planned. How long to spend on the Cabot Trail? Driving it is a lot slower, too. It has amazing views of both sides of the ocean. After many travels during a B.A. Nearby grocery stores include Kroger, Harps Food Store, and Walmart Grocery Pickup & Delivery. in English Literature and foray through digital marketing, her life path was made abundantly clear. If you plan to pause for meals, hikes or sightseeing beyond the occasional photo stop, you will need to allow an entire day, at a minimum, to drive the Cabot Trail. Cabot Trail: How To Plan A Road Trip On Nova Scotia's Most Beautiful Island Roadway, A post shared by Sandbar Restaurant & Lounge (@sandbarrestaurant), A post shared by Julie-Anne Gagne (@juulieanneg), A post shared by Bobbie Marquette (@bmcharmedforfun), A post shared by Adam Cornick (@acorn_art_photography), A post shared by daphneecamus (@daphneecamus), A post shared by Knotty pine cottages (@knottypinecottages), A post shared by True North Destinations (@truenorthdestinations), A post shared by Keltic Lodge at The Highlands (@kelticlodge), This Nova Scotia Island Is Free To Explore, But Not For The Faint-Hearted, 10 Beautiful Towns On New York's Hudson River Worth Visiting, Least Populated West Virginia Towns & Their Best Attractions, Beyond The Grand Canyon: 10 Incredible Places To Visit In Arizona, Maison Fiset House Inn / Contact for rates, HI-Hostel / Call for pricing and reservations, Mountain View Motel & Cottages / $84/night, True North Destinations / Starting at $250/night, Meat Cove Campground (scenic cliffside views, see above campground pricing), Keltic Lodge at the Highlands / Starting at $339/night, rates dependent on room option, 20 Acre Woods Bed and Breakfast / $102/night, Cabot Shores (wildernessresort and retreat center) / $115/night, Inverary Resort and Spa / Starting at $128/night. Pay attention as you enter and exit the scenic look-off areas. In the peak summer months and during the autumn Celtic Colours festival season, you might not get your first-choice accommodations unless you book in advance. Along the way youll probably spot signs in Mikmaq, an indigenous language, too. Those who choose to visit Highlands National Park can also opt to spend the night at a campsite there, making the visit very affordable. We went with Guaranteed Whales and although we had an amazing boat ride and saw some seals, we ironically did not any whales. This charming brewery is on the Trans Canada Highway 105, just before it connects to the Cabot Trail Road. However, while the most famous part of the Cabot Trail is indeed the oceanside drive along the highlands, thats just one portion of the adventure. This time you can just cruise and not stop for photos! For this article, I will focus on the most popular and must-see hike, the Skyline trail. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25369436', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cabot Trail..from say, Baddeck to Baddeck? I highly recommend driving up to Neils Harbour, youll stop by some amazing lookouts on your way. Nova Scotia's roads are, for the most part, well-maintained. Leaving from either (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? In the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail is a picturesque road. Cabot Trail in a Day. Unless you really want to go to Baddeck or say Iona in the middle of the island, you can come on the Island, Travel 19 and 219 all along the coast , loop into Margaree for a few hours or stay in that area , then head into the Highlands park, loop the Trail over to the Englishtown ferry, then over to Sydney /Louisburg /Glace Bay for a stay and then off the Island on Route 4. this gives you several opportunities to slow down but also catch up and see all the high spots . It is a frequent entry on top 10 lists of the most beautiful driving routes in the world and is a favorite for the top slot on many best drives in Canada roundups. Bring appropriate clothing and be ready for abrupt changes. Dispose of all trash in covered, designated containers, particularly in the national park. The posted speed limits, particularly on sharp curves, are not meant to be mere suggestions. However, Cape Breton Island is made up of mountains covered in trees, so the drive would have been incredible later in the fall when the leaves change colour. 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. Due to overcast weather, my pictures dont do it justice! The Cabot Trail is about 300 km (185 miles) and loaded with scenic viewpoints, so it's not one you'd want to rush. Use extra caution if you are driving the Cabot Trail in fog, mist, or rain, all of which are common on Cape Breton Island. Once you begin this drive, you have to finish it, either by completing the loop or by turning around and retracing your path. Welcome to this recently built 3-bedroom ocean side, cliff-top vacation home located on the Cabot Trail within 10 minutes of the restaurants, shops and the Le Portage Golf Course in Cheticamp and close to the Skyline Trail. The Cabot Trail is popular with bird watchers and, while not common, bears, wolves, coyotes, and foxes are sometimes seen on the route. Better brace yourself for an opinionated answer before you quiz a local! Many drivers do not survive direct encounters with these large animals. Today is the first day that youll really start to experience the gorgeous scenery and landscape of Cape Bretons coastline. On Cape Breton, you need time for a few side trips as well, like to roam the Margaree Valley or to go to Meat Cove. We are however 75 & 80 years old. Ideally, it is best to have at least 3 days to enjoy what the Cabot Trail has to offer. Shot on a #GooglePixel XL on Oct. 21 and Oct. 22 (49:08 and on), 2017, in #CapeBreton, #NovaScotia. Watch for moose. If you plan and get an early start, you will still be able to complete your drive before sunset. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Parts of it are, but not all. There are bears and other garbage-loving animals on Cape Breton Island. This gives you access to the park and all of the hikes! Sewer Private Sewer. 11 Fabulous Free Things To Do In Venice, Italy, 7 Fascinating Experiences In New Mexicos Hidden-Gem National Monument, 6 Alaska Towns That Make The Last Frontier First In Holiday Cheer, Why A Tour Of This Private Island In Nova Scotia Sells Out In Minutes, 11 Adorable Small Towns To Visit On Nova Scotias Southern Coast, Why Scallop Lovers Need This Quaint Canadian Town On Their Bucket List, 7 Reasons To Explore Stunning Peggys Cove, Nova Scotia, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, Hosteling International property in Pleasant Bay, how to spend a day in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I am just trying to get a fix on time . not that I plan to do it this way. It's advised that you give yourself at least 8 hours to drive around the Cabot Trail. $35 - $55. It is well worth a stop here to see the scenic area and experience the warm hospitality. The Cabot Trail is one of the most popular Canada destinations and one of the best-known driving routes in the world. Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you travel clockwise. The Cabot Trail is considered to be one of the best places for a cycling tour in all of North America and on the 'must do' list of many a serious biker. 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. This winding road spans roughly 186 miles and encompasses the entire northern half of the island. Below is the itinerary we followed, covering the trails, the very essential cafe breaks and a few unique little stop offs. At 185 miles, the Cabot Trail is longer than most people think. On this day we had delicious avocado toast for breakfast in Ingonish at Main Street Restaurant. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park lies along the Cabot Trail, providing world class hiking. Going counter-clockwise, head north from Baddeck for 20 kms on the Trans-Canada, and then the Trail starts properly at the turn-off for the Gaelic College. This is a buffet of coffee, tea, sweets, and sometimes light sandwiches and is especially common at ceilidhs designed as community fundraisers. Only on the Cabot Trail itself are the speeds a little lower, and even there the limit is usually 80 km/h. Although whale watching was cancelled due to high winds, we decided to drive up to that area anyway and Im so glad that we did we saw some of our favourite scenery! We ended up rescheduling whale watching to today so we woke up and drove back to Pleasant Bay. Long Weekend On The Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail cuts right through the park, and you will not be able to avoid paying the fee to use the road. I recommend 3-4 days for driving the Cabot Trail, depending on how much you want to see and if you want to take your time. Since the Cabot Trail snakes its way around a majority of the island, it's easy enough to find good accommodations depending on a variety of budgets. Hit the Cabot Trail Road and make your way toward Ingonish. Thanks for the advice on the Judique festival as well. The patio overlooked the water, which was nice. My personal opinion for "doing" Cape Breton, particularly if you want to take in all the attractions it has to offer, is to stay in . Her blog, TurnipseedTravel, focuses on cozy, affordable travel adventures and was named one of the 100 most influential travel blogs in the world by the White House in 2014. Called the beginning and the end of the 185-mile Cabot Trail loop, Baddeck is your perfect jumping-off point for this iconic Canadian drive. You could also drive the last stretch of the Cabot Trail Road and end up back where you started. I'd suggest 2-3 days, th Your first choice will be to either drive around St. Ann's Bay or take the ferry in Englishtown. There is a ceilidh almost every night of the week somewhere on the west coast of Cape Breton (http://www.invernessco.ca) . Soon we saw signs for Hopewell Rocks. WHEN TO VISIT THE CABOT TRAIL. Awesome.thanks for that tip. Shop for Cape Breton quilts, fine art, even an antique. Take your time, especially on blind curves. The Cabot Trail is considered one of the world's most scenic destinations, with stunning ocean vistas, old-growth forests, prehistoric rock scarred by glacie. You can always leap from Cape Breton to a destination on the mainland even say to Lunenburg leaving from say to Sydney with a 6 hour trip. The route measures 298 km (185 mi) in length and completes a loop around the northern tip of the island, passing along and through the Cape Breton Highlands. It is really hard to tell these things when looking at a map. It is named for explorer John Cabot, and early explorer in 1497shortly after Columbus chose the Caribbean . You can take a whale watching trip here (allow two to three hours) or enjoy the maritime scenery. What is the actual driving time to do the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Cabot Trail, however, has sections that could stand to be completely repaved. How long is the Cabot Trail from Baddeck to Louisbourg? The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. We also got some seafood chowder at the infamous Chowder House, which was so delicious but very overpriced for the size. Add this to your five hour drive time to determine when you should begin your Cabot Trail adventure. If you crash into one, the best you can expect is an extended hospital stay. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25369902', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cabot Trail from Baddeck to Baddeck is about 3 3/4 to 4 hours of driving time. The world famous Cabot Trail is a scenic drive everyone should take the time to do at least once in their lifetime. There are many answers, and we've compiled the best suggestions to help you plan your next trip. Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, Baddeck 2. That first trip is what ignited a lifelong passion, and it's one that continues to be fueled through pen and paper Or, in this case, a keyboard and a computer screen. Theres even a Hosteling International property in Pleasant Bay! But in smaller villages, the selection is understandably limited and in the off-season, restaurants may be closed or only open part-time. I suggest travelling Cape Breton in one large loop, turning left when you come on to the Island and going up Hwy 19/219 along the "Ceilidh Trail" first. Our cabin was so cute, very clean, and it had everything we needed. For dinner in Cheticamp we went to the Doryman Pub, which was okay. Next up is a must-do on the Cabot Trail: the Skyline Trail hike. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. This isnt just a pretty drive, but rather one of the most famed roads in the world, renowned for its views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Breton highlands. For more information on what we did before and after the Cabot Trail, check out my blog post, The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip., Pingback: The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway in the northern part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. For dinner, The Freight Shed is a must the Haddock Parisienne Vin Blanc was delicious. We saw some incredible sunset views on the way to our accommodations in Ingonish Harbour. Additionally, there is great Celtic music at the Louisbourg Playhouse every night of the week and at the Gaelic College at St Ann's every Wednesday night. The loop drive is 298km (186mi) long. Note that if you have a seafood allergy or prefer vegetarian dining, youll want to scope out your options well before you travel. On Cape Breton Island, a ceilidh can be a casual affair of neighbors gathering for music and drinks at home or a more-organized event at a community center, church hall, or cafe with a slate of musicians, a host, and a small admission fee. This winding road spans roughly 186 miles and encompasses the entire northern half of the island. To get the best weather and leave colour changing. Answer 1 of 5: Hi all, my husband and I (both early 50s) are thinking of taking a trip next year, first 2 weeks in Oct. We have never visited the area and as we are travelling from the UK, we want to see as much as we can but without overstretching ourselves, just. You will now be entering the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You could spend the first night somewhere between Mabou and the Margaree Harbour area where, virtually any night of the week, you can find a local "ceilidh". Put on some sunscreen, too. From June to mid-October, the Whale Interpretive Centre is open and kids, in particular, will love seeing the life-size model of a giant pilot whale, plus a tank of live sea creatures. Some other places I heard good things about are Coastal Restaurant, and Salty Roses & the Periwinkle Cafe, which looked super cute. The Cabot Trail is located on the island of Cape Breton in stunning Nova Scotia. If you are driving your own car, be sure the brakes are in good shape before attempting this drive. Visitors to Cape Breton can explore the trail in a number of ways, with the two most popular options being by car and by foot (hiking). There are potholes, bumpy cold-patched areas and gravelly spots along the way. It is considered one of the best road trips in the world. Parks near 40 Arbor Trl include Cabot Veterans Park Community Center, Cabot Parks & Recreation, and Cabot Park. MacKenzie Mountain Lookout 11. This hike was one of my favourite moments on our trip. This also means a more gradual climb along Cape Smokey. A short drive farther up the hill to find Fundy's Cape Enrage yielded great views. But many travelers with a flexible itinerary must choose between going clockwise, which means your car is hugging the interior of the road against the forest and rock face, or counterclockwise, which means your car is on the exterior lane of the road closest to the ocean, the scenic lookouts, and the plunging cliffs. Called the beginning and the end of the 300-kilometre Cabot Trail loop, Baddeck is your perfect jumping-off point for this iconic Nova Scotia scenic drive. Build some time into your itinerary for unexpected stops, slow meal service, and traffic issues. The trail passes through many charming communities, each with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable hospitality. During the height of summer, the sun didn't set until well after 9:00 pm, so we could take our time exploring the 7.5 km loop beginning at 7pm. Is it best ot go down 105 or to fo down 4/104 to get back to the main island? The weather on Cape Breton Island can vary from moment to moment. This age-old debate has left many conflicted, including neighbours, friends, and visitors alike. YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Newfoundland's Northern Arm: Viking Trail Road Trip You may be tempted to drive the Cabot Trail in just one day since it's only 298km in length, but I strongly advise against this! Since this will be a good drive along the lake (and my husband is quite partial to eagles and loves to photograph them) is there a spot along that route 4 that is particularly good for eagles? Lot Size 4,792 SQFT. The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip., A Guide to Huntsville, Ontario in the Fall, The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip, A Perfect Week in Banff and Jasper, Alberta, The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip - Trips to Uncover, A Complete Guide to the Amalfi Coast, Italy, 10 Things to Do in Niagara Region, Ontario. The Cabot Trail is located on the island of Cape Breton in stunning Nova Scotia. Here, you can travel to a . 2 Here is a map of the Cabot Trail: 3 10 things to see and do while on this scenic road: 4 1) Stop at the Clucking Hen Cafe. However, a lot of people recommend that you take three or even five days to complete the trail. This is a very popular attraction, however we chose not to visit. You never know when you will come upon an accident. Tips for making the most of your coastal island road trip. We have read several articles about the challenges of driving the Cabot Trail; switch backs . The Margaree region, on Cape Breton's west side, features beautiful farmland and green valleys. Do you know anything about the Judique on the Floor festival. It passes through Cape Brenton Highlands and Highlands National Park. You can do this drive in as little as 5 hours, but that would mean no stops, no overlooks, no hikes, and no cute little towns. Thanksthese are very good suggestions. The island itself is home to more things than could fit in a single week, so for those looking to get the most out of their island activities, driving is definitely the way to go. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. After we had lunch we headed to Margaree Harbour, another beautiful coastal beach town. It winds along the northern tip of the island for about 185 miles. MLS# S5077637. I also heard great things about Toms Pizza, Baddeck Lobster Suppers, and Captain Capers Fish and Chips. Visitors to Cape Breton can explore the trail in a number of ways, with the two most popular options being by car and by foot (hiking). The park ranger will give you a map of the park, marked with trails, picnic areas, and sites of interest. We drove the Cabot Trail in mid-September, which was a perfect time to visit as the weather was still lovely and it was hardly busy. Days On Market 9 Days. We drove the Cabot Trail in a counter clockwise direction starting in Baddeck and ending in Cheticamp. Depending on where you are coming from to start your journey on the Cabot Trail, you might be able to do more on this day but this is what we had time for. Above all, take your time and enjoy the experience. Moose are common along the Cabot Trail, especially the portion of the drive that goes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. On our way back to Ingonish, we stopped at Black Brook Cove Beach where you can see a waterfall on the cliff. Many people tackle the 185 mile Cabot Trail scenic drive as a daytrip, starting at one of the more southern towns and . First things first, decide how much time you have to explore the Cabot Trail. Centres and our Contact Centre what their recommendations are to experience the best of Cape Breton Island's famous Cabot Trail. Reward yourself with a delicious treat from Aucoin Bakery in Petit Etang and continue on to Cheticamp for the night. Nova Scotia's harsh winters and summer tourists' vehicles take their toll on the Cabot Trail. I still highly recommend getting out on the water if you have time! Its a great budget option but I would have rather stayed in one of the cute bed and breakfasts in the downtown area for slightly more money. 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). If you are camping, be sure to secure your food so bears cannot reach it. You won't be sorry; in fact, you'll wish you'd planned more time for the Cabot Trail. Whether youre doing the Cabot Trail in one day or several, make some time for Pleasant Bay. And some people do end up driving the entire trail in one day, finishing the full 185 mile-loop (298 km). They also have a food truck and beer for purchase! We discovered that the Coastal Trail starts/ends here, so we did a quick hike just before sunset, which took us to the top of the waterfall and along the cliffs. The 3.8 kilometre pathway winds through a shaded forest before emerging along the coastline, and ends at an incredible lookout point where you're surrounded by shimmering blue water and craggy cliffsides. . The Airbnb is a log home owned by a very friendly older woman who has adorable rescued cats. Most people like to hike the Skyline Trail at sunset but we went in the afternoon and it was still incredible! If you like hiking, you could spend even longer driving the Cabot Trail as there are many beautiful hiking trails. If you do see a moose, stop and wait for it to go away. The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, so you can plan your route accordingly. The town of Cheticamp is one of the largest French settlements in Nova Scotia. The perfect spot for sunset. We decided to end our time on the Cabot Trail Road here and went to beautiful Inverness, which I highly recommend. We loved the backyard and private beach, especially at sunset. Another 1/3 of the way is two-lane undivided highway with a 100 km/h limit. The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway in the northern part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Keep an eye out for the community of St. Anns, home to the Gaelic College, which provides programming about the Gaelic language, music, dance, and crafts. The winter months are cold, it gets dark early, and most places are closed. If you like hiking, you could spend even longer driving the Cabot Trail as there are many beautiful hiking trails. You could spend the first night somewhere between Mabou and the Margaree Harbour area where, virtually any night of the week, you can find a local "ceilidh". You can find a comprehensive list of Cabot Trail restaurants here, including information on hours of operation and menu choices. The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. Subdivision STONEYBROOK SOUTH NORTH PRCL PH. There is a Parks Canada booth on the Cabot Trail Road at both ends of the park (the other end is in Petit Etang) where you can purchase a Parks Canada pass for the duration of your stay within the park boundaries. Staff at the park can advise on the best wildlife viewing areas. Not stopping except to do a lookover and then going on. Along the way, there are plenty of attractions, including beaches, community shops, museums, churches, and special events including festivals, concerts, and more. Fans of Ireland and Scotland love visiting Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail because the rolling green hills look so familiar to what youll see on the other side of the ocean. This is easy if you plan to drive theloop in one day, but becomes more difficult if you are spending a couple of days on the Trail. We were supposed to go whale watching on this day in Bay St Lawrence, which is off the Cabot Trail Road at the northern tip of Cape Breton Island. If you are hopping on the Cabot Trail road at the south end, I highly recommend stopping at Big Spruce Brewing. There are literallyhundredsof things to do on Breton Island at any one time, but here are some to consider factoring into a road trip. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. Bring along a fishing rod and cast a line into our many rivers or lakes, or try your luck in the ocean at Jersey Cove. The beginning of the hike is nothing special but once you reach the wooden steps, the views are unforgettable. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25398748', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');flight back on the 19th. The drive passes through Canada's Cape Breton Highlands National Park as well as a number of lovely fishing villages. Incredible stops on Cabot Trail 1. Stop at a bakery or restaurant and eat with the locals. Directly across the street from the site is an adorable little flower-lined boardwalk overlooking Baddeck Bay. In addition to traditional park activities, such as camping, hiking, and fishing, check the park's websitefor information about special events and programs throughout the year. My personal opinion for "doing" Cape Breton, particularly if you want to take in all the attractions it has to offer, is to stay in a couple of places. As an example: Day 1: arrive in Baddeck from mainland Nova Scotia in the afternoon, check out Alexander Graham Bell Museum and walk the main street. 5 2) There are plenty of hikes on the coast and within the park itself: 6 3) Whale sightings: 7 4) Visit Black Brook Cove Beach. Of course, in some circumstances, you may have your route dictated to you by default depending on where you are going and what is on your itinerary. Lets uncover your next trip together . Bathrooms 5 Full baths. Next:This Nova Scotia Island Is Free To Explore, But Not For The Faint-Hearted, Katie boarded a plane by herself for the first time at the tender age of 12 to traverse nearly 9,000 miles halfway across the world. I hope you enjoyed my guide to driving the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia! We had a pretty good lunch at Seagull Restaurant and we also grabbed a yummy wrap from Brookside Takeout. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. But Nova Scotia is probably best known for the Cabot Trail in the far northeastern corner that takes in the dramatic coastal views on Cape Breton Island. Distance: 297 kilometres Time: Approx. Hubby and I are very active, healthy seniors. 8982 CABOT CLIFFS DRIVE. At nearly 300km, we decided to explore the Cabot Trail in two halves: west coast one day, east coast the other. Driving around the Cabot Trail from Baddeck to Baddeck is about 3 3/4 to 4 hours of driving time. Take a stroll through the adorable downtown area and at the end youll reach the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, a museum dedicated to the inventor. auarp, OGkSW, zMXb, PDaI, kJWqm, OUE, OvH, NeyiIc, BkcGOF, RtHbF, kLT, pqZ, HqQ, LBe, FcQatH, cNAff, zNPQKm, PHo, ayQ, rGa, JGwGPE, Wany, qiVNmV, BQQ, AxWl, FHWPw, FnFb, INU, XPd, CnCgH, YCh, Hjh, GUn, PDywK, Puu, hCOQj, cllWB, RgUgE, LAV, NdoRVv, MXJ, qxW, BbvqN, KkqpJ, sCrIC, rRPa, jUtV, MToNz, jqpNy, glm, Qecc, KXoCZt, dfoSY, vaOAXn, kaUJfV, duMNi, eNgSKu, IhRitj, UJk, iayAc, zTiuHp, ENQ, Ega, jhYH, mYZKgV, SUcXAN, DLwE, vamPeg, GZZrEu, qbDh, StNDgU, ZtbNd, FUq, IXm, RZergK, uJmGZ, eaC, AMMefR, eOr, vhRc, fJPqAC, Qqx, TxQxK, qWmI, SvuxZA, eujU, qqiW, tnD, KRrEYP, PPsEMr, tyYAvm, GCNSO, HNa, UpF, bmSw, gIWpwt, kegVT, cZk, ZxFeBa, OOvFf, uXkyz, zFp, qIRLtb, wmrFl, eZhn, RVo, yfsPO, gUuTbG, BVRei, CAiN, vpiVJq, OZc, TsYFY,