In smaller areas, like St. Anns and Ingonish, youll likely find just one or two choices open year-round. Driving around the Cabot Trail from Baddeck to Baddeck is about 3 3/4 to 4 hours of driving time. To enter the National Park, you need to pay a fee of $7.50 a day (as of 2020). . 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 ? There are narrow roads, plus plenty of big bends and dips. Many visitors to Cape Breton Island set aside an entire dayor several daysto see the Cabot Trail's sights. 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). The Cabot Trail loops around the northern tip of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, 185 miles or 298 km long. It would be nice to hear some music each nighthopefully we will get to. The world-famous Cabot Trail is the islands' most popular attraction. 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. Strong preferences are part of the local culture, and there are plenty of arguments to back up each perspective! Driving clockwise is also considered easier for those in small vehicles. 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. On our way back to Ingonish, we stopped at Black Brook Cove Beach where you can see a waterfall on the cliff. Baddeck is often where travelers will begin or end a trip around the Cabot Trail, so this is a good place to book a starting location or a place to book a final overnight stay. Above all, take your time and enjoy the experience. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Then head toward Meat Cove Campground for views that youll never forget. 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. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. You could also drive the last stretch of the Cabot Trail Road and end up back where you started. Those who choose to visit Highlands National Park can also opt to spend the night at a campsite there, making the visit very affordable. There are plenty of whale watching companies in Ingonish, Bay St Lawrence, Pleasant Bay and Cheticamp. If youre planning a trip to Nova Scotia, here are 10 important things you should know about driving the Cabot Trail. 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. We picked up very yummy sandwiches from Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay for a picnic lunch on the Skyline Trail. Driving it is a lot slower, too. 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. Of all the words in all these languages, theres just one thats essential to know during your road trip: ceilidh. The Cabot Trail is popular with bird watchers and, while not common, bears, wolves, coyotes, and foxes are sometimes seen on the route. 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. What is the best way to travel around the Cabot Trail? This charming brewery is on the Trans Canada Highway 105, just before it connects to the Cabot Trail Road. Pack your patience. How long is the Cabot Trail ? 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-tops. Hit the Cabot Trail Road and make your way toward Ingonish. 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! 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. 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. Do you know anything about the Judique on the Floor festival. There is a ceilidh almost every night of the week somewhere on the west coast of Cape Breton (http://www.invernessco.ca) . 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". Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. For instance, a common starting point is the town of Baddeck. Bedrooms 6. 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. A 367-square-mile. Reward yourself with a delicious treat from Aucoin Bakery in Petit Etang and continue on to Cheticamp for the night. You will need to bring cash for the Cape Breton Highlands National Park entrance fee. It's biggest claim to fame, however, is the gentle Margaree River, which flows through the region for 120 km. 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. The world famous Cabot Trail is a scenic drive everyone should take the time to do at least once in their lifetime. #CabotTrail #ExploreNS We stayed in a private room at an Airbnb in Cheticamp that was right on the ocean. 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. Add this to your five hour drive time to determine when you should begin your Cabot Trail adventure. Enjoy the views, a beer, and a stretch of your legs at Big Spruce. Also, approximate time to drive from Baddeck to Louisbourg Fortress? Not stopping except to do a lookover and then going on. You do notwant your brakes to fail on one of the 13 percent grades. If you are camping, be sure to secure your food so bears cannot reach it. The Cabot Trail is a highway and scenic roadway in northern Victoria County and Inverness County on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. We will just pass throughstop if we see something interesting. There are many answers, and we've compiled the best suggestions to help you plan your next trip. Tour buses and RVs move very slowly on the grades. 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. 8982 CABOT CLIFFS DRIVE. You cannot cut across the center of Cape Breton Island. The beauty of driving the Cabot Trail in the summer is that the days are long and you can pack a lot of scenic stops into one day. The Margaree region, on Cape Breton's west side, features beautiful farmland and green valleys. We have read several articles about the challenges of driving the Cabot Trail; switch backs . It is named after the explorer John Cabot who landed in Atlantic Canada in 1497, although modern historians agree his landfall likely took place 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. Passing lanes are few and far between. 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. 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 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 ? 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. 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. 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. At nearly 300km, we decided to explore the Cabot Trail in two halves: west coast one day, east coast the other. The beginning of the hike is nothing special but once you reach the wooden steps, the views are unforgettable. The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway in the northern part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Ideally, it is best to have at least 3 days to enjoy what the Cabot Trail has to offer. 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! It is considered one of the best road trips in the world. I recommend you spend at least two days exploring the Cabot Trailfully, maybe even 3 if you really want to take advantage of the 26 hiking trails that dot the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Although it was slightly inconvenient, Im glad that we had the time to do so because we were able to see both perspectives. It's advised that you give yourself at least 8 hours to drive around the Cabot Trail. I created this space to inspire your future trips through my own recommendations. Date Listed 11/22/2022. 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. Thanksthese are very good suggestions. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Middle Head Trail Hiking 6. 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. We stayed at Knotty Pine Cottages in Ingonish Harbour and I highly recommend staying here. How much time should I take? Lakies Head Lookout 7. How long is the Cabot Trail from Baddeck to Louisbourg? The drive passes through Canada's Cape Breton Highlands National Park as well as a number of lovely fishing villages. This winding road spans roughly 186 miles and encompasses the entire northern half of the island. How long does the drive take? 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. I hope you enjoy my guide to driving the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia! Awesome.thanks for that tip. Bathrooms 5 Full baths. This age-old debate has left many conflicted, including neighbours, friends, and visitors alike. For the full Cabot Trail experience, you should set aside 3-5 days or plan to spend at minimum an entire day. If you are driving your own car, be sure the brakes are in good shape before attempting this drive. 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 . The loop is roughly 300 km long and while this is certainly a good distance, it can be driven in several hours (if you don't plan on stopping), but because you absolutely DO plan on stopping and soaking everything in because you're a good little traveller, I would look forward to spending a solid 9 to 10 hour day completing the drive. 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. We also got some seafood chowder at the infamous Chowder House, which was so delicious but very overpriced for the size. 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. If you would like to drive the Cabot Trail clockwise, you can follow my guide in reverse. 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. 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. The tiny community of Pleasant Bay marks the Cabot Trails midway point and is the whale watching capital of Cape Breton Island. 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. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Incredible stops on Cabot Trail 1. 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. To get the best weather and leave colour changing. Directly across the street from the site is an adorable little flower-lined boardwalk overlooking Baddeck Bay. Our cabin was so cute, very clean, and it had everything we needed. Echoing the oceanside coastline comparable to that of Maine, Breton Island offers seaside views with dramatic cliffsides that one could only dream of. Savor this time by including a hike to a waterfall or spend a few moments at a scenic overlook. Probably, by this time he will have plenty of photos of them anywaybut, just wondering. 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. Alternatively, driving allows visitors to explore the island of their own volition, making any stops they want along the way. Take your time, especially on blind curves. For dinner in Cheticamp we went to the Doryman Pub, which was okay. If you have time, we really enjoyed the short hike to Uisge Ban Falls, which is just a 15-minute drive inland from downtown. Drive 3h 5m. If you would like to drive the Cabot Trail clockwise, you can follow my guide in reverse. You may also findthat the stunning coastal scenery and the gentle allure of local museums and shops might takemore time than planned. If you crash into one, the best you can expect is an extended hospital stay. No matter which route you take, youre in for an amazing drive! Lets uncover your next trip together . Some drivers do not pay attention to opposing traffic; they pull off and swerve toward an available parking place. I am just trying to get a fix on time . not that I plan to do it this way. Here's some basic info about it: Contents [ hide] 1 Where is the Cabot trail located? 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 literallyhundredsof things to do on Breton Island at any one time, but here are some to consider factoring into a road trip. I highly recommend driving up to Neils Harbour, youll stop by some amazing lookouts on your way. 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. 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. 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. For dinner, The Freight Shed is a must the Haddock Parisienne Vin Blanc was delicious. 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. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. I also heard great things about Toms Pizza, Baddeck Lobster Suppers, and Captain Capers Fish and Chips. If you plan totake a walk or hike, bring insect repellentand use it liberally. From Margaree Harbour you have a few options for what to do. It is another beautiful trail! However, the word scenic is a bit misleading. In the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail is a picturesque road. 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. This also means a more gradual climb along Cape Smokey. The Cabot Trail is one of the most popular Canada destinations and one of the best-known driving routes in the world. I'd suggest 2-3 days, th MLS# S5077637. 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. There's so much to see and do that most suggest reserving at least five days, preferably seven, in order to see all that it has to offer. Below is the itinerary we followed, covering the trails, the very essential cafe breaks and a few unique little stop offs. Thanks for the advice on the Judique festival as well. Today youll drive part of the Cabot Trail Road that you drove yesterday. In major towns, like Baddeck, Cheticamp, and Margaree, there are several restaurants to choose from. Baddeck to Louisbourg is 1 hour and 20 minutes each way. After we had lunch we headed to Margaree Harbour, another beautiful coastal beach town. Stay the second night somewhere like Cape North or Dingwall. Soon we saw signs for Hopewell Rocks. To have an enjoyable trip, eat some good food, stop at a few gift shops, lookoffs and short hikes, you need an absolute minimum of one full day. First things first, decide how much time you have to explore the Cabot Trail. You can easily rent a car from the airport there - it's about a two-hour drive to Cape Breton. We also saw a female moose near the parking lot! The winter months are cold, it gets dark early, and most places are closed. However, a lot of people recommend that you take three or even five days to complete the trail. Pleasant Bay 10. You can be in a fog one minute and emerge into the sunshine the next. Jun 2022. However, the word "scenic" is a bit misleading. Seafood and especially shellfish are the undisputed stars on local menus. Driving the Cabot Trail. I would suggest visiting in the Summer and Fall months. If you only have a day, love to eat delicious food and want to see "everything" - this is the perfect one day itinerary of the Cabot Trail! There are so many beautiful sights to see and outdoor activities. 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. Dont be scared driving the Cabot Trail is a very relaxing and easy drive! The Ultimate 7 Day East Nova Scotia Road Trip - Trips to Uncover on October 17, 2021, My name is Michelle. 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. At most public ceilidhs, admission and concessions are cash only. 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. There are bears and other garbage-loving animals on Cape Breton Island. You can easily drive the Cabot Trail in a day, even taking into account the slower traffic and plenty of scenic stops. Along the way youll probably spot signs in Mikmaq, an indigenous language, too. Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. You will now be entering the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Cabot Trail is Nova Scotia [Latin for New Scotland]/Cape Breton Island's scenic highway. 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. 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. Your first stop should be the historic Keltic Lodge at the Cape Breton Highlands Links golf course and the Middle Head Trail. Whether youre doing the Cabot Trail in one day or several, make some time for Pleasant Bay. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. North River Kayak Tours 4. Is it best ot go down 105 or to fo down 4/104 to get back to the main island? If nothing else, the trail should be driven in no less than three days, which could make it a perfect weekend trip, as well. 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. A. Don't rush your trip. Moose are common along the Cabot Trail, especially the portion of the drive that goes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Only on the Cabot Trail itself are the speeds a little lower, and even there the limit is usually 80 km/h. Margaree River. What is the actual driving time to do the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This gives you access to the park and all of the hikes! After marching on the rocks and rough sand, we took the chance to relax a bit on the cool gravel beach. Ingonish Beach 5. The sand is so soft here, we HAD to take off our shoes! 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. 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. On this day we had delicious avocado toast for breakfast in Ingonish at Main Street Restaurant. If you travel in a clockwise direction, you'll be on the "inside" lane as you drive along both coasts. Rates are in CAN and may differ when converted to USD. Nancy Parode is a freelance travel writer who has lived abroad three times. The beaches in this area are fantastic and the water is warm. After many travels during a B.A. 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. The (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is a 298 km (185 mi) loop around the northern tip of the island, passing along and through the Cape Breton Highlands and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.. 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. This hike was one of my favourite moments on our trip. Heed the call of the ocean and join a kayak tour . This would give you time for a few stops along the way. Drive from Antigonish to Cabot Trail 190.4 km. Here, you can travel to a . The Airbnb is a log home owned by a very friendly older woman who has adorable rescued cats. My best friend and I chose to drive the Cabot Trail COUNTER-CLOCKWISE so that we could be closer to the ocean and pull off to the lookouts easily. Parks near 40 Arbor Trl include Cabot Veterans Park Community Center, Cabot Parks & Recreation, and Cabot Park. We had a delicious lunch at High Wheeler Cafe. Highly recommend it! The Cape Breton Highlands National Park lies along the Cabot Trail, providing world class hiking. This is a buffet of coffee, tea, sweets, and sometimes light sandwiches and is especially common at ceilidhs designed as community fundraisers. Here are some helpful tips for those considering one or the other, or maybe even both. Because there is only one road around the island, a serious accident can create traffic problems very quickly. 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. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. You can find a comprehensive list of Cabot Trail restaurants here, including information on hours of operation and menu choices. The Cabot Trail is a 298KM (186 mile) driving route around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and along the coastline. In short, the Cabot Trail is more diverse than you might think! 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. It's open all year round and completes a loop around the northern tip of the island, passing along and through the scenic Cape Breton Highlands. The Cabot Trail is located on the island of Cape Breton in stunning Nova Scotia. Sewer Private Sewer. English isnt the only language spoken in communities along the Cabot Trail and its definitely not the only language youll see on the signage! French is a local lingua franca as well, as a significant portion of the route goes through traditional Acadian French land in the north. A number of local outfitters also operate whale watching boat rides. 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. Her bylines include USA Today, Canadian Traveller, Ontario Tourism, The Globe and Mail, and more. Besides the natural beauty to be found here, the Cabot Trail immerses you in the still vibrant Gaelic and Acadian cultures of Cape Breton. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. You won't be sorry; in fact, you'll wish you'd planned more time for the Cabot Trail. Head toward the Neil Harbour Lighthouse for some ice cream (served in the lighthouse!). 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. Reasons to Travel the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia There are so many reasons to travel the Cabot Trail. Hubby and I are very active, healthy seniors. They also have a food truck and beer for purchase! Better brace yourself for an opinionated answer before you quiz a local! For more info on the Airbnb in Cheticamp: https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/20150959. We are a scenic half hour drive from Cabot Cliffs. But, you'll likely miss out on some cool hikes and highlights. We stayed at Auberge Giseles Inn, which I actually thought was a bed and breakfast, but it turned out to be a small hotel. Which way should you drive around the Cabot Trail? Driving the Cabot Trail encompasses the best of Cape Breton Island. 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 trail itself can be driven in one day but the question remains - why would anyone want to do it in a day? The Cabot Trail is a scenic highway in the northern part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Because we had a busy day the next day, we decided to cover as much of the road as we could. 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. The Cabot Trail is about 300 km (185 miles) and loaded with scenic viewpoints, so it's not one you'd want to rush. You can definitely drive the Cabot Trail in one day. 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. The perfect spot for sunset. 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 . 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? 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. Lot Size 4,792 SQFT. If you are hopping on the Cabot Trail road at the south end, I highly recommend stopping at Big Spruce Brewing. This inland town is flat and miles from the sea, and life here is centered around the Bras dOr Lakes. Slow down to the posted speed, even if you are an expert driver and the sun is shining. Cycling is about a 6 day trip. Congratulations on your decision to visit Cape Breton's famous Cabot Trail! And some people do end up driving the entire trail in one day, finishing the full 185 mile-loop (298 km). Shop for Cape Breton quilts, fine art, even an antique. The average rate is $33/night with an $11 reservation fee, plus a $16 daily admission fee for two adults. 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. But in smaller villages, the selection is understandably limited and in the off-season, restaurants may be closed or only open part-time. Nearby food & drink options include Peppermill Cafe & Grill, Sonic Drive-In, and Sonic Drive-In. You can definitely drive the Cabot Trail in one day. 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. 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. Distance: 297 kilometres Time: Approx. Each will start their journey in Baddeck before traveling in their preferred direction around the Trail. It is a loop, so it doesn't have a technical beginning and end, but most people start either in Baddeck or Margaree/Cheticamp. . Cabot Trail in a Day. Neil's Harbor 9. Today is the first day that youll really start to experience the gorgeous scenery and landscape of Cape Bretons coastline. On Cape Breton Island, it lies in the northern part of Victoria County and Inverness County. The best part the view from our deck was incredible. Here are some of my favorites: The most beautiful winding roads. Choose the best weather days available to make this trip. Use extra caution if you are driving the Cabot Trail in fog, mist, or rain, all of which are common on Cape Breton Island. Watch for moose. Most people like to hike the Skyline Trail at sunset but we went in the afternoon and it was still incredible! We drove the Cabot Trail in a counter clockwise direction starting in Baddeck and ending in Cheticamp. Baddeck to Louisbourg is 1 hour and 20 minutes each way. Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park, Baddeck 3. The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, starting from Baddeck or the Trans Canada Highway, this will give you time for some stops. Breakfast was included and it was pretty good! This is a very popular attraction, however we chose not to visit. The posted speed limits, particularly on sharp curves, are not meant to be mere suggestions. . Read on to get inspired about how to make the most of a short trip around the picturesque trail. Click on the map below, or here, to zoom in and out and follow along. This isnt just a driving route its also a lifeline that connects dozens of small towns and even smaller villages. Centres and our Contact Centre what their recommendations are to experience the best of Cape Breton Island's famous Cabot Trail. 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. 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. WHEN TO VISIT THE CABOT TRAIL. 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. 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. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. 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? Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you travel clockwise. The town of Cheticamp is one of the largest French settlements in Nova Scotia. 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. 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. 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. The Cabot Trail cuts right through the park, and you will not be able to avoid paying the fee to use the road. 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. Parts of it are, but not all. In order to do the Cabot Trail comfortably in a day you will . We ended up rescheduling whale watching to today so we woke up and drove back to Pleasant Bay. 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. Due to overcast weather, my pictures dont do it justice! After whale watching we went back to Rusty Anchor for a delicious lunch overlooking the ocean. The drive around St. Ann's Bay is really beautiful! She can be reached at lianna.t@thetravel.com. From here, walk along Water Street for great views of the harbour and all of the boats. 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. Note that if you have a seafood allergy or prefer vegetarian dining, youll want to scope out your options well before you travel. At 298 kilometers (185 miles), it's ideal for a four-day road trip. I still highly recommend getting out on the water if you have time! Make your first stop in Dingwall at The Markland Coastal Beach Cottages for a great view. Many folks travel to Nova Scotia just to take this drive, making it a 3-4 day vacation. It passes through Cape Brenton Highlands and Highlands National Park. The Cabot Trail, however, has sections that could stand to be completely repaved. Once you begin this drive, you have to finish it, either by completing the loop or by turning around and retracing your path. The patio overlooked the water, which was nice. 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. At 185 miles, the Cabot Trail is longer than most people think. Nearby grocery stores include Kroger, Harps Food Store, and Walmart Grocery Pickup & Delivery. The Cabot Trail is located on the island of Cape Breton in stunning Nova Scotia. White Point Trail Head Hike 8. 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. 10. Local ambassadors traveled around the world famous Cabot Trail to determine which direction is best. The Cabot Trail is well-marked, easy to drive, and filled with tons of attractions. However, it wouldn't be much fun. Popular hikes include the Franey loop which takes two to three hours, as well as Middle Head trail. Subdivision STONEYBROOK SOUTH NORTH PRCL PH. Stop at a bakery or restaurant and eat with the locals. It is named for explorer John Cabot, and early explorer in 1497shortly after Columbus chose the Caribbean . Next up is a must-do on the Cabot Trail: the Skyline Trail hike. Therefore, its no surprise that its on so many travelers bucket lists. 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. The park ranger will give you a map of the park, marked with trails, picnic areas, and sites of interest. You can often buy small concessions like soda or coffee on site, and many ceilidhs include a tea or lunch midway in the evening. Some other restaurants in Cheticamp that were recommended to us are Labri Restaurant (reserve in advance), Le Gabriel Restaurant, and Harbour Restaurant. Gas up before you start driving. The World Famous Cabot Trail! Leaving from either (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Cabot Trail is 298 kilometers long and technically you could drive it in under 5 hours, if you drove non-stop. Days On Market 9 Days. It pays to plan ahead. Pay attention as you enter and exit the scenic look-off areas. Staff at the park can advise on the best wildlife viewing areas. The weather on Cape Breton Island can vary from moment to moment. Find a local radio station and listen to the island's music. Another popular hike near here is the Franey Trail, which has incredible views from the top of a mountain. I highly recommend this road trip for anyone looking to explore Canada and admire the Atlantic ocean. It is well worth a stop here to see the scenic area and experience the warm hospitality. Theres even a Hosteling International property in Pleasant Bay! 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. The Coastal Trail is long so it'd be in your best interest to walk to Squeaker's Hole, explore the area . 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). The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, so you can plan your route accordingly. Follow along on my adventures on social media! The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. Many drivers do not survive direct encounters with these large animals. 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. If you plan and get an early start, you will still be able to complete your drive before sunset. Is this a windy road? Cabot Trail in Cape Breton How long does it take to go around the Cabot Trail? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-25398055', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cape Breton around it (unless it fit in nicely). I hope you enjoyed my guide to driving the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia! I HIGHLY recommend this two hour hike. The following include flush toilets, shower, oTENTiks - so minimal camping gear is needed.

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