travel from halifax to cape breton island

Halifax to Cape Breton and back: A Nova Scotia road trip

Are you ready to fall for one of the most picturesque and beautiful coastlines in the world? Nova Scotia is a perfect vacation destination, from incredible food and amazing hospitality to historic landmarks and stunning beaches and highlands, the province is a gem on Canada’s east coast.

If you’re planning your next vacation, my family spent 10 days exploring the province, with stops in Halifax, Baddeck, Inverness, the Cabot Trail, Chéticamp, Ingonnish, Sydney, and so many wonderful places. Read on for the best of each stop, plus driving times, must-visit places, favourite hotels, and restaurants.

Watch my full video touring the province at the bottom of the story or on YouTube .

We flew into Halifax with Swoop, which was really affordable, and Stanfield International Airport is a short drive into the city. If you book in advance, flights are as low as $49 each way from most of Canada, plus the cost of checked luggage and carry-ons.

Driving notes: We rented a car from the airport and drove in to Halifax. It’s a 30 minute drive from the airport to downtown Halifax. Our plan was to have a little time in Halifax on our first day, but you can also depart directly from the airport to Cape Breton. From the airport it’s around a 2 hour and 30 minute drive to Cape Breton, and it’s 3 hours from the Halifax city centre.

We stayed at The Halliburton Hotel on the west side of downtown Halifax, and it’s a quick 10-15 minute walk to just about anywhere near the harbour. The boutique hotel is three heritage townhouses, and the rooms are comfortable, and charming.

The hotel’s restaurant, Stories, is also excellent, and very cozy with a wonderful menu that includes Faroe Islands Salmon, Duck Magret, and local highlights.

If you love restaurants, there are a lot of options in the city, from upscale to family friendly, and a few fun highlights include all of the dining options on Argyle Street, and the restaurants along the waterfront near Lower Water Street, like The Bicycle Thief. We also loved The Wooden Monkey on Grafton St., and there are dozens of great options, especially if you love seafood.

If you have the time, I’d recommend 3 days to explore the city. Halifax has so many great activities , for just about everyone. You can get out on the water with cruises or boat tours, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site features interpreters in period costumes, there are some great art galleries and museums, and for some real Canadian history you can explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 that traces immigrants to the country from ships that came in from around the world.

Peggy’s Cove

After our day in Halifax, we hit the road, stopping at Peggy’s Cove for the morning before we drove on to Cape Breton.

Driving: Our drive from Halifax was gorgeous and scenic, and it took about 45 minutes to get to Peggy’s Cove and the historic lighthouse .

The community is so charming and quaint, with local artists, restaurants, and souvenir shopping, and I highly recommend a few hours for a visit. A new accessible platform at the lighthouse offers gorgeous views of the coast, and Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant is a great spot for Nova Scotian hospitality, lobster rolls, seafood chowder, or a full platter of fish, mussels, and scallops.

We also had the most incredible time hiking along the rocks near the lighthouse, and there are quite a few hiking trails in the area.

Baddeck, Inverness & Chéticamp

We left Peggy’s Cove around mid-day so we could make it to the town of Port Hawkesbury, the first main town in Cape Breton, by the evening.

Driving: From Peggy’s Cove it takes 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive to Port Hawkesbury. Alternatively, from Halifax, the beautiful town of Baddeck is about a 3 hour and 45 minute drive, and Sydney is 4 hours and 30 minutes. Either way, you can stop for a meal in New Glasgow or Antigonish along the Trans Canada Highway on your way Cape Breton.

From Port Hawkesbury, we went on to stay at the Inverary Resort in Baddec k , near the middle of the island and on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake. The resort is so welcoming, and it’s a beautiful town with a lot to offer, including a number of places to stay. The Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is also in town and it’s a fascinating museum featuring full-size recreations of Bell’s planes and hydrofoils, as well as other inventions.

West of there, and especially convenient if you’re driving route 19 on the way north west to Inverary, Glenora Distillery is a major highlight for it’s perfect, idyllic location, and the distillery itself. We had a tour and tried their award-winning single malt whisky, and they also have a bar and restaurant. You won’t believe the views along this drive.

On to Inverness, we had lunch at Route 19 Brewing and explored the huge, beautiful beach, where there’s also a lot of sea glass, if you’re lucky. From there, we drove on to Chéticamp and had the most incredible east coast meal before we went on to Aucoin Bakery for some treats. Our last stop in the area was a long stroll on the gorgeous Petit Etang Beach, with its scenic views of the nearby hills.

Highlands National Park & Ingonish

You probably won’t believe how big Highlands National Park is, and how many trails there are throughout the Parks Canada site. It’s over 900 square kilometres, with 26 trails that offer more than 100 km of hiking combined.

Driving: From Chéticamp, driving through Highlands National Park on the Cabot Trail, it’s a 1 hour and 40 minute drive through the park to Ingonish. Some of the top destinations within the park are about 20 to 40 minutes from the western gate, but it depends where you plan to stop.

On the way through the Highlands National Park, from the west side of the island, I’d recommend a visit to Pleasant Bay for whale watching, and you’ll find scenic views around every turn. Throughout the park there are also fishing villages, restaurants and even a few shops on the drive to Ingonish.

In Ingonish, we stayed at the stunning Keltic Lodge , the best hotel in Cape Breton, and we hiked Middle Head, Black Brook Cove, and then Dingwall Beach. We also had one of our best meals on the whole trip at Morrison’s Restaurant in Cape North –I highly recommend a visit.

Even with a few days to explore, we barely scratched the surface in the highlands. There’s just so much to see and do. When you’re planning your trip, I recommend at least 3 days in the highlands, but 7 days would give you more time for hiking, whale watching, and to explore more of the small towns. You’ll be dreaming of coming back to the highlands the moment that you leave.

Sydney & Louisbourg

Once we tore ourselves away from the highlands we had a wonderful drive to Sydney, and spent three days in the area, staying at a hotel in Membertou , the Mi’kmaq community, and exploring nearby sights.

Driving: Sydney is a 2 hour drive from Ingonish or Inverness, 1 hour and 40 minutes from Port Hawkesbury, and it’s an hour from Baddeck. From the south and the rest of Nova Scotia, the Trans Canada Highway goes right to the city, but there are a number of routes to the city from around the island.

Sydney has two bigger hotels, plus inns and other lodgings, and numerous restaurants, including one of our favourites, Governors Pub on Esplanade near a must-visit attraction, the Big Fiddle (it even plays music!).

While we were in town, we also learned about the history of the area and picked up some Indigenous-made souvenirs from the Membertou Heritage Park , and then went on to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site .

The historic French site is an incredible place. It was originally built in the 1700s, and then it was destroyed by the British in 1758. Today, the site exists because it was rebuilt starting in the 1960s, and it’s filled with local flavour, interpreters, and details about the people who lived and worked there 300 years ago.

You can easily spend half a day exploring the fortress, and there are options for food, there’s a bar, soldiers put on displays throughout the day, including firing muskets and canons, and the Mi’kmaw Interpretive Centre offers vibrant history and culture told through stories and music.

Back in Halifax, we spent our last two days in Nova Scotia exploring some of the things that we missed the first time around.

We walked the waterfront–one of the best boardwalks I’ve seen anywhere in Canada–and explored the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic where you can see artifacts from the Titanic, as well as history, and huge scale models of legendary ships.

We took the ferry to Georges Island National Historic Site and explored the tunnels of the old military base, and then I tried some local beer at The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse.

And we took our daughter to the Discovery Centre to have some fun with experiments, science, and even some sea creatures.

It was the perfect way to end our trip; not rushing back to a flight, but relaxing and soaking up more of the province’s wonderful charm.

So are you ready to book your trip to Nova Scotia this summer? Find a hotel in Nova Scotia , or scroll down for more resources to plan your trip.

The GATE will have more stories on Nova Scotia in the coming days.

For more resources to plan your road trip, NovaScotia.com has trip ideas for any length of time, from 48 hours up to 10 days. You can also find more ideas from CBIsland.com , Cape Breton’s official tourism website. And for ideas in Halifax, visit Discoverhalifaxns.com .

Do you have any questions? Comment below or reach out to me on Twitter . You can also watch more of my travel videos on YouTube .

All photos and video by W. Andrew Powell, The GATE.

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W. Andrew Powell

W. Andrew Powell is a writer, photographer, and videographer with over 25 years of experience covering entertainment. After launching The GATE in 2001, his interests have expanded to include travel, lifestyle, gadgets, food, and whisky. Andrew is a member of the Critics Choice association, and the Travel Media Association of Canada.

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Explore Canada's Best Island on a Road Trip Packed With Incredible Beaches, Adorable Cafes, and Sprawling Parks

Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, which T+L readers recently voted the no. 1 island in Canada, has everything you could ask for in a weekend getaway.

Lola Augustine Brown is a Nova Scotia-based freelance writer who covers food, travel, and parenting. Her work has been featured in The Guardian, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), National Geographic Traveler , the Toronto Star, Travel + Leisure , and Today's Parent.

Getting to Cape Breton Island is always transportive. It's a scenic 2½-hour drive from where I live in rural Nova Scotia. Coming from urban Halifax — as many do — there are more distinctive changes, as the city streets give way to rolling hills.

No matter your departure point, the most striking shift hits you at the end of the mile-long Canso Causeway, which connects the mainland to Cape Breton. When my view fills with windswept shores and lush forest, that's the moment I know I've arrived.

The classic way to see the best of the island is the Cabot Trail , a two-lane highway that loops around the island's north and connects its wilderness areas and several of its historic towns. Gaelic people from Scotland arrived in the 1700s, and the area's Celtic roots are displayed everywhere. Live music always includes a fiddle and drum, and the road signs appear in both Gaelic and English — except in the Acadian part of the island, where they're in French. Traditional and Indigenous Mi'kmaq fishermen live in small villages, some of which butt up against world-class resorts.

Related : The Top 3 Canadian Islands

But Cape Breton remains a sleepy delight Canadians turn to when they need a break from it all. It still feels rural and remote, though these qualities are mostly preserved in what locals and "come from away" folks offer visitors: quaint cafés and B&Bs, boat tours, and breweries. I discover something new every time, especially in the fall, once the summer rush has abated.

On my latest trip to Cape Breton Island in October 2021, I began with a visit to Big Spruce Brewing , Nova Scotia's first organic craft brewery. In 2009, Jeremy and Melanie White, who had honeymooned on the island years earlier, bought a run-down farm near Bras d'Or Lake — online, sight unseen. They found that hops were a good crop for the land, so why not try making beer? I sampled their Kitchen Party Pale Ale, which paired perfectly with deep-fried pepperoni, a regional pub specialty.

Then I drove northwest, following the winding Cabot Trail, then took Route 19 until I reached Inverness, a historic coal-mining village that, with the opening of the Cabot Links Golf Resort in 2011, has found new purpose as a leisure destination. My target: Inverness Beach, known for its abundance of sea glass, pieces of which I squirreled away in every pocket of my coat.

Overlooking the beach are the luxe private villas at Cabot Cape Breton (doubles from $190), designed by famed Halifax architect Omar Gandhi. This golf resort — which includes Cabot Cliffs , the top course in Canada — is perhaps the most spectacular stay on the island. Across the street, in the relaxed brewpub at Route 19 Brewing (entrées $14–$32), I had the fattest lobster roll I'd ever laid eyes on.

On the way to Chéticamp, the Acadian pride becomes palpable as the historical flag appears with increasing frequency, either painted on buildings or hanging from colorful, weather-beaten houses. I headed straight for the Gypsum Mine , a flooded quarry with stark-white walls surrounded by spruces, birches, and firs. A dip in the frigid lake is worth it, as is the steep climb up the side of the quarry (assisted by ropes attached to the rock face) that ends with gorgeous water views.

Mr. Chicken (entrées $8–$11) in Chéticamp is a local fast-food favorite for chicken poutine, but I was eager to eat at L'abri (entrées $16–$35), which had been booked solid during my previous trip, despite the fact that it had opened just 18 months earlier. L'abri is owned by Basil Doucet and Jaron Felix. After growing tired of their busy careers in Toronto and Halifax, the friends returned to their hometown to start an upscale restaurant riffing on Cape Breton cuisine. I savored the superb Cajun haddock cakes as soft French music lilted through the air.

It was great fuel for my next excursion: hiking Cape Breton's Skyline Trail , a five-mile loop through scrubby terrain that leads to a headland boardwalk. After living in Nova Scotia for almost 15 years, I spotted my first moose, looking majestic as it grazed on shrubs.

Supper that night was at the Rusty Anchor Restaurant (entrées $13–$30), in Pleasant Bay, known for hearty seafood and cheery service. I gorged on Northern Emerald oysters and a juicy bacon cheeseburger. Later I checked in to a spacious geodesic dome just down the road at True North Destinations (doubles from $200), where I found a perfect post-hike reward in my hot tub overlooking the thrashing Atlantic.

From Ingonish Beach, I whipped across the ocean on a whale-watching tour with Keltic Express Zodiac Adventures . I hoped to see Minke whales or the odd humpback, but despite Captain Kinnon MacKinnon's best efforts to track them down, I saw neither. I was too impressed by the three immense sunfish I did spot to be disappointed. Ingonish is one of the Cabot Trail's most rewarding stops, with stylish boutiques along the portion of the road that runs through town. At Groovy Goat Farm & Soap Company , I snuggled both bunnies and baby goats, and at Leather Works by Jolene , I bought a buttery-soft, sunshine-yellow purse.

Lunch was a snow-crab sandwich at Salty Rose's & the Periwinkle Café (sandwiches $11–$22), a gallery-bakery combo owned by cousins Caitlyn Purcell and Sarabeth Drover, who offer decadent egg sandwiches and orange-scented granola topped with edible flowers, alongside art, crafts, and jewelry. I was sleeping upstairs that night, in one of the café's two vintage-chic rooms with 1970s-inspired wallpaper (doubles from $175). After checking in, I took a long walk along Ingonish Beach, a strip of soft sand edged by piles of pink and gray stones, and basked in views of the historic Keltic Lodge (doubles from $260) set on the cliffs above, where I later ordered a Dark & Stormy in the elegant Highland Sitting Room .

I drove to Cape Smokey Provincial Park to walk to the cliff tops and get one more look at the highlands before heading home. On my way out of town, I stopped at the Wreck Cove General Store for a final lobster roll — the best in all of Cape Breton, islanders say. Co-owner Jenn Partland credits the shop's 40-year-old recipe: a no-nonsense mix of knuckle and claw meat, Miracle Whip, salt, and pepper.

As I took my last bite, I felt a deep sense of appreciation settle in. There's something immensely satisfying about places that know how to keep things simple and unfussy. And that's exactly what Cape Breton does best.

A version of this story first appeared in the October 2021 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline A Natural Course.

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2 replies to this topic

I would go with Sherbrooke Village or Guysborough going down the #7 to stay for a night.. Here are a few links for the area.

http://www.novascotia.com/about-nova-scotia/regions/eastern-shore/

http://bit.ly/2qorRyf Eastern Shore

Or you can get more quickly to Baddeck taking the main highway. It is four lane divided highway almost the entire way: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9aXd8bevrFjjubAz8

On the Eastern Shore check out Seawind Landing in Charlos Cove. We stayed there quite a few years ago and it is a lovely spot.

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From Halifax to the Cabot Trail: A 3-day Nova Scotia road trip

Things to do

Can't decide between Nova Scotia's city hot spots or country sights? Experience the best of both on this three-day road trip across one of Canada's founding provinces. Get your urban fix in the lively capital of Halifax External Link Title before striking out for rural Cape Breton Island and the world-famous Cabot Trail External Link Title .

What does the drive look like?

• Launch your trip with a full day of discovery and dining in Halifax, where maritime history meets modern amenities and attractions.
• Make tracks by highway and causeway to central Cape Breton Island – you’ll soon see why it was voted Best Island in Canada External Link Title in Travel & Leisure ’s 2018 World’s Best Awards.
• Spend a day exploring the Cabot Trail loop, sampling classic Cape Breton hospitality along the way. Your jaw will drop – for real – at the sight of this sweeping cliff-and-forest-cloaked coastline. Which is why you’ll be plotting your return trip on the drive back to Halifax.

Experience one of the world’s top road trips with this three-day itinerary as a guide. Tip: if you’ve got an additional day or three, seriously consider extending your stay.

Day 1: Halifax

Your starting point

Must-stops along the way

You won't need your car today. Instead, walk your way around this foot-friendly port city to find out why it was named a Top Destination on the Rise External Link Title in TripAdvisor's 2018 Travelers' Choice Awards.

• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk External Link Title : This 2.4-mile urban wooden walkway - one of the longest in the world - links you to downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions while taking you past public art installations like the droopy ' Fountain' and 'Get Drunk, Fall Down External Link Title ' lampposts. Keep an eye on the 450,000-square-foot glass-and-copper-clad Queen's Marque External Link Title development, opening in 2019 with more public spaces and gathering places.
• Hydrostone Market External Link Title : Built in the wake of the catastrophic 1917 Halifax Explosion External Link Title , this two-story heritage structure in the city's North End now houses an array of modern boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Peruse trendy decor and candles, sample olive oils and balsamic vinegars, and pick up an artisan souvenir or two before heading outside to stroll the quaint streets and green courtyards of the Hydrostone District External Link Title .
• Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 External Link Title : Make time to visit some of Halifax's other storied sites, including Pier 21 (it turned 90 in 2018) and the family-friendly Halifax Citadel National Historic Site External Link Title - don a kilt and be a soldier for a day!

Time your trip with the Savour Food & Wine Festival External Link Title , Halifax Burger Week External Link Title , or Halifax Oyster Festival External Link Title . Or take your pick from a range of restaurants serving up fresh, local, and seasonal fare.

• Edna External Link Title : Short for Eat Drink Nourish Always, Edna ranked fourth in Curated Magazine External Link Title 's 25 Best Places to Eat (2018). Come taste for yourself why locals regularly line up for dinners and brunch at this compact North End diner. Maybe it's the fresh oyster, cheese, and charcuterie board, or the N.S. lobster roll with dill cr?me fraiche ?
• The Brooklyn Warehouse External Link Title : Now in its 11th year, this cozy eatery in the city's West End continues to draw locals and tourists alike to its Nova-Scotia-forward dishes and drinks. Evolving chalkboard menus beckon with items like local grass-fed beef brisket and the PigFish Chowder (Nova Scotia scallops and confit pork belly), while the bar serves up local craft beers and bottles of wine with only a $15 markup. Cheers!
• The Bicycle Thief External Link Title : Come for the waterfront views, stay for the Italian-inspired fare at this lively waterfront room and patio. Watch ferries ply the harbor over plates of Atlantic halibut with spiked Orange Marmalata lacquer, fettuccine all'aragosta (Nova Scotia lobster), or fall-off-the-bone roasted beef short rib al Barolo .
• DeeDee's Ice Cream External Link Title : Savor scoops of small-batch ice cream - made from local dairy milk and cream - at this much-loved family-run shop. Tempting flavors include Banana Cardamom, Mexican Chocolate, and Orange Star Anise. But you might want to put back a burrito (meat or veggie) or quesadilla first - also on the menu.

End your day

Rest those street-weary feet in a historic hotel, seaside B&B, or modern getaway. After all, the country is calling and you want to be fresh.

• The Halliburton External Link Title : Sink into cozy duvets and fine linens at this 1809-built hotel, bedecked in red bricks and 19th-century charm.
• Lord Nelson Hotel External Link Title : Chandeliered opulence meets Halifax Public Gardens External Link Title views - best enjoyed from the comfort of your soft-hued room.
• SeaWatch Bed & Breakfast External Link Title : Immerse yourself in all things nautical, from marine d?cor to harbor views off private decks.
• Sutton Place Hotel Halifax External Link Title : Jewel-tone finishes and European flair will greet those who can wait for the 2019 opening of this 262-room Nova Centre External Link Title hotel.

Day 2: Baddeck

Total drive time: 3.5 hours

Start your engine for today's northeast jaunt to Baddeck External Link Title in mid Cape Breton Island. Follow Highway 104 to the mile-long Canso Causeway External Link Title before hanging left onto Highway 105.

• New Glasgow External Link Title : Glimpse times gone by at the Carmichael-Stewart House Museum External Link Title before stretching your legs along the town's revitalized riverfront walk - complete with Victorian-style lampposts and marina.
• Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site External Link Title : Take the White Glove Tour for a hands-on discovery of the famous inventor's photos, personal effects ,and creations, including an underwater breathing apparatus.
• Bras d'Or Lake External Link Title : Sail, kayak, or fish on Canada's largest inland sea, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

It's easy to live like a locavore here, where menus and markets brim with bounty from both land and sea.

• The Freight Shed External Link Title : Dig into scallops, crab cakes, lobster rolls, peppercorn steak, and locally famous pancakes, all served up in a minimalist waterside room with wood rafter ceiling and dockside views.
• The Bite House External Link Title : Sit down to carefully crafted seasonal plates at this airy 12-seat restaurant tucked inside a century-old farmhouse. Fetching rave reviews External Link Title from the New York Times and more, chef Bryan Picard's monthly nine-course set menus vary with crab, halibut, Angus beef and lamb - plus vegetables, herbs, and flowers plucked fresh from the field. (Reservations for 2019 open January 5 at midnight.)
• Big Spruce Brewing External Link Title : Pop in for a pint of Kitchen Party Pale Ale and leave with a growler of Ready Yer Knot Regatta Red Ale at this on-farm brewery just 8 miles west of Baddeck in Nyanza .

Check into a homey inn or cheery guest house - you're going to need a full night's sleep for tomorrow's Cabot Trail adventures.

• Silver Dart Lodge External Link Title : Choose from bright cottage-style chalets and lodge rooms on 90 acres overlooking Bras d'Or Lake. Prefer a fireplace and spiral staircase? Bed down in the on-site MacNeil House External Link Title - a renovated 19th-century mansion.
• Water's Edge Inn & Gallery External Link Title : Look forward to luxurious linens and antique furnishings in rooms with water views. Peruse pieces by more than 100 maritime artists in the on-site gallery.

Day 3: Ch?ticamp

Total drive time: 3 hours

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. 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.

Sure, you can get to Ch?ticamp in three hours straight, but you'll want to allow a full day for stops. Check your brakes - sharp curves and steep grades ahead - and fuel up. Then travel counter-clockwise (shown here) to catch outside-lane and sunset views, or clockwise to see the sights from a different angle. Either way, you're in for a treat.

• Ingonish External Link Title : Gallery hop, fish for salmon and trout, golf at world-renowned Highlands Links Golf Course External Link Title or tap your feet at a traditional ceilidh in this five-community stretch along the island's eastern shore.
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park External Link Title : Protecting some 370 square miles of north-island wilderness, this rugged oasis tempts with river canyons, thick forest (with fabulous foliage come fall), lakes, beaches, and an ancient plateau. Pick from 26 hiking trails, ranging from the easy Skyline and its St. Lawrence River views - watch for moose and migrating whales - to the challenging Franey climb up to flat rocks and 360-degree vistas. Pack a picnic External Link Title or learn to lobster boil External Link Title on the beach.
• Pleasant Bay External Link Title : Get ready to spot humpback, pilot, minke, and finback whales from this welcoming fishing village at the Cabot Trail's halfway point. Learn about their habitat and way of life at the Whale Interpretive Centre External Link Title .
• Ch?ticamp External Link Title : Pull into this traditional Acadian town just in time to visit the Les Trois Pignons External Link Title museum and gallery before catching the sunset from the beach.

Succulent seafood abounds in these parts, but you'll find plenty of other specialties too - from Nova-Scotia-style pub grub to palate-pleasing ethnic fare.

• Dancing Moose Cafe External Link Title : Fill up on sweet or savory Dutch pannekoek - try the bacon-ginger combo - for breakfast or lunch in tiny Birch Plain on the east coast. (Ate too much? Roll into a cozy wood cabin External Link Title for a nap or the night.)
• Rusty Anchor External Link Title : Bite into what National Geographic External Link Title calls "some of the best lobster rolls on the Cabot Trail - pure lump lobster meat with just a little butter (no celery or salad dressing, thank you) served on a toasted roll." But don't skip the local oysters and mussels at this family-run Pleasant Bay restaurant.
• Doryman Pub & Grill External Link Title : Tune into live fiddle music while tucking into local Ch?ticamp favorite, the Doryman Burger. Go big with a steak platter or hot gravy-smothered sandwich.

With a ceilidh or two under your belt, and a four-hour drive back to Halifax tomorrow, it's time to say goodnight. Good thing that a comfy room is just steps away.

• Ch?ticamp Outback Inn External Link Title : Gray barn wood accents the walls and modern decor lines this newly opened inn's three rooms and one suite.
• Auberge des P?cheurs Inn External Link Title : Check into down-home east coast hospitality (think friendly service, quilted bedspreads, and nautical appointments) at this Cape-Cod-style structure overlooking the harbor, fishing wharf, and Ch?ticamp Island.

Start planning your next trip with  Tourism Nova Scotia External Link Title .

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#9 long weekend road trip

Halifax to Cape Breton Island

Nova Scotia

You’re going to love Cape Breton Island

Looking to go remote? Make the 364km trek from Halifax to Cape Breton. There are 2 routes to take: a 5-hour drive that takes you along the southern coast of Nova Scotia, or a 4-hour one that goes along the northern part. Either way, grab some road snacks, a copy of Stan Rogers’ Greatest Hits and hit the open road.

Cape Breton is great for nature, wildlife and solitude.

You can’t experience Cape Breton without a walk along the Skyline Trail. Overlooking the ocean, this impressive loop is just the journey you need to get your head out of whatever’s stressing you and into the moment.

As you consider current and future travel plans, stay up-to-date on car rental providers’ change and cancellation policies . As you’re searching for car rentals, use our Flexible Filters options that let you sort your search results by providers offering free cancellations (usually in the form of travel credits) and providers that are waiving change fees.

As you consider current and future travel plans, stay up-to-date on hotel providers’ change and cancellation policies . As you’re searching for hotels, use our Flexible Filters options that let you sort your search results by providers offering free cancellations (usually in the form of travel credits) and providers that are waiving change fees.

View country-level and province-specific restrictions in Canada here .

Enjoy your drive

With two roads to take, deciding between them really depends on what you want. The shorter route along 104/106 is a direct shot, while the coastal route on CA-7 is the more scenic. Whichever way you go, see if you can hold out stopping until you get to Port Hawkesbury. It’s the first town you’ll hit on Cape Breton Island and has plenty of great lunch spots.

Median rental car rate

This graph shows the median rental car rate in Halifax by month in 2020, compared to the same month in 2019.

Staying on Cape Breton Island

Median hotel rate

This graph shows the median hotel rate on Cape Breton Island by month in 2020, compared to the same month in 2019.

Top road trip destinations

#1 Toronto to Niagara on the Lake

#2 Vancouver to Whistler

#3 Montreal to Laurentian Mountains

#4 Calgary to Banff

#5 Edmonton to Jasper National Park

#6 Ottawa to Thousand Islands

#7 Winnipeg to Kenora

#8 Mississauga to Collingwood

#9 Halifax to Cape Breton Island

#10 Brampton to Muskoka

The Ultimate Cabot Trail Itinerary: Cape Breton Road Trip

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Looking for one of the most beautiful road trips in the world? Consider driving the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. While this is one of the best known road trips in Canada, I hadn’t heard of it until recently — and I was stunned at just how special it was.

This summer I’ve been spending a lot of time in Atlantic Canada, which is one of the better decisions I’ve made lately. This is one of my new favorite parts of the world. But one of the biggest highlights of Atlantic Canada has been driving the Cabot Trail and discovering the Cape Breton region of Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia was in the works for awhile. Earlier this year, I met representatives from Visit Nova Scotia and we decided to do a campaign together. 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. I’m always down for a road trip. And I had great company — my frequent travel buddy Cailin , who herself is from Nova Scotia! ( Check out her list of best things to do in Nova Scotia here. )

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. The Halifax area and its surroundings reminded me so much of Massachusetts — but once you get into Cape Breton, everything spreads out and countrifies. It feels more like New Hampshire or Maine!

I loved Nova Scotia because of its beauty, because of its friendliness, because of how relaxed it was. And on top of that, it had a quality I’m having trouble defining. It was special .

And if you’re from the New York City area or New England — and I know many of my US-based readers are — Nova Scotia is a very easy trip. Hop on a short nonstop flight to Halifax from New York or Boston. It’s a two-hour flight from either city!

This post was last updated in April 2023.

Table of Contents

What is the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is a scenic driving route on the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia and considered one of the most beautiful road trips in North America. Cape Breton is the large island in the northeast of Nova Scotia, home to 18% of the province’s land and 14% of the population. Cape Breton is known for being a slow-paced and beautiful corner of Nova Scotia.

The Cabot Trail is well-marked, easy to drive, and filled with tons of attractions. At 298 kilometers (185 miles), it’s ideal for a four-day road trip.

Cape Breton Road Trip FAQs

ABSOLUTELY. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Novia Scotia, which you’ll soon realize after you start driving and maybe even do a hike, like the Skyline Hike at sunset.

I recommend at least 4 days for the Cabot Trail drive, though 3 or 5 would also work. I dive into that more here . This gives you plenty of time to drive the entire loop, and even backtrack a bit if you need to.

Chéticamp , in my opinion, is the most beautiful town on Cape Breton. Plus it’s a great place to base yourself for a few nights, as there are so many activities to do in the area.

The world-famous Cabot Trail is a scenic drive that’s quite easy to drive. It’s a paved road that will take you through some small towns and though there are some curves, most people will have no problem. As I said in my Cape Breton road trip tips below , be sure to watch out for moose and take extra care pulling in and out of any scenic stops.

You’ll want to plan your Cape Breton road trip for summer or fall. Late spring is also a possibility but keep in mind that many businesses are seasonal and do not re-open until May or June. If you want to see the foliage, the best time is in October, though you’ll want to check annual foliage calendars as it can change.

Reasons to Travel the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

There are so many reasons to travel the Cabot Trail. Here are some of my favorites:

The most beautiful winding roads.  Driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park is like driving in a cartoon. The roads are so windingly photogenic. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such beautiful roads as I did in Cape Breton!

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. Be sure to periodically clean your windshield.

The freshest, most succulent, most delicious lobster. For years Cailin has been telling me that Nova Scotia has the best lobster in the world (or, more often, yelling, “THAT’S NOT LOBSTER!” whenever I eat lobster in the Caribbean). To be honest, I rolled my eyes at her exultations — but then I tried it and WOW. I’m used to Maine lobster, but Nova Scotia lobster is on another level. And it’s available everywhere on the Cabot Trail.

Endless changing landscapes. At times, like in White Point, I felt like I was in Normandy. At other times, driving through the lusher parts of the highlands, I almost felt like I was in Hawaii! And when the sun dipped behind the mountains, I was reminded of Colorado.

Three interesting cultures in one place, shared proudly with visitors. You can explore indigenous Mi’kmaq culture, Acadian culture, and Gaelic culture all on this same island. And they’re all respected as being essential parts of Canadian culture. It really hits you when you walk into the visitors’ center at the national park and it reads, “Welcome. Bienvenue. Pjila’si. Fáilte.”

A slow, country pace. When you live in a city (especially New York City), you notice how much slower it is in the country. Things move at a slow pace. People take their time to enjoy themselves. It’s a nice break for your brain.

One incredible national park. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the one national park on Cape Breton Island, and the Cabot Trail drives right through it. It’s a sensational park. The best known activity on the Cabot Trail is the Skyline Trail, a hike in the park best done at sunset for beautiful views.

Wonderful and welcoming people. So many memories from Cape Breton are tied up in the wonderful people we met. The Acadian ladies who invited us to come back and stay in their homes for the Mi-Carême celebration in winter. The Mi’kmaq educator at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys who told us about their natural cancer-fighting remedies that Westerners may be on the verge of exploiting. The artist who worried about the impact of Airbnb on young Cape Bretoners being unable to afford homes. The smart, thoughtful guides at Parks Canada who were bubbling over with their love for the outdoors.

How Many Days Do You Need on the Cabot Trail?

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. You can travel the Cabot Trail for longer if you’d 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.

If you only have one or two days, I recommend staying in the Chéticamp area rather than trying to do the whole trail. Most of my favorite experiences on the Cabot Trail were in or around Chéticamp: hiking the Skyline Trail and the Learn to Lobster Boil experience in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the Mi-Carême Centre, Aucoin Bakery, and L’abri restaurant.

It’s best to rent your car in either Sydney or Halifax and drive to the trail. Sydney is the largest city in Cape Breton and it has a small airport and several car rental locations. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the Cabot Trail and you enter at Englishtown, near Baddeck.

Halifax is a bigger city and major air hub and it’s on the mainland of Nova Scotia. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from the Cabot Trail and you enter at Hunters Point, also near Baddeck. You can rent a car one-way from Sydney to Halifax, as we did, but one-way rentals can be very expensive in Nova Scotia.

Cape Breton Road Trip Itinerary

Driving the Cabot Trail for four days will give you enough time to enjoy the best of this gorgeous part of Nova Scotia. This Cabot Trail itinerary gives you an extra day in what I think is the nicest part — Chéticamp — but gives you enough time to enjoy some of the other lovely places, like Ingonish, Baddeck, and of course Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

A lot of people ask whether you should drive the Cabot Trail clockwise or counterclockwise. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. It would matter if you only drove in one direction and never backtracked whatsoever. Cailin and I ended up driving back and forth several times in the most photogenic part of the national park because the weather kept changing and we wanted better photos!

We ended up driving the bulk of the trail clockwise and we felt happy with it. Here is our full itinerary:

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day One: Sydney to Chéticamp

Cailin and I began our Cape Breton road trip immediately after our OneOcean cruise docked in Sydney.  Sydney is close to the Cabot Trail at Englishtown, but I had wanted to explore indigenous culture in Nova Scotia, so we headed south and started slightly off the trail in Eskasoni.

Eskasoni Cultural Experiences is where you can learn about Mi’kmaq indigenous culture and traditions from Mi’kmaq people. You take part in a smudging ceremony, learn about hunting and weapons, learn some dancing, and even cook some bread over the fire, Mi’kmaq-style.

It is a bit field trip-y — you can tell that groups of students are their bread and butter. But I loved learning about Mi’kmaq culture and I especially loved learning from so many Mi’kmaq folks directly. Learning from actual indigenous people is all too rare these days, and it should be cherished.

I loved how the guides weaved in traditions and how they use them today, like medicinal plants that are used to treat cancer. One of the guides, Steve, even offered to smudge my passport to give me protection on my travels.

Next, if you have the time, visit the Highland Village . Just off the trail in Iona is a village that re-creates life among Gaelic settlers in Cape Breton from centuries ago, complete with costumes, set beautifully on Bras d’Or lake. While we didn’t have time to do this due to a late start, this is absolutely worth the beautiful setting alone.

Spend the afternoon driving to Chéticamp and get an early dinner.  You are now officially on the Cabot Trail! The drive to Chéticamp is lovely, especially once you hit the water. For an early dinner, I recommend L’abri — a relatively new, very queer-friendly restaurant that the locals can’t stop raving about. They do a great lobster roll. Cailin and I loved L’abri so much that we went multiple times!

In the evening, hike the Skyline Trail, the most famous hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This is an easy, even hike with a gorgeous view at the end, even better at sunset. I think it’s the best Instagram spot on the Cabot Trail. While you can do this hike on your own, Parks Canada offers a guided sunset hike  that takes about three hours altogether.

The Skyline Trail is the best place on the Cabot Trail to see moose, so keep your eyes open! There is even a moose “exclosure” (first time I had ever heard that word) where you have a moose-free zone and can climb a platform to see if you can spot them outside.

The Skyline Trail seems mostly even, but you don’t realize until you turn around and head back that the path had been slowly sloping downward the whole time. 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.

Keep in mind the hike starts two hours before sunset, but you also have to pick up your park pass at the entrance and the start of the hike is about a 20-minute drive from the entrance. This is why you get an early dinner!

Where to Stay in Chéticamp: Silver Linings Inn

In Chéticamp we stayed at Silver Linings Inn , a midrange guesthouse and motel that I highly recommend. We were the first guests to stay in a new suite above the main guesthouse: a loft with two incredibly comfortable queen beds, tons of excellent pillows, and an ensuite bathroom. Rates from $149 CAD ($112 USD).

The guesthouse also has the best continental breakfast I’ve ever seen anywhere. Tons of muffins, bread from nearby Aucoin Bakery, cereals, fruit, drawers filled with peanut butter and all kinds of jellies and jams, even a designated gluten-free zone. They really make an effort to do a simple breakfast well, and the breakfast room is airy and beautiful.

The internet wasn’t great and only worked decently in the public areas of the guesthouse, which were closed at night, but this is standard for Cape Breton. (See more on internet in Cape Breton in the “Cabot Trail Travel Tips” section below.)

One qualm: there is a doorstop right in the middle of the bathroom floor and it blends into the tiles, so Cailin and I stubbed our toes on it multiple times. (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 they’d look into removing it.

Find deals on hotels in Chéticamp here .

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Two: Chéticamp and Around

Chéticamp was my favorite part of the Cabot Trail because there are so many cool things to do nearby. It’s absolutely worth spending an extra night in Chéticamp to get the most out of this part of Cape Breton. Start your day with breakfast, then plan to hit up a lot of sights.

Learn about Acadian culture at Les Trois Pignons. This museum and cultural center is a great place to learn about the Acadians who lived in Cape Breton centuries ago. While you can see recreated living quarters for Acadian families, the coolest part is seeing the hooked rugs.

The hooked rugs were so interesting. Artist Elizabeth LeFort was one of the most gifted hooked rug artists, and she was particularly talented with hooked rug portraiture. In the 1960s, she did portraits of all the Apollo astronauts — as well as JFK, Jackie Kennedy and Pope John Paul II!

But for me and Cailin, our favorite portrait was of a white Persian cat. It actually used long mohair strings that were pulled through, making a very fluffy cat — and had a very necessary DO NOT TOUCH sign beneath it. So tempting.

Stop for coffee at the Frog Pond Cafe and check out folk art at Sunset Art Gallery . These two establishments are located side by side in Chéticamp. Artist William Roach has been carving and painting works of art for decades, and the gallery is now home to works by 15 Cape Breton folk artists. This is a great spot to stop for a coffee and a browse.

Next, paint your own masks at the Mi-Carême Interpretive Centre . When I saw “paint traditional masks” on my itinerary, I wasn’t too excited — but this ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. It was definitely my favorite indoor activity, too!

Mi-Carême is a traditional French celebration that brings joy to a dark time — the name means “middle of Lent” and it’s a leap of fun in the midst of a month of austerity. People dress up in elaborate costumes to conceal their identities — seriously, people wear full masks, gloves, wigs, and stilts to fully disguise themselves — and go around from place to place, having people guess who they are.

Mi-Carême was celebrated as early as the Middle Ages, but sadly it has died out everywhere but a few communities in French Canada. 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.

This was SO MUCH FUN! Cailin and I chose masks and began painting. She painted a full Nova Scotia seascape with a lighthouse and a lobster. I did a black and white and pink design. The whole time we painted and chatted with resident artist Diane Bourgeois about Cape Breton and how it’s changed over the last several years.

After that we actually put on costumes that matched our masks and took some photos! There is a full museum at the Mi-Carême Centre that shares the history of the event.

“I so want to come back for Mi-Carême!” I exclaimed to the staff. “We should do it next year.”

“Yes! You can stay at my house!” one of the women offered. I OFFICIALLY LOVE CAPE BRETON.

Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park. 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!

Get ready for the best meal of your trip — you’re going to Learn to Lobster Boil in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  You enjoy a lobster boil on the beach with Parks Canada guides, including Robert, who is the authority on cooking and eating lobster.

This is a great activity for people who are lobster aficionados like me and especially Cailin, but it’s extra special for people who live inland or have no idea how to eat a whole lobster. We were joined by a family of six from Alberta who had never eaten whole lobster before and were delighted. There’s no better introduction to eating lobster than cooking your own on the beach and being instructed by an expert!

(2023 update – Unfortunately, Parks Canada no longer offers this activity.)

There were a few differences in the lobster-cooking process here: they only use a few inches of water instead of filling the whole pot with water, and they GENEROUSLY salt the water. It basically has to be like cooking the lobster in the ocean.

And it paid off. This is the best lobster I have ever had. It was so incredibly fresh and succulent. And sharing it with an interesting group of travelers and Parks Canada guides made it even better.

This is usually done on the beach, but it was a rainy night, so they moved our group to an indoor/outdoor shelter. Don’t despair if rain is in the forecast!

Stay at Silver Linings Inn one more night.

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Three: Chéticamp to Dingwall

Before you hit the road, know that today will be the most rural part of your Cabot Trail road trip. Phone service will be its weakest along this part of the route, and there won’t be a lot of dining options. It’s best to plan ahead and double-check for opening days — don’t leave anything until the last minute! You may want to make your dinner reservation in advance.

In the morning, stop at Aucoin Bakery . Aucoin Bakery is a huge source of local pride for Chéticamp! Everyone raves about it. Silver Linings Inn uses Aucoin Bakery bread for their breakfast. Learn to Lobster Boil uses Aucoin Bakery rolls for their dinners. Nearly every local we met recommended that we stop here.

We grabbed some cinnamon buns and oatcakes — both delicious. 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.

Aucoin Bakery is small — there is almost no seating. It’s a better spot for picking up pastries and taking back to wherever you’re staying — or even to one of the picnic areas in the national park!

Next, drive through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This is a beautiful day of driving, and the Cabot Trail will take you through most of the park. There are lots of viewpoints and hiking trails just off the highway, but it’s nice just for driving through.

Have lunch at the Rusty Anchor in Pleasant Bay. With its jaunty fisherman waving you in with a lobster, the Rusty Anchor restaurant is a quintessential road trip stop! They’re especially known for their mussels and oysters. I sampled both and they were terrific!

Drive around and explore the local area. We checked into our accommodation at the Blue Bayou (see more on that below) and had lots of time to explore. This is a great area for getting off the Cabot Trail and exploring. If you have time, you can drive all the way to hilariously named Meat Cove, near the northern tip of Cape Breton. It’s about a 45-minute drive each way.

We stayed close by and checked out White Point, including the Normandy-esque white cliffs above. There is a hiking trail here too.

Have dinner at The Markland .  The Markland is one of the more upscale hotels in the area. We were originally supposed to eat at at restaurant that was closed, and this was one of few options in the area. 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.

Where to Stay in Dingwall: Blue Bayou Geodesic Domes

Ever wanted to sleep in a dome? Here’s your chance! The Blue Bayou Resort is a campground near Dingwall on the eastern shore of Cape Breton, right on the ocean. Rather than tents, this campground is filled with geodesic domes (as well as three tipis). Each deodesic dome has electricity, hot water, and a private bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower. Each contains two queen beds or a king bed. Domes from $229 CAD ($170 USD).

After I posted this, the most popular question I got asked was “Does it get hot?” During the day, it gets quite warm inside and smells a bit of plastic — but opening the screened-in windows makes a big difference. At night, it’s much cooler, and you’ll be ready to bundle underneath the covers. There is plenty of hot water, and you can easily get privacy by pulling down the curtains.

Do note that this is not a luxury glamping experience — it’s cool-looking, but simple. 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. I loved waking up to the sound of raindrops the next day.

Find deals on Dingwall hotels here .

Cabot Trail Itinerary, Day Four: Dingwall to Baddeck

On this day, everything changes. You’ve left the Acadian, French-flavored part of Cape Breton and have entered the Celtic part of the island, complete with tartans and bagpipes and kilts. It feels so different from where you’ve been, but that’s the magic of the Cabot Trail. On this day we dealt with a lot of rain, but still managed to have a great time.

Get breakfast at Danena’s Bakery and Bistro . Danena’s is a small diner that doubles as a thrift shop. You can even eat amidst the piles of stuff for sale! We enjoyed a hearty Canadian breakfast here, perfect on a rainy day.

Explore the shops, cafes, and sights along the Cabot Trail. Since it was a rainy day, it seemed like a good opportunity to check out some of the local businesses! Luckily, the town of Ingonish was filled with lots of places to see, and we had been given suggestions from our new friends in Cape Breton.

Groovy Goat is a goat farm and soap company. Their products are made from goat milk, which makes them a good option for sensitive skin. You can buy all kinds of bath and skincare products here, and they operate a petting zoo when the weather is nicer.

Salty Rose’s is a beautiful shop featuring work by Nova Scotia artists. 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.

Attached to Salty Rose’s is the Periwinkle Cafe .  A great place to relax with a hot beverage. They actually had lavender lattes and lavender London Fogs on the menu! I had a lavender latte, but be forewarned — they serve it with lavender seeds on top. I recommend removing the seeds or asking for no seeds on top — they taste too much like soap to me.

Stop at Keltic Lodge for lunch. The Keltic Lodge is home to some of the most high-end accommodation in the region and the best golf course in Cape Breton. It’s also one of the best Instagram spots on the Cabot Trail.

The restaurant features classic Canadian and American dishes — nothing too culturally significant, but a nice solid option.

Go whale watching with Ingonish Whale Tours . We were supposed to go whale watching, but it ended up being too rainy. But if you’re eager to see whales, Ingonish is one of the best spots for whale watching in Nova Scotia.

Check out Ingonish Beach. This beach is rocky until you get to the shoreline, where it’s filled with soft sand. It’s great on a beautiful day, but a moody day will get you some ethereal photos! What I really liked was the sound the water made as it ran over the rocks — such a gentle whisper. Time your visit during high tide if you want to hear it.

Head to Baddeck and visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site .  While I didn’t get to this Alexander Graham Bell museum on our trip, I’ve heard so many good things, including from Cailin — and small, tightly focused museums are my favorites!

Try some beers at Big Spruce Brewing . Breweries are popping up all over Nova Scotia, and Big Spruce is a nice one to visit if you’re in the town of Baddeck. It’s a cozy setting and they have board games. My favorite, not surprisingly, was the Silver Tart, the sour raspberry wheat beer…

Explore Baddeck. Or leave your exploring to the next morning, if you’d like. It’s a small but very pretty town.

Have dinner at Baddeck Lobster Suppers . This fun, friendly, and casual restaurant featured the best deal of our trip. You can choose between whole lobster (obviously), Atlantic salmon, Cape Breton snow crab, or strip loin steak, and you get that, plus unlimited mussels, plus unlimited seafood chowder, plus a dessert, plus a nonalcoholic beverage, plus tea or coffee, for $60 CAD ($45 USD).

Hell yeah, I jumped in. Then I quickly realized that they give you so many mussels that you probably won’t want to order a second serving!

Where to Stay in Baddeck: Inverary Resort

Our final accommodation, the Inverary Resort , was beautiful to look at — all dark wood with white trim and pops of color with Canada’s symbolic red chairs out in the sitting areas. We had a room with two queens for our final night. Rates from $159 CAD ($120 USD).

We had a comfortable sleep and a nice hot breakfast the next morning. And the grounds are absolutely beautiful — so peaceful. I wish I had more time to relax in one of those chairs with a book.

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 didn’t close or lock. The staff moved us to another room, but if you want to stay here, I would request a room not on the floor with the pool and sauna.

Find deals on Baddeck hotels here .

Tips for Driving the Cabot Trail

Brake for moose. Keep an eye out for wildlife constantly, and if you see a moose, hit the breaks. Hitting a moose will likely kill you, as they are tall, weigh a ton, and will fall onto your windshield and crush you. It’s much more dangerous than hitting a deer.

I grew up in Massachusetts and camped in New Hampshire every summer, so “Brake for Moose” has been driven into my head since birth. (Even some guys at my theater camp were in a band called Brake for Moose.) This isn’t common knowledge if you’re not from an area with moose, so please take it seriously. Moose tend to congregate around the Skyline Trail.

Keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists. Especially be cautious when going around those hairpin turns in the eastern part of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Cabot Trail is a very popular spot for motorcyclists especially (and from what I noticed, French-speaking motorcyclists).

Get a Canadian SIM card. Having a phone signal will make your Cape Breton road trip much easier, especially when you’re navigating with Google Maps. I got a SIM card and data plan from Lucky Mobile. Signal is good in the larger towns but often drops out in more rural areas.

Internet is poor in this part of Nova Scotia. Phone signal is weak and often nonexistent, especially in the national park; some places (and hotels) have wifi with very limited reach. Basically, if you’re not within 20 feet of the router, the wifi probably won’t reach you.

If you’re working from the road, I recommend taking time off from work while you’re in Cape Breton. If you must work, I recommend bringing a wifi extender .

Prepare for rain — and don’t let it ruin your trip. You could luck out and have a perfectly sunny Cabot Trail road trip — or you could get a lot of rain. If you’re like us, you could have a mix of sunshine and rain.

But rain isn’t a deal-breaker. Cailin and I used rain as an opportunity to check out cool local businesses in the area — like the Salty Rose in Ingonish. You’ll always find interesting places to explore.

Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is vital for every trip, even in a country that has great healthcare like Canada. If you get injured while hiking, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin. I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Canada.

Best Instagram Spots on the Cabot Trail

So much of the Cabot Trail is beautiful — there are hundreds if not thousands of places where you can take beautiful shots.  But if you’re looking for the VERY best spots for Instagram photos, here are my recommendations:

1. The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  My pick for the absolute best Instagram spot on the Cabot Trail, if not Cape Breton. There are so many interesting shots you can get at the end of the trail, overlooking the mountains. Get the best light by going at sunset.

2. Curvy roads in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Most of the cartoon-like curvy roads are along the 30-minute drive between the entrance at Chéticamp and the Skyline Trail. Don’t pull over unless it’s in a designated parking area where you can pull over safely.

3. Keltic Lodge in Ingonish. The white cottages perched atop the red-brown cliffs are spectacular, whether it’s sunny or rainy. You can get them from another angle (albeit from a distance) at Ingonish Beach.

4. Between the rocks at Ingonish Beach. There is a boardwalk that leads to the beach through high piles of rocks. The symmetry makes for a great Moses-in-the-Red-Sea pose. The rocks make a great texture, too.

5. The moose ears in Englishtown.  Just for laughs! They’re right outside The Clucking Hen Cafe and Bakery .

Cape Breton Road Trip Packing List

If you’re traveling to Nova Scotia during the summer, pack for warm days and cool nights, with extra layers like fleeces and leggings. The weather can change frequently, and almost every day I wore some kind of cardigan, long-sleeved shirt or fleece on top.

Cape Breton is a very casual destination. I needed exactly ZERO nice pieces of clothing. While you might want to bring something nice to wear out in Halifax, you won’t need anything upscale here.

A light hooded rain jacket. A simple windbreaker like this one is easy enough to stash in your backpack and throw on when you need it. Much better than carrying an umbrella.

Hiking gear.  I usually hike in workout clothes; if you prefer something more specialized like zip-off pants, pack them. If you hike with poles, bring them. You’ll want the good stuff if you’re doing challenging hikes.

Hiking shoes. If you’re doing the Skyline Trail, which is pretty level, you can get away with sneakers or athletic sandals; if you’re doing anything more intense, you’ll want hiking boots. I wore my Merrill Siren Edge Q2 Waterproof Trail Runners , which are a great hybrid between sneakers and hiking boots.

Consider a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf .  These beautiful scarves have a hidden pocket in them, which is great for holding onto valuables or cash without carrying a purse. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they come in a variety of weights that work for Cape Breton.

Bathing suit.  It might be a little too cold to swim in Cape Breton — or not! You never know when you’ll need it, and you never know if there will be a jacuzzi somewhere.

A portable safe . This is a great way to lock up your valuables in your accommodation and I consider it the most important thing I pack .

A reusable water bottle . The water is safe to drink throughout Cape Breton and this cuts down on waste.

Insect repellant . Some of the areas get buggy, and you’ll be glad to have the protection.

Where Else to Go in Nova Scotia

Once you finish your road trip in Cape Breton, where do you go next?  There are plenty of options!

Louisburg. Louisburg is home to a historic village in the south of Cape Breton. Historic villages aren’t usually my thing, but I had a great time here (don’t miss the rum tasting!) and it’s definitely worth a stop if you love history.

Peace by Chocolate in Antigonish.  If you’re driving back to Halifax, Antigonish is an easy stop right off the highway. You may have heard of Peace by Chocolate — it’s a chocolate shop run by Syrian refugees who were chocolatiers before they were forced to flee their home country. They’ve built a new business in their new home of Canada. Justin Trudeau even brings their chocolate as gifts to other world leaders.

I loved stopping in and getting to chat with the lovely women. The Gold Bar in particular is SO decadently good! I bought a bunch of chocolate, thanked them in Arabic, and they were delighted and insisted on giving me even more chocolate.

Halifax and the surrounding area. Halifax is a fun city and worth a full day in its right. Ride the ferry to Dartmouth and sample ciders at Lake City Cider . The waterfront is an EXCELLENT place to hang out with a beer and some poutine. And you must try the infamous “ donair ” — a Halifax invention, similar to a doner kebab with a sweet white sauce.

I recommend spending a day doing a loop around the Halifax area. 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.

The Takeaway

When I was younger, I felt like the only destinations worth visiting were the most “exotic” ones.  That’s why I originally went off to Southeast Asia for six months and why I spent years racking up far-flung destinations. Why would I waste my time going somewhere like Canada?

I’m so glad I got over that. The older I get, the more I appreciate the beauty of more familiar places. 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. As for Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail, it reminded me so much of my New England upbringing, then dazzled me with the most spectacular views and lobster.

Nova Scotia is waiting for you. It’s close by. And it’s fantastic.

More Atlantic Canada Adventures:

• Why You’ll Fall in Love with Newfoundland
• Quebec’s Best Islands: Iles-de-la-Madeleine
• Visiting St. Pierre and Miquelon
• My Favorite Experiences Cruising Atlantic Canada
• 5 Stunning National Parks in Quebec
• 1 Week Nova Scotia Itinerary: The South Shore

Cabot Trail Essential Info

Visits at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys are Monday to Friday only and must be booked in advance. Sometimes special arrangements can be made on weekends. $40 CAD ($30 USD) per adult and $20 CAD ($15 USD) per child under 10.

Admission to the Highland Village is $15 CAD ($11 USD) per adult, $12 CAD ($9 USD) per senior and $5 CAD ($6 USD) per child.

Admission to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is $8.50 CAD ($6 USD) per adult and $7.25 ($5 CAD) per senior per day, and free for kids. You can also get an annual Parks Canada Discovery Pass to all the parks for $72.25 CAD ($53 USD) per adult,  $61.75 CAD ($45 USD) per senior, and $145.25 CAD ($106 USD) per family.

In the park, the guided Skyline Trail sunset hike is $29.70 CAD ($22 USD) per participant.

Visiting Les Trois Pignons is free of charge!

Entry to the  Mi-Carême Interpretive Centre  is $5 CAD ($4 USD) per adult and $4 CAD ($3 USD) per senior or student. Painting a mask is $25 CAD ($19 USD) for a preformed mask and $80 CAD ($60 USD) for a papier-mâché mask.

Ingonish Whale Watching has fishing boat tours from $65 CAD ($48 USD) per person and zodiac tours from $65 CAD ($48 USD) per person.

Admission to the Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site is $8.50 CAD ($6 USD) per adult, $7 CAD ($5 USD) per senior, and free for youths.

Rates at Silver Linings Inn  in Chéticamp start at $149 CAD ($112 USD). Find deals on hotels in Chéticamp here .

Rates for domes at the Blue Bayou Resort  in Dingwall start at $229 CAD ($170 USD). Find deals on Dingwall hotels here .

Rates at Inverary Resort  in Baddeck start at $159 CAD ($120 USD). Find deals on Baddeck hotels here .

Travel insurance is vital for every trip, even in a country that has great healthcare like Canada. I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Canada.

This campaign is brought to you by Tourism Nova Scotia and Discover Cape Breton , who covered most of the costs during my time in Cape Breton. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you been to Nova Scotia? Would you like to do this road trip? Share away!

A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: May 8, 2022  - Last updated: February 6, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

If you’re looking for the most beautiful landscapes in Nova Scotia, you need to add the Cabot Trail to your itinerary.

Winding roads through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, charming fishing communities, fantastic restaurants, and endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and waterfall chasing are just some of the reasons you’ll love Cape Breton.

A Cabot Trail road trip has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Yet even though I grew up next door in Newfoundland, it only happened in 2020. But that’s what the year ended up being about – discovering what’s in our own backyard.

This guide will help you plan the best Cabot Trail Itinerary.

This trip was in partnership with the Nova Scotia Tourism board as part of the creator coast campaign. I am so grateful to them for supporting local creators during this time and giving me the opportunity to explore this incredible part of Canada.

Where to Start Your Cabot Trail Itinerary

Depending on what direction you are coming from, there are a few options for where to start your Cape Breton road trip.

If you’re doing an East Coast Canada road trip and coming from New Brunswick, PEI, or Halifax , you’ll take the Canso Causeway onto Cape Breton Island and start in the South. From there, a great first stop is the town of Inverness. It’s just an hour’s drive from the Causeway.

If you’re traveling from Newfoundland on the ferry via North Sydney, start your Cabot Trail road trip in Baddeck, as it’s just a 40-minute drive from the ferry.

If you’re flying into Nova Scotia, you’ll most likely land in Halifax. You can easily rent a car from the airport there – it’s about a two-hour drive to Cape Breton.

There’s also a small airport you can fly into in Sydney, but I recommend renting a car from Halifax so you can explore other areas of Nova Scotia!

It’s also worth spending a few nights exploring Halifax and staying in one of the charming accommodations.

@explorewithlora Is the Cabot Trail on your bucket list? #cabottrail #capebreton #novascotia #scenicdrive #explorecanada #fyp #canadianroadtrip ♬ The Banjo Beat, Pt. 1 – Ricky Desktop

Top Places to Visit in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Inverness cape breton.

Inverness is a beautiful small town, not to be confused with Inverness, Scotland. Although the two share strikingly similar landscapes along with unpredictable weather and a love for good whiskey.

If you’re interested in discovering the whiskeys of Cape Breton, make a stop at the Glenora Inn & Distillery. When you enter Cape Breton Island via the Causeway, take the Ceilidh Trail/Route 19.

It’s a gorgeous road, and you’ll pass right by the Glenora Inn, which is about 10-minutes before Inverness. There, you can tour the distillery, which is home to North America’s oldest single malt whiskey. They also have a delicious restaurant on-site!

Top things to do in Inverness

Golfing in Inverness

The Cabot Trail is home to one of the world’s best golf resorts, Cabot links, where I stayed in Inverness. Honestly, I’d never played golf before this trip – but when in Rome, right?

I booked a golf lesson with one of the instructors there, who patiently taught me as I swung (and missed) more times than I’d like to admit.

After the golf lesson, we drove along the many kilometers of courses at Cabot Links, which is quite impressive.

The golf courses go right along the coastline and in some of them, you are meant to hit the ball over the cliffs/ocean to the hole. My golf skills aren’t at that level yet, but I enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

Inverness Beach and Boardwalk

Inverness has one of the prettiest beaches I found while in Cape Breton. You can stroll along the charming boardwalk, which leads you down to the beach.

When I was visiting, there was no one on the beach because a thunderstorm was looming in the sky, but I’d imagine this place would be packed on a hot sunny day.

I didn’t even know we had beaches like this in Atlantic Canada; the golden sand is so soft to walk on.

I managed to walk a good while on the beach and made it back to my hotel room just in time before the thunderstorm started! I love watching them from the comfort of inside a warm room.

There’s also a beach hut on Inverness beach serving food which I really wanted to try, but sadly it was closed the day I was there.

One of the other content creators on this campaign has written a review of it along with everything else you need to know about eating in Cape Breton.

Egypt Falls Cape Breton

I spent a lot of my time in Cape Breton chasing waterfalls, but Egypt Falls was my favorite. It’s just a half-hour drive from Inverness and a 15-minute hike down from the road.

It’s a steep hike, but there is a rope there to help you get down. I saw families with small children, so it is accessible.

There were a couple of groups of people when I first got to the waterfall, but after a while, I had the entire thing to myself and managed to get my drone up, where I discovered a whole other part of the falls. It’s gorgeous. Hiking back out is a lot harder, but the rope is very helpful!

Gypsum Mine Lake

Gypsum Mine Lake is another popular hiking trail/swimming hole in the Inverness area. It’s just a 20-minute walk to the lake from the parking lot, which is a stunning turquoise color.

You can also climb to the top for a birds-eye view, but unfortunately, it started pouring on me, and I had to make a beeline for my car. You may be sensing a theme here!

Where to stay in Inverness

If you want to treat yourself, book a room at the Cabot Links golf resort . I was hosted here, and it’s one of the nicest hotels I’ve stayed in. If you’re into golf, even better.

This luxury resort has two acclaimed world top 100 courses. But even if you’re not into golf, this place is a treat to stay in. It’s got award-winning accommodations, private beaches, and three delicious on-site restaurants.

For a more affordable option, check out Tullock Inn & Gifts.

Chéticamp

Chéticamp is an excellent place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the many activities in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

It’s just a couple of kilometers away from the park entrance and has great places to stay , wonderful restaurants, and lots of fun things to do.

Things to do in Cheticamp

Cheticamp Whale Watching

You can go whale watching in Cheticamp, which I really wanted to do, knowing that Cape Breton has some of the best whale watching in the world. But as you may have picked up, the weather was not on my side during this trip.

After six days of whale watching tours being canceled due to high winds, one finally went out on my last day in Cheticamp.

However, we didn’t find any whales because the seas were so rough. I’ve been spoiled with whales and puffins in Newfoundland all summer, so I guess I can’t complain too much!

On the bright side, we found some seals, which are so cute to see bopping their heads in the water. And at least I can say I’ve seen Cape Breton from land, sea, and sky now.

The coastline of Cape Breton is stunning to see from the water, so I think it’s worth going whale watching on the Cabot trail regardless.

Also, the whale watching tour operators here are so confident that they will offer you a refund if you don’t see any whales. So, what’s the harm in trying?

Helicopter Tour from Cheticamp with Celtic Air

One of my favorite activities from the trip was taking a helicopter tour with Celtic Air Services from Cheticamp. The sun finally came out for me that day, and the views were unreal.

What made the ride even more exhilarating was that we decided to take the side doors off the helicopter before flying! I’ve been in helicopters before, but this was an entirely new experience.

We flew right over the park and got incredible views of the Cabot Trail, Cheticamp, and the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton, including some secret waterfalls. We even flew over Gypsum mine lake!

It was such a fantastic experience to get a birds-eye view of one of the most beautiful places in Canada. I can’t recommend this experience enough, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Cape Breton.

Must eat: Visit L’abri Cafe Restaurant for brunch/lunch/dinner/all the meals. This place is so good I went here twice. 

Where to stay in Cheticamp

I was hosted at Auberge Bay Wind Suites, which are these quaint seaside self-contained apartments. The inside isn’t luxurious, but it has everything you need for a comfy stay, and the location is perfect.

It’s right in the center of town next to the ocean, which you can see from your bed. There’s also a cute lighthouse just outside of it and an excellent restaurant attached to the rooms.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park has been on my Canada bucket list for so long, and it was well worth the wait.

This park is home to one of the most beautiful road trips in the world, but it’s also full of opportunities for outdoor adventure , including some of the top hikes in Cape Breton.

You need to have a valid Parks Canada pass when you’re inside the park. You can buy them at the entrance just a few km away from Cheticamp.

If you want to go camping on the Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the best place for it. You can stay at one of seven  Parks Canada campsite s – in Cheticamp, Corney Brook, Fishing Cove, Macintosh Brook, Big Intervale, Broad Cove, and Ingonish Beach.

Cabot Trail Hiking

There are 26 hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, so you could spend weeks just hiking here. If you’re interested in doing that, a great time to visit is during the Hike the Highlands Festival, which takes place every September when the fall colors are in bloom.

The most popular hike in the park is the Skyline Trail. Hiking the trail at sunset has become a signature experience in the park, so I went to see what all the fuss is about.

I was running late that day, so I actually got there just after the sun had gone down, but it was still stunning to witness.

The trail itself is easy. It’s a mostly flat, 8.7km gravel loop. There is a boardwalk and stairs at the main viewpoint, where you get incredible views of the Cabot Trail.

If you’re looking for a short trail with fewer people, check out La Chemin du Buttereau. It’s a 4.6km path that takes you through a beautiful forest with glimpses of the Chéticamp River. The trailhead is near the turn-off for the Cheticamp campground.

Parks Canada even has a 10 hikes in one day challenge , which will earn you a souvenir magnet if you show proof at one of the visitor’s centers! There are so many gorgeous hiking trails in Cape Breton; I wish I could have done them all.

Viewpoints in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

You’ll want to stop for photos every two minutes while driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and luckily, they’ve done a fantastic job building lookout points for you to do just that.

One not to miss is the Cape Breton Highlands Lookout which is shortly after the entrance from Cheticamp.

Another fun thing you can do in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is book a Perfect Picnic . You place an order the night before and then pick up the meal, which a local restaurant will prepare. Then you can bring your picnic to a scenic location in the park to enjoy!

Pleasant Bay

The next town you’ll come across driving through on this Cabot Trail itinerary is Pleasant Bay. It’s a small quaint fishing village where you can take whale-watching tours.

I didn’t get to spend a lot of time here, but there are some lovely places to stay and restaurants. Rusty Anchor is a good one. If you want to stay further in the park then Cheticamp, Pleasant Bay is a good option.

Where to stay: A good option is  Mountain View Motel & Cottages , which offers self-contained cottages with kitchens.

Top of the Island – Cape North / Meat Cove

If you want to get off the beaten path from the traditional Cabot Trail itineraries, turn left at Cape North and head up the most Northerly point of Cape Breton.

There’s a town called Meat Cove at the very top, which is home to one of the coolest camping spots I’ve seen in Atlantic Canada. It’s right on the cliff – the name is Meat Cove Campground .

The views here are fantastic, but the road to Meat Cove is rough. It’s a dirt road, and it’s filled with potholes. I drove it in my tiny Chevrolet Cruze, but I was nervous!

Tenerife Mountain Cape Breton

There’s a hike on the way up to Meat Cove called the Tenerife mountain trail. It’s a short but extremely challenging hike that will give you 360-views of Cape Breton Island .

This hike is not for the faint of heart – it climbs almost 200m at the very end, and it’s a scramble up rocks to get to the top.

I hiked this solo and had to give myself a lot of encouragement to make it, but I felt so rewarded when I got to the top. The views are unparalleled to anything else in Cape Breton. There’s even a guest book you can sign!

The entrance to the hike is a bit confusing, as there’s no sign. You turn off at Cape North onto Bay St. Lawrence Road and drive for about 4km.

You will see a small parking area to the right, and the entrance to the hike is across from that. It’s also on Google Maps, although that will take you slightly past the actual trailhead.

On the other side of the Cabot Trail is the town of Ingonish. It’s a great place to stay if you want to feel like you’re inside the park while having the amenities of a town.

Things to do in Ingonish

Ingonish has beautiful beaches, whale watching tours, golf courses, and hiking trails. It’s home to the Franey Trail, which I’ve heard is stunning. Middle Head Hiking trail is another popular one nearby. It seems like I will have to make a trip back to Cape Breton – there just wasn’t enough time for all the hikes!

Ingonish Beach

If you do anything in Ingonish, go to the beach. It’s absolutely stunning! If you want to see the sun over the beach, you’ll have to visit at sunrise, but even the light from the sunset on the other side was gorgeous.

The castle-like building you can see in the background of the above photo is the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands , which is a great option if you want to stay in Ingonish.

Mary Ann Falls

Mary Ann Falls is another beautiful waterfall you can visit in Cape Breton near Ingonish. I stopped here on my way from Cheticamp to Ingonish while driving the Cabot Trail.

The turn-off is well marked with a sign, and then you just follow a dirt road to a parking lot. From there, it’s just a short walk to the falls. There are two viewpoints to admire the falls from!

Baddeck is considered the beginning and end of the Cabot Trail, so it’s the perfect place to start/end your Cabot trail road trip no matter where you’re coming from.

It’s a charming town that was founded in the 1900s. Although it’s small, there are many places to stay and restaurants here.

Things to do in Baddeck

Water Sports on the B’ras D’or Lake

Situated along the shores of the stunning Bras d’Or Lake, Baddeck is the perfect place for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

You can rent kayaks and SUP from the Inverary Resort adventure center and paddle to Kidston Island Lighthouse. Do this in the morning so you can see the reflection of the lighthouse in the water – it’s gorgeous!

Uisge Ban Falls

Another waterfall? Of course. I never stop chasing them! This waterfall is inside Uisge Ban Falls provincial park, which you can get to from Baddeck in about twenty minutes.

There’s a parking lot inside the park, and from there, it’s a half-hour easy walk to the waterfall. There’s a lower waterfall you can easily access, but you can also get to the top part by climbing up. It’s very steep but doable!

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Baddeck is the hometown of Alexander Graham Bell, a renowned inventor best known for inventing the telephone. Parks Canada established the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to commemorate his genius.

Inside the museum, you can learn about the fascinating life of this inventor and see original artifacts, films, and photographs that highlight his scientific and humanitarian work.

Must eat: Baddeck is home to many excellent restaurants, but one I loved was The Freight Shed. It’s right on the water, and they have delicious seafood options including the iconic Nova Scotia lobster roll.

Where to stay in Baddeck

I was hosted at Inverary resort , a lovely place set right on Bras d’Or Lake. If you want to feel like you’re at a cottage – this is the place!

The interior of the rooms could use some updating, but the facilities are gorgeous. There’s a private beach with chairs to relax on, which is the perfect place to soak in the sunset.

My favorite part about Inverary resort is the onsite adventure center, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and boats – you can even rent a floating picnic table!

There’s also an on-site spa where you can treat yourself to a massage, pedicure, or manicure. It was raining one of the days I was in Baddeck, so this was the perfect thing to do. Inverary also has a restaurant on-site that serves delicious food and live music daily.

North River

Another gorgeous spot to visit in Cape Breton is the North River, between Ingonish and Baddeck. There’s not a lot to do here, but the scenery is spectacular, and it’s the perfect place to go if you want to experience kayaking in Cape Breton.

Sydney is the capital city of Cape Breton. If you’re coming from Newfoundland on the ferry, you’ll be arriving in North Sydney which is right next to it.

Sydney has many accommodation options and restaurants, so this can be a good option to stay in if you need to catch the ferry the following day.

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

If you have some extra time on your Cape Breton island itinerary, another great place to visit is the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. It’s a 40-minute drive from Sydney.

There, you can step back in time to see French colonial life between 1713 and 1758. The original site was destroyed, but Parks Canada rebuilt it to 1/4 of its size.

It’s the largest reconstruction of its kind in North America, offering visitors a unique and fun way to learn about this period of history. There’s also a beautiful lighthouse you can visit in Louisberg!

How long to Spend on the Cabot Trail?

I spent a week in Cape Breton driving along the Cabot Trail and still didn’t have enough time to do everything I wanted! Even though the Cabot Trail is just under 300km, most people recommend spending 3-5 days as there is so much to do.

How many days in Cape Breton depends on how many activities you want to do. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, than you could easily spend a week.

While it is possible to drive in one day, this would feel very rushed. I’d recommend spending at least two nights, and more if possible!

Cabot Trail Itineraries

Cape Breton/Cabot Trail One Week Itinerary

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
• Day 2: Explore Inverness in the morning, Depart for Cheticamp in the afternoon (1 hr drive), stay overnight
• Day 3: Explore around Cheticamp, stay overnight
• Day 4: Head into Explore Cape Breton Highlands national park, stay overnight in Ingonish
• Day 5: Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, head to Baddeck in the evening
• Day 6: Explore Baddeck, stay overnight
• Day 7: Depart for home

Cabot Trail Itinerary 3 Days

If you’ve only got a few days to explore the park, I recommend spending one night in either Cheticamp or Plesant Bay and another in Ingonish or Baddeck. This will give you time to see both sides of the park.

You can drive from Cheticamp and Baddeck through the Cabot Trail in three hours, but it’s so beautiful that you’ll want to give yourself a full day because you’ll be stopping so much for photos!

Cabot Trail Tours

If you don’t have a car or just don’t want to drive the Cabot Trail alone, there are a few tours you can join.

This day tour from Sydney is a “mini” tour that shows some of the best highlights along the Cabot Trail, with many look-off stops for photographs and breathtaking viewpoints.

This full-day driving tour from Baddeck will take you with a small group to discover the highlights of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including photo opportunities at St. Ann’s Bay and Kelly’s Mountain.

Best Time to Drive the Cabot Trail

Cape Breton is a destination that can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit Cape Breton is during the summer when the days are long and the weather is warm, making activities such as swimming and kayaking accessible.

Although in the maritime, you are never guaranteed good weather. I visited the last week of August and got quite a bit of rain and wind!

Another great time to visit Cape Breton is when the leaves change color during the fall. It’s one of the most beautiful places to see the fall colors in Canada!

Don’t discount visiting Cape Breton during the wintertime. It’s a perfect place for winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

FAQ: Exploring Cabot Trail

Where is the cabot trail.

The Cabot Trail is on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. It starts in Baddeck.

How long is the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is just under 300km

How long does it take to drive the Cabot Trail?

While it is possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, I recommend spending at least three. There are many sights to see and things to do; you could easily spend one week here.

Why is the Cabot Trail famous?

The Cabot Trail is famous for its breathtaking scenery! The roads wind through Cape Breton Islands National Park along the Atlantic Coastline, offering stunning seaside views at every turn.

What is the most beautiful part of Cabot Trail?

The most beautiful part of the Cabot Trail is subjective, but many find the drive through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with its stunning coastal views and lush highlands, to be particularly breathtaking.

Is Cabot Trail worth the drive?

Absolutely! The Cabot Trail offers a unique blend of spectacular scenery, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Can you do the Cabot Trail in one day?

Yes, it is possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, but to fully enjoy the experience, including hikes, scenic stops, and local culture, spending at least two to three days is recommended.

Are there bathrooms along the Cabot Trail?

Yes, there are bathrooms available at various points along the Cabot Trail, especially within Cape Breton Highlands National Park and at some restaurants and visitor centers.

What is the best time to visit Cape Breton?

The best time to visit Cape Breton is during the summer months (June to August) for warm weather and outdoor activities, or in the fall (September to October) to enjoy the stunning fall foliage.

Where is the best place to start the Cabot Trail?

The best place to start the Cabot Trail depends on your direction of travel, but Baddeck is a popular starting point due to its central location and access to amenities.

What to Pack for a Cabot Trail Road Trip

If you plan to enjoy the great outdoors while road tripping in Cape Breton, here’s what I suggest packing.

• Light hiking boots for the trails. I use La Sportiva Hiking Boots.
• Small backpack for carrying water & hiking essentials on the trail
• Car phone mount so you can see directions easily while driving (there is no service for many parts of the trail, so download them offline on Google Maps, or bring a GPS.  
• Optional: GoPro and car mount for capturing the epic drive!
• Sunglasses – essential for when you are driving into the sun
• Rain Jacket /Wind Breaker – based on my experience, this is essential
• Parks Canada Discovery Pass  – This will get you unlimited admission for 12 months at over 80 parks across Canada. This may be worth it if you plan to visit many national parks, which I highly recommend!
• Insect Repellant – they are fierce in the summertime
• Roadside emergency kit
• Canada Road Map
• First Aid Kit
• Blankets and Pillows – Just in case. It can get cold in Canada, even in the summertime!
• Audiobooks for the road. I love  Audible  for this!
• A  car charger  for charging your devices

Visiting Cape Breton and driving the Cabot Trail is definitely something that should be on your Canada bucket list. It’s such a beautiful part of the country; I can’t believe I didn’t get here sooner. And with so many hiking trails left to explore, I have a feeling I’ll be back again soon.

Traveling to Nova Scotia? Check out these posts!

• How to Plan an Epic East Coast Canada Road Trip [2023]
• Where To Stay In Halifax Nova Scotia
• The Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail
• A Perfect One to Three Day Halifax Itinerary

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Really Really good Tips!! Thank you! My wife and I just bought the tickets to go In September (next month). We have a little dog who always travels with us. I was wondering how pet friendly NS is….

It’s very pet friendly! I was traveling with my foster dog Layla through Nova Scotia. The Inverary resort even gave her a welcome pack!

These are indeed some really good options…I think saving and putting into my list… thanks for sharing 🙂

Glad you found them helpful!

Really need to visit Nova Scotia still! The scenery looks amazing and your photos are making me very jealous!

It’s a beautiful place! Hope you can visit soon!

Your photos from the helicopter look incredible. I’ve really been meaning to visit here! I’m pinning for later. 🙂

Thanks so much – the helicopter ride was the highlight for me! Hope you can visit sometime! 🙂

I was in Nova Scotia with my family years ago. We managed a two night stay at the Keltic Lodge and it was glorious. The drive alone is worth the trip to Cape Breton. Thanks for sharing your tips!

The Keltic Lodge looks awesome! I didn’t get to stay there but the views of Ingonish from there are stunning. Hope you and your family can get back again!

Cape Breton Travel Guide

Cape Breton Travel Offers Celtic Culture, Music and Seafood Galore.

Cape Breton is an island at the tip of Nova Scotia - one of the Maritime provinces in Eastern Canada. Although Cape Breton is part of Nova Scotia, it has a distinct identity. Today, Cape Breton is an island famous for its Celtic heritage, which visitors may enjoy through the music, food and charm of the people. Cape Breton is also home to one of the world's most beautiful drives: the Cabot Trail.

Getting to Cape Breton

Most travelers to Cape Breton arrive via Halifax, Nova Scotia's capital. If flying into Halifax International Airport, you can rent a car and drive three hours to the island of Cape Breton. Access to the island is via the Causeway, which is a short bridge from mainland Nova Scotia to the island of Cape Breton. Sydney, a city on the island's southeast side, also has a small airport.

Cape Breton Weather and Climate / When to Visit

The most popular time to visit is July, August and September; however, spring and late fall still see tourist activity - especially the week in October when the Celtic Colours Festival takes place. Weather can be unpredictable at any time and it's best to pack clothes that can be layered and suitable for different conditions. It can also change quickly; one Cape Bretoner joked to me that it's possible to experience four seasons in a day. Summers tend to be hot and humid, but fog, high winds and cold spells are also common. Fall is a gorgeous time to visit because of the fall foliage, which is vivid and expansive, especially along the Cabot Trail. Spring and winter are less popular, and thus offer travelers the potential for budget travel.

Cape Breton Highlights

Cape Breton has a lot more than just the Cabot Trail and Louisbourg to offer visitors; however, these two are probably the most famous. Nature lovers can whale watch and explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Foodies can gorge on fresh seafood like lobster and crab and other local fare. Music lovers will be surprised at the high quality of entertainment at even the smallest venue. There's also golf, shopping and more.

The Cabot Trail

Named for explorer John Cabot, the Cabot Trail winds around the northern end of Cape Breton island. Drivers or hardy cyclists begin and end at many points in the circuit, but typically tourists do so at the town of Baddeck. The 300 km (185 mi.) long Cabot Trail is famous for the vistas it offers of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Atlantic Ocean and lush landscapes, particularly spectacular in fall. The Cape Breton National Highlands Park is at the trail's most northern points and where the trail reaches its highest elevation. The trail takes a few hours to drive, but tourists generally spend a day or two, stopping in at one or two of the towns along the way.

Accommodation in Cape Breton

The only hotel chains on Cape Breton are in Sydney, which, outside of Halifax, is Nova Scotia's only other city: everyplace else is deemed a town or village. So, visitors for the most part stay at Bed and Breakfasts or local hotels, mostly small to mid-size and privately run. Some accommodation may strike you as on the rustic side and you may find clunky pipes or thin walls, but generally the charm of the proprietor will let you overlook the shortcomings. Visitors will also encounter elegant resorts, like the Keltic Lodge in Ingonish Beach just off the Cabot Trail.

Another recommendation is the Normaway Inn in the beautiful Margaree River Valley. Set on 250 acres of land, visitors may stay in the inn or one of the chalets or cottages. All are within stumbling distance from the Barn, where musicians take to the stage frequently from June through October.

Eating in Cape Breton

If you like lobster, you can eat it morning, noon and night in Cape Breton. McDonalds even serves up a McLobster sandwich, which is a cold, real-lobster sandwich. Other local favorites include crab cakes, seafood chowder (try the Glenora Distillery's), and oat cakes at breakfast or tea. Try a Nova Scotia wine, such as L'Acadie with dinner.

Cape Breton Maps, Pictures and Guidebooks

• Map locating Nova Scotia and Cape Breton
• Cape Breton and Cabot Trail Map
• The Cabot Trail Companion is a CD that gives insider information on the area and its real-life inhabitants.

Cape Breton Events and Festivals

Cape Breton's biggest festival is the Celtic Colours Festival where folks gather to play music and enjoy Celtic culture as well as the fall foliage. Lopsterpalooza is a month-long seafood and lobster extravaganza along the Cabot Trail. The Stan Rogers Festival , also known as Stanfest, celebrates the Maritime-loving musician with a lineup of folk, rock, Celtic and other musical acts.

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Canada

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Driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia

How to See Canada's Fall Foliage at Its Peak

5 of the Best RV Parks in Nova Scotia

A Guide to Canadian Provinces and Territories

New England Fall Festivals

Top Reasons to Visit Canada

Cape Verde: Facts and Information

Guide to Fall Festivals in Canada

The Best Places to Eat Lobster in Maine

20 Maps of Canada

The 10 Best Beaches in New England

Getting Here & Around

Getting here is as easy as 1, 2, 3. One major highway. Two direct flights. Three Atlantic ferry journeys. We may be an Island, but we’re definitely not remote—you’ll find plenty of ways to arrive and get around Cape Breton Island by air, sea and land.

Regular direct flight service is available to the JA Douglas McCurdy Airport in Sydney from Toronto and Montreal with connections to the rest of Canada and beyond. Or travellers may opt to fly into the Halifax Stanfield International Airport where they can drive to Cape Breton Island.

JA Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport

Here are the details of flights into Sydney (current as of April 2023):

Air Canada:

• Sydney/Toronto operates once a day, departing Sydney at 5:30 AM.
• Sydney/Montreal operates once a day, departing Sydney at 4:35 PM.
• Please contact Air Canada directly for flight booking information –   https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home.html#/

Halifax Stanfield International Airport

AIR CANADA :

• Year-Round Daily Service: Toronto – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Montreal – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Ottawa – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Calgary – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Vancouver – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Boston – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: New York (Newark) – Halifax
• Year-Round Service: London, UK – Halifax
• Year-Round Daily Service: Edmonton – Halifax

**For more airlines flying to Halifax, visit: Halifax Stanfield Airport

Your journey to Cape Breton Island will be smooth sailing. Bay Ferries offers an inter-provincial ferry service, offering daily service from Saint John, New Brunswick to Digby, Nova Scotia. Northumberland Ferries will offer daily seasonal service from Wood Islands, PEI to Caribou, Nova Scotia.   Bay Ferries will be resuming International high-speed ferry service between Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in Spring 2022. From each of these ferries, Cape Breton Island is then easily reached by car, tour bus, motorcycle.

Marine Atlantic  offers daily ferry service from Port-aux-Basques and Argentia, Newfoundland to North Sydney.

Cape Breton Island also offers miles of coastline. The Port of Sydney  is a popular destination for many prominent cruise lines and visitors with sailboats or superyachts will find and plenty of ports of sail and marinas  to dock, moor, and explore.

Driving? The North American highway system connects all major routes to Nova Scotia via the Trans-Canada Highway, which leads eastward over the Canso Causeway to Cape Breton Island.

Should you need a lift, there are also bus services and charters into the Island from various locations.

Getting Around

Although it’s easy to get around the Island, make sure to give yourself plenty of time. Time to take in all the scenic vistas. Time to get from the heart of Acadie to Sydney. Time to take in a ceilidh, watch a drum circle, and find an isolated piece of paradise tucked amongst the craggy cliffs.

Taxi Services

• A cabie Transport— Cheticamp— 1-902-224-5069
• Bud’s Taxi – Glace Bay — 1-902-849-4055
• City Wide Taxi – Sydney – 1-902-564-5432
• Crown Taxi – Sydney Mines — 1-902-736-6565
• Dave’s Taxi – Port Hawkesbury — 1-902-631-1510
• District 11 Taxi – River Ryan — 1-902-271-3635
• Dynasty Cabs – Sydney — 1-902-562-5777
• Gerry’s Taxi Ltd – Glace Bay — 1-902-849-7341
• Harper’s Taxi – Port Hastings — 1-902-625-1434
• Ingo Cab – Ingonish Beach — 1-902-285-4523
• Island Taxi – North Sydney — 1-902-794-2224
• Marg’s Taxi – Glace Bay — 1-902-849-8794
• Midway Taxi – New Waterford — 1-902-862-6954
• Sonny’s Taxi – Glace Bay — 1-902-849-1338

Shuttle Services

• Atlantic B&N Shuttle — 1-902-562-9893
• Bannockburn Tours — 1-902-979-2001
• Bay Luxury Shuttle — 1-855-673-8083
• Cabot Discovery Tours — 1-902-623-2780
• Cape Shuttle Service — 1-800-349-1698
• Cape Breton Shuttle Service — 1-902-849-9987
• Carabin’s Bus Service — 1-902-849-4253
• East Coast Shuttle — 1-902-794-1512
• JKB’s Shuttle — 1-902-919-1126
• Maritime Bus — 1-800-575-1807
• Sydney & Cape Breton Taxi Tours – 1-902-549-2625
• Madi G’s Custom Tours — 1-902-563-9080

Transit Services

• Strait Area Transit — 1-833-625-1475
• Transit Cape Breton — 1-902-539-8124
• Victoria County Transit — 1-855-772-0770

Car Rentals

• Discount Car and Truck Rental – Sydney  — 1-902-562-1155
• Budget Car Rental – Sydney — 1-902-564-2610
• Avis – Sydney, Sydney Airport and North Sydney — 1-902-563-2847 or 1-902-564-2611 or 1-902-794-3798
• Enterprise – Sydney  — 1-902-539-6700
• National Car Rental  – Port Hawkesbury — 1-902-625-2951
• National Car Rental –Sydney Airport —  1-902-539-1303

Easy to Find. Hard to Leave.

There are direct flights to Sydney from Toronto and Montreal and from other North American and European cities via those cities. If traveling by ground, the Trans-Canada Highway 104 leads to Cape Breton Island.

Take a picture. Leave your heart. #VisitCapeBreton

5 Day Cabot Trail Itinerary on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful roads trips in the world complete with picturesque coast lines, fresh seafood, local culture and friendly Canadians (if I do say so myself as a Canadian), then you’re going to want to drive the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada!

One of the best parts of our three week honeymoon through the Maritimes was our Cabot Trail itinerary. I loved sitting next to my new husband as we explored the natural beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands.

Growing up in Ontario, I visited the Maritimes as a kid and had always heard that Cape Breton Island was beautiful. Visiting as an adult, I’m so glad to report that it lived up to the hype!

The great thing about the Cabot Trail is there is something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking and camping, love great food or live for rich cultural experiences, you’ll find it all on Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

Forget fall foliage in New England! Drive on up to Cape Breton to experience leaves that are just as stunning but at a discount (thanks to the weaker Canadian dollar)!

I believe this is truly one of the most beautiful places in Canada (maybe the world?), so it should definitely be on your travel bucket list.

Below I’m answering the most asked questions about a Cabot Trail road trip, such as how many days you’ll need for the Cabot Trail, what direction to drive it in and the best place to base yourself.

I’ll also walk you through my full Cape Breton itinerary, plus my advice for where to stay, what to see and where to eat.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Summary: Cabot Trail itinerary for 5 days on Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Island itinerary summary: 

• Day 1: Drive to Baddeck, explore the Alexander Graham Bell museum and enjoy a lobster dinner
• Day 2: Drive to Ingonish (90 mins) with stops along the way to kayak, shop and learn about Gaelic culture
• Day 3: Explore the lakes, waterfalls and beaches around Ingonish
• Day 4: Drive to Cheticamp (2 hours) taking in the views and looking for whales along the way
• Day 5: Explore hikes, lakes, beaches and an awesome bakery near Cheticamp

Keep scrolling for all of the details of this epic Nova Scotia road trip!

Cabot Trail Map

Check out my detailed Cabot Trail route map below where I’ve highlighted things to see, places to eat and accommodation to stay at. You can open up this link on your phone and use the Cape Breton map to guide you on your trip!

Cabot Trail Itinerary Day 1: Baddeck

Baddeck is the most common entry point for the Cabot Trail and a good place to spend a night. To be honest, there’s not a ton to do in Baddeck, so you don’t need more than one night here.

But since you likely drove here from Halifax (4 hours away) or from New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island, it’s the perfect spot to spend the day before you enjoy more of the Cabot Trail tomorrow.

What to do and eat in Baddeck:

PS: All of these points are saved on my map of the Cabot Trail above!

Visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to learn more about famous Canadian inventor and Cape Breton resident, Alexander Graham Bell! AGB is most well-known for inventing the telephone, but he (and his wife!) contributed a lot more to modern technology.

Eat at the Freight Shed Waterfront Bistro . This restaurant was packed when we stopped by for dinner but staff were friendly and the food was tasty. It’s a little pricy, but big portions and nice views make up for it.

Enjoy a late night snack from Tom’s Pizza . You really can’t go wrong with a late night pizza or donair (famous in Nova Scotia) during a Cape Breton Island road trip. We picked this up on our way back to our hotel!

Check out Baddeck Lobster Suppers . Unfortunately, Baddeck Lobster Suppers was closed for the season when we arrived in late October, but I’ve heard it’s a tasty spot in Baddeck!

Wander Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park . Just a short drive from Baddeck is this 1.5 hour hike to a beautiful waterfall.

Where should you stay in Baddeck?

We stayed at Auberge Gisele’s Inn in Baddeck. It was $175 CAD ($130 USD) per night in Oct 2021; click here for pricing and availability for your dates.

The decor was a little old fashioned, but it was a nice, clean place with a large room and friendly service. Breakfast was included in our stay which was convenient, but it was nothing to write home about.

Considering we visited in late October, we were surprised that the hotel was so full. It seemed like most of the hotels in Baddeck were full, so make sure you reserve your Cape Breton accommodation in advance.

Find more great places to stay in Baddeck, Nova Scotia!

Cabot Trail Itinerary Days 2 & 3: Ingonish

On day two of your Cape Breton Island itinerary you’re hitting the road and driving to Ingonish. The drive from Baddeck to Ingonish is about 90 minutes .

Along the way you can visit The Gaelic College to learn more about Gaelic culture on Cape Breton, pick up a souvenir at Leather Works By Jolene, take to the water with North River Kayak Tours, and stop for a snack at the Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery (open seasonally).

With lots to see and do in Ingonish, I’d recommend spending the next two days of your Cabot Trail itinerary here.

Visiting in October, we had most of these Ingonish sites all to ourselves. Get ready for some stunning views!

What to do in Ingonish:

Stroll along North Bay Beach . This was a quick stop for us but it’s worth it to pull off and check out this little rock beach and cove.

Take in the views at Warren Lake . The fall foliage across Warren Lake was really pretty. There’s a cute little bridge you can cross as well as a longer hike if you want to explore further.

Appreciate the might of Mary Ann Falls . It’s a bit of a bumpy drive to get to Mary Ann Falls, but I say it’s worth it! Once there, you can check out the waterfall from the top and take the stairs down to the bottom to feel the power of the falls.

Check out the stunning views at Lakies Head . Lakies Head was probably my favourite stop along the entire Cabot Trail route. It was absolutely breathtaking and easily accessible from the parking lot.

Enjoy Black Brook Cove Beach . We packed a lunch and brought it to Black Brook Cove Beach which was the perfect backdrop for our picnic. It was a beautiful spot and so cool to hear the waves crashing against the rocks.

A few other things you can do in Ingonish that we didn’t get to include hiking the Middle Head Hiking Trail, hiking the Franey Trail, checking out Neil’s Harbour Lighthouse (apparently there’s an ice cream shop inside!), and going whale watching.

There’s also Cape Smokey where you can ski, snowboard or snowshoe in the winter, and ride the gondola in the summer and fall.

The gondola had just opened when we visited Cape Breton but was a bit outside of our budget.

Where to eat in Ingonish:

Main Street Restaurant : This was one of very few restaurants open in Ingonish in late October, so we lucked out that it was a tasty one! We enjoyed great mussels and seafood chowder for lunch, as well as tacos and salad to go for our dinner.

In 2023, Main Street Restaurant was open for the season from mid-May to end of October. Check out their Facebook page for opening announcements if you’re travelling in the off-season.

Salty Rose’s and the Periwinkle Cafe : This cafe is a cute stop along the Cabot Trail for a charming (but slightly overpriced) breakfast. If you’re happy to splurge, you can enjoy a tasty breakfast sandwich and fancy coffee.

They also have a store and B&B connected to the cafe. Don’t miss browsing their artisan gift shop (I wanted to take home everything!) and consider staying with them too.

Salty Rose’s has limited hours in the off-season, so double check their social media pages to see when their shop and cafe are open. Their B&B is open year round (with discounts in the winter).

Ingonish Freshmart : While this grocery store won’t be winning any culinary awards, it’s a great place in Ingonish to load up on some snacks or get picnic supplies for lunch on the road like we did!

Where should you stay in Ingonish?

We stayed at Knotty Pine Cottages in Ingonish and the place was beautiful. We paid $209 CAD ($156 USD) per night in October 2021.

Our little cottage was adorable, had plenty of living space and boasted a gorgeous view of the water. I parked myself right in front of the window while I worked to enjoy it!

Unfortunately, the wifi did not work well in our room. We were pretty disappointed by the runaround the employees gave us about trying to fix it.

Colin walked up to the reception area twice (they didn’t answer their phone or offer to come down to our cottage) and despite his efforts and the promises of the employees, the wifi did not improve.

So while we loved the view, the wifi issue left a bit of a bad taste in our mouths – especially as this was one of our more pricy stays of our honeymoon.

I would still recommend staying here, because the water view and cute cottage were great, but maybe not if you have to be online. And hopefully their wifi connection has improved since our stay!

Find more beautiful places to stay in Ingonish here!

Cabot Trail Itinerary Days 4 & 5: Cheticamp

From Ingonish we’re going to drive around the top of Cape Breton to our next base, Cheticamp. It’s a two hour drive from Ingonish to Cheticamp.

Cheticamp is on the northwest side of Cape Breton Island and is a former Acadian fishing village. We found it more lively than Ingonish, but still quite sleepy compared to most cities and towns.

Along the way from Ingonish to Cheticamp you can whale watch in Pleasant Bay, take in the view from MacKenzie Mountain and visit Benjies Lake.

I’d recommend spending the final two days of your Cabot Trail itinerary based in Cheticamp exploring the sights nearby. From Cheticamp, it’s a 4.5 hour drive back to Halifax.

What to do in Cheticamp:

Enjoy the views from Aspy Fault . Above are some of the sights of Aspy Fault, a fault line that runs through Cape Breton Island and is responsible for most of the epic geography of the region.

I loved seeing Aspy Fault in fall with the changing leaves. There are lots of places to pull over, read informational plaques and take in the views.

Visit The Lone Shieling . The Lone Shieling is a replica of a Scottish farmhouse that would have existed in one of the first settlements on Cape Breton Island.

It’s an easy and short trail through the woods to reach the house, so I would recommend it as a quick stop.

Take in the Skyline Trail . The Skyline Trail is probably the most popular hike on Cape Breton Island, and really the only time we saw more than a handful of people on the Cabot Trail.

We’re not hikers, and it was a pretty gloomy day when we got there, so we chose not to walk it. But we did enjoy the views of the Skyline Trail from the car and various lookout points.

Go back in time at La Bloc Beach . La Bloc Beach is the site of an old Acadian settlement. Plaques in the area will describe the village that used to exist on what is now a quiet beach.

Drive along Cheticamp Island . Take a bumpy drive across the water from Cheticamp to Cheticamp Island to see the lighthouse, enjoy the coast and spot lots of cows.

Stroll up to Gypsum Mine Lake . Gypsum Mine Lake was one of my favourite finds along the Cabot Trail.

It’s a 15-20 minute (relatively easy but a little uphill) walk from the parking lot to a gorgeous turquoise lake surrounded by trees. Besides a few guys driving by on ATVs, we had the lake to ourselves!

Enjoy Margaree Harbour Beach . It was a cold day when we visited, so we didn’t spend much time on the beach. But I loved the sandy scenery and picturesque trails.

Explore Lake-O-Law Provincial Park . Unfortunately, we also didn’t spend much time at this park as it was quite chilly out and we were hungry.

If we had visited a week or so earlier, all of the trees would have been bright yellow, which would’ve made for a very scenic walk.

Sadly, the following places in Cheticamp were closed when we visited in late October, but I’ve heard good things about them: Les Trois Pignons Cultural Center, Flora’s Gift Shop Ltd (under new ownership as of 2023), and Centre de la Mi-Carême.

We also skipped out on Egypt Falls, as apparently the hike down is quite steep and you need to use a rope. But it looks like a very cool spot!

Where to eat in Cheticamp:

L’abri café : L’abri is the most talked about restaurant in Cheticamp and for good reason. It’s a trendy spot with a bit of a high price tag, but I think it’s well worth it.

The service is awesome, the vibes are great and the views are beautiful. I recommend splurging on the steak, which was fantastic, instead of cheaping out on the sandwiches, as they were just so-so.

Aucoin Bakery : Another famous spot in Cheticamp is Aucoin Bakery. Go early and get your fill of fresh pastries and breads!

We really loved their croissants, cinnamon buns and turnovers.

Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery : The Dancing Goat is yet another institution in the Cheticamp area. We stopped by for a lunch of caesar salads (it had been a minute since we had eaten any vegetables) and they were surprisingly affordable and filling.

We also couldn’t resist a slice of cheesecake to go!

Where should you stay in Cheticamp?

We stayed at Cheticamp Outback Inn in Cheticamp and I could not recommend it more highly! We paid $129 CAD ($96 USD) per night in Oct 2021.

This place feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere but it’s really only a five minute drive from the main street.

This was probably our favourite stay in Cape Breton because of the awesome hospitality. The woman who welcomed us was so kind and filled us in on everything to do in Cheticamp.

She even went to Aucoin Bakery to bring us some baked goods as a surprise on our first morning. Plus, the wifi worked very well!  

Find more awesome places to stay in Cheticamp!

Short on time? Cabot trail itinerary for 2-4 days

If you don’t have time for my full 5 day Cabot Trail itinerary, you can definitely still enjoy the Cape Breton Highlands with less time.

4 day Cabot Trail itinerary:

With four days, you can pretty much follow my itinerary above, but just skip Baddeck . This would mean a longer drive straight to Ingonish (e.g. Halifax to Ingonish is about five hours).

3 day Cabot Trail itinerary: 

With three days for your Cabot Trail road trip, you can skip Baddeck and then cut a night from either Ingonish or Cheticamp , since my original itinerary suggests two nights in each.

To decide which one to cut a night from, take a look at the itinerary activities above and prioritize whichever place sounds more appealing.

2 day Cabot Trail itinerary:

For a speedy two night Cape Breton road trip I would spend one night each in Ingonish and Cheticamp . Wake up early so you can make the most of your time on the trail!

Extra time? Cabot trail itinerary for 7-10 days

If you have more than five days to spend on the Cabot Trail, that’s awesome! There really is so much to do in Cape Breton that this itinerary barely covers, like whale watching, kayaking, golfing, hiking, camping and more.

You can easily extend your stay in Baddeck, Ingonish or Cheticamp to spend more time out in nature. If you visit in the summer, there will be lots of activities to take part in.

If you want to explore further, you can head north off the trail past Dingwall and explore more of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. I’ve heard this area is very scenic, but the terrain makes it harder to drive.

You could also spend time in Inverness , just south of the Cabot Trail , which is a great spot for golfing or hitting the beach.

Or you could head east to Sydney and explore more of Cape Breton off of the Cabot Trail route, such as the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, Miners Museum (open seasonally), and Bras d’Or Lake (a UNESCO designated biosphere).

You could take the ferry to Newfoundland and turn your trip into a full Atlantic Canada itinerary . Or really go for it and expand your adventure to a full cross Canada road trip !

Cape Breton itinerary FAQs

Where is the cabot trail.

The Cabot Trail is a loop around Cape Breton Island, which is the most northeastern part of the Canadian Maritime province, Nova Scotia.

The most southern point on the loop and natural start to the trail, the city of Baddeck, is about a four hour drive (350 km/217 miles) from Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia.

What is the history of the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is named after John Cabot, an early European explorer who landed in the Maritimes in 1497. Controversially, it seems John Cabot actually landed in Newfoundland, not Nova Scotia.

However, in the 1930’s, Nova Scotia’s premier wanted to rebrand the province for tourism purposes by leaning into its Scottish history.

So he renamed the area the Cape Breton Highlands and called the loop around it the Cabot Trail. And we’ve been driving it ever since!

When should I visit Cape Breton Island?

We visited Cape Breton Island in October 2021 (though I updated this post in January 2024!) and I thought it was a great time to be there.

October on Cape Breton was beautiful with the fall foliage and there were way fewer crowds than the summer.

However, I think the perfect time to visit Cape Breton Island would be late September . That way, you get the beginning of leaf peeping season and all of the park facilities and seasonal shops and restaurants are still open.

For our late October trip, we found some of the leaves had already fallen and quite a few places were already closed for the season.

How long does it take to do the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is 298 km (185 mi) long and takes about five hours to drive without stops .

However, you’ll want to give yourself way more than five hours to enjoy all of the trail’s beautiful scenery, activities, natural wonders and small towns.

Keep in mind that five hours is just the amount of time it takes to drive the trail. This doesn’t include the time it takes to get to the start of the trail and back.

How many days do you need for the Cabot Trail?

I think 3-7 days is the perfect amount of time to spend on the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, depending on your interests.

If you really love spending time in nature, hiking or getting to know a small town, you’ll find plenty to fill a week on the Cabot Trail.

If you’re not so into hiking or small towns and you’re happy to just see the views from the car, one or two nights on the trail will do.

Can you do the Cabot Trail in one day?

Technically, you can drive the Cabot Trail in one day. However, the best part of the trail is taking your time and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

There are lots of places you’ll want to turn off to see the views, go on hikes or check out nearby waterfalls and beaches. There’s also all of the small towns, shops and restaurants to enjoy along the way.

If you only give yourself one day, you’ll be speeding past all of the best parts of the Cabot Trail .

Plus, you also have to factor in time to get to the Cabot Trail and back. For example, if you’re staying in Halifax, I do not recommend Cape Breton Island as a day trip .

It’ll take you four hours just to get to the start of the trail from Halifax, another five hours to drive the trail, and then four more hours to get back to Halifax. That’s a very long day!

Is it better to do the Cabot Trail clockwise or counterclockwise?

As the Cabot Trail is a loop, you can drive it in either direction – clockwise or counterclockwise.

We decided to drive counterclockwise from Baddeck for a few reasons.

I had read that the road was less windy and the hills more gradual going counterclockwise , and as someone who gets carsick, that was a selling point for me.

But more importantly, we wanted to be as close to the coast as possible .

While there are viewpoints on both sides of the Cabot Trail, it was really nice to drive on the righthand side along the water and easily pull off to take in the coastal scenery that Cape Breton is known for.

Where is the best place to start the Cabot Trail?

The best place to start the Cabot Trail is Baddeck , the most southern point on the east side of Cape Breton Island. From there, you can drive counterclockwise around the island.

Baddeck makes the most sense as it’s the closest point on the trail from Halifax (where you’ll likely be driving from).

If you’d prefer to drive the trail clockwise or you’re coming from PEI or New Brunswick, you can start on the west side of the trail.

Many people will start in Inverness on the west side, though it’s 20 minutes south of the actual Cabot Trail. Either way, you’ll get on the trail soon enough!

Where should you base yourself in Cape Breton?

While there are accommodation options all along the trail, the main bases would be Cheticamp on the west coast and Ingonish on the east coast .

There’s also Baddeck, which would make a good stopping point if you had to drive a while to get to the trail, as well as Inverness, which isn’t technically part of the loop but is another southern rest stop.

If you only wanted one base or had a limited time to visit Cape Breton, I’d recommend basing in Cheticamp as it’s central to a lot of the best sites and a more built up town than Ingonish.

Find lots of incredible places to stay in Cape Breton here!

Is the Cabot Trail dangerous?

In terms of crime, the Cabot Trail, like most of the Maritimes, is definitely not dangerous. Other dangers, like road safety and animal encounters, may be more of a concern.

We did not find it scary to drive the Cabot Trail at all . The road was not very busy in late October, and we never found it too windy or narrow.

There were lots of easy places to turn off to take in the views, so it never felt unsafe to stop. Of course, it’s best to drive during daylight hours and to stay on marked and paved roads.

In terms of animals or other dangers out in nature, we didn’t have any unpleasant encounters. We also didn’t do any long hikes – mostly just short walks from the car (max 30 minutes).

If you’re looking to hike or camp in the Cape Breton Highlands, definitely do your research ahead of time so you can stay safe. There are also Parks Canada information centres along the trail you can visit.

3 things to know before driving the Cabot Trail

Here are three important things to know about driving the Cabot Trail:

1) Phone service is spotty . Be prepared to completely lose service in some areas.

I highly recommend downloading an offline map before you set off.

2) The weather can be pretty wild depending on the time of year . Pack accordingly.

We always had raincoats and sweaters in the car. If you’re camping or going on longer hikes, ensure you have everything you need.

3) At certain points on the trail, bathrooms and gas stations are harder to come by .

And if you travel in the off-season, some of the public park bathrooms will be closed. Plan to refill your gas tank (and empty your personal tank!) whenever you get the opportunity.

One more note about off-season: Many of the local restaurants, shops and accommodations on Cape Breton Island are seasonal and close down for the winter . Some of the hiking and camping opportunities also close.

So if you’re visiting anytime from October to May, double check that the places you want to visit will be open.

Wrapping up: Is the Cabot Trail worth it?

Yes! The Cabot Trail is absolutely worth driving and Cape Breton Island is worth adding to your Nova Scotia itinerary.

It was one of the highlights of our honeymoon in Atlantic Canada and a road trip we will remember forever.

From orange leaves, tumbling waterfalls and rocky coasts to fresh seafood, local art and Canadian history, a Cape Breton road trip should be on everyone’s bucket list.

This is a stunning part of Canada and I’m so glad I, living on the opposite coast, got to experience it.

I hope you enjoyed my guide to all things Cape Breton Island and my 5 day Cabot Trail trip planner!

I’d love to know: Have you ever been to Cape Breton? If not, have I convinced you to add it to your travel bucket list?

Check out these posts to plan your next Atlantic Canada trip:

• 22 Fun Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• What to Eat in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• 42 Photos that Will Convince You to Visit Charlottetown, PEI
• Our Atlantic Canada Honeymoon Itinerary

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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What a beautiful area to spend 5 days on the road. And sounds like some great food too! Congrats on #400! I can’t even fathom that 🙂

Thanks so much! I really appreciate it. And yes, a really beautiful and delicious area!

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Cape Breton Island Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Cape Breton Island. We've got 27 adventures going to Cape Breton Island, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 23 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

27 Cape Breton Island tour packages with 925 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton (11 destinations)

Excellent tour guide....Carol Dobson. She was knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help. She was tireless in her quest to make everyone happy and satisfied. I greatly enjoyed time spent with her. Our bus driver Alex was incredible. Not only did he avoid collision when an oncoming car crossed the midline, and stop carefully I to miss 3 deer crossing the road in front of us, he provided the smoothest ride ever so I did not get motion sickness. First time ever! I greatly enjoyed the entire tour but these two people made it the best tour I have ever been on! Laura Spinazze

Enchanting Islands

It was VERY good ! Tour host was wonderful! Very knowledgeable & helpful Bus driver was very courteous & an excellent driver

• Coach / Bus

Enchanting Canadian Maritimes (10 Days)

Excellent tour, beautiful places. Excellent tour director and coach driver.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Classic, 12 Days, Halifax Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

• Train & Rail

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal

Very rewarding tour! We visited places we would probably never have found on our own. Beautiful country, comfortable hotels. Our tour guide kept things interesting and our motorcoach driver was unflappable. And we were lucky with weather. Moderate temperatures and only one rainy day.

Nova Scotia City Lights & Country Sights

Cape Breton Island Discovery Tour

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Small Group, 12 Days, Halifax Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Canadian Maritimes Adventure

• Coastal Walks
• Hiking & Trekking

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024)

I had a great experience on this Colette tour with Bernadette and Dave. They were excellent guides and drivers, and the tour was well-organized. I would recommend it.

• Ocean Cruise

Eastern Explorer, Maritimes Cruise & New York

• Sightseeing

Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2025)

Atlantic Maritimes & Viking Trail

Enchanting Islands & Circle Newfoundland

Great Atlantic Canadian Experience

What people love about cape breton island tours.

It was an excellent trip!

A very enjoyable trip. The tour director and bus driver where very knowledgeable. Accommodations very nice and the included meals were excellent.

Fantastic trip. Well organised and friendly, approachable staff. Was so easy to see so much more than we could have organised on our own. Met some lovely people. So much fun! Will definitely do a tour again and highly recommend.

• Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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Halifax to Cape Breton drive

Halifax to cape breton road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Halifax to Cape Breton. If you're planning a road trip to Cape Breton, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Halifax drive for about 1 hour

11:03 am   Truro (Canada) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:03 pm drive for about 49 minutes

12:52 pm   New Glasgow stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:52 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:15 pm   Port Hastings stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:15 pm drive for about 50 minutes

5:05 pm   Highland Village Museum stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:05 pm drive for about 45 minutes

6:50 pm  arrive at Cape Breton

driving ≈ 5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Truro (Canada) New Glasgow Port Hastings Highland Village Museum

What are some things to do in Cape Breton?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Cape Breton.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Cape Breton to Halifax drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Halifax? Try searching for places within 4 hours of Halifax .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Halifax to Cape Breton . Or get a full Halifax to Cape Breton flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Halifax well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Halifax!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Halifax to Cape Breton

places to eat

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Dependable Shuttle Services from Cape Breton to Halifax and Back

Travel in the utmost luxury and comfort in our high-quality vehicles. Looking for a convenient pick-up facility from the airport? Worry no more, get in touch with Island & East Coast Shuttle. We are committed to safe, fast and reliable shuttle services from Halifax, Cape Breton to Halifax and back. At Island & East Coast Shuttle, we’re dedicated to giving you a pleasant ride through our safe, comfortable transportation and our friendly service. When you choose us, you can expect:

Are you planning to travel with your furry friend? Contact our pet-friendly vehicle services for travelling with your companion in their respective carrying transit.

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Whether you’re on a daily commute to your job, heading to the airport for a business trip or trying to get to the train station for a weekend getaway, Island & East Coast Shuttle has your transportation needs covered. We service the areas of:

Find out when and where your shuttles arrive and depart , or call us 24 hours a day so we can answer any questions you may have about our shuttle service.

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Ask us about our $5 round-trip discount!

The driving time from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Cape Breton Island is:

4 hours, 2 minutes.

Average driving speed: 56.3 mph Kilometers per hour: 90.6 km/h This is based on typical traffic conditions for this route.

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Map of driving directions from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest .

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Driving time from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island

How long is the drive from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island? The total driving time is 4 hours, 2 minutes .

Your trip begins in Halifax, Canada. It ends in Cape Breton Island, Canada.

If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island .

You can also calculate the cost to drive from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island based on current local gas prices and an estimate of your car's best gas mileage.

If you're meeting a friend, you might be interested in finding the city that is halfway between Halifax, Canada and Cape Breton Island .

Planning to fly a plane instead? You might be more interested in calculating the flight time from Halifax, Canada to Cape Breton Island.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Related links.

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Cape Breton Island

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Driving time calculator

Travelmath helps you find the driving time based on actual directions for your road trip. You can find out how long it will take to drive between any two cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes. This can also help you plan the best route to travel to your destination. Compare the results with the flight time calculator to see how much longer it might take to drive the distance instead of flying. You can also print out pages with a travel map.

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10 Perfect Days Exploring Canada’s East Coast: A Day-By-Day Itinerary

• Explore Canada's beautiful East Coast on a road trip from Toronto to Cape Breton, experiencing stunning views and delicious seafood along the way.
• Visit iconic attractions like Notre-Dame Basilica, Montmorency Falls, and the Bay of Fundy, immersing yourself in the natural and historical wonders of the area.
• End your trip in the charming village of Baddeck, taking in the sights of the Kidston Lighthouse before returning to Halifax for your departure flight. A truly unforgettable adventure awaits!

Canada gets a lot of international attention for the alpine lakes and Rocky Mountains in its western provinces. But there is so much more to Canada’s natural beauty than Banff National Park (although it’s pretty epic).

A road trip through Canada’s southeastern and maritime provinces promises delicious seafood, views of fjords, and memories to last a lifetime. Here’s how to spend ten days exploring the route from Toronto to Cape Breton Island (Canada's coastal gem) .

Travelers can pick up a rental car in Toronto and drive the entire route. Alternatively, they can take the train or bus from Toronto to Montreal and pick up their rental car on day two from Montreal (whatever their budget permits).

Day One: Toronto To Montreal

On day one of the road trip across Canada’s beautiful East Coast, depart Toronto in the early morning and start the journey toward Montreal . The drive takes a little over 5.5 hours, but travelers can make a full day of the experience by stopping for lunch in Kingston, Ontario.

Upon arrival in Montreal, check in at the hotel or Airbnb and then visit Notre Dame Basilica before going to dinner at Lola Rosa .

• Canadian Provinces Visited: Ontario and Quebec
• Top Attraction: Notre-Dame Basilica

Day Two: Montreal To Quebec City

On day two of the trip, rise early and hike to the top of Mont Royal for a scenic view of Montreal from above. Then, it’s time to check out and depart the city for another charming destination in Quebec.

Quebec City is worth the travel time for its historic architecture and rich heritage. Travelers can reach Quebec City in just three hours. Upon arrival, squeeze in a visit to scenic Montmorency Falls.

• Canadian Provinces Visited: Quebec
• Top Attraction: Montmorency Falls

Day Three: Quebec City To Fredericton

If time didn’t permit the previous evening, head to Montmorency Falls in the morning before leaving for New Brunswick. The drive from Quebec City to Fredericton takes approximately six hours. Travelers can arrive in just enough time to explore the city’s Garrison Night Market.

• Canadian Provinces Visited: Quebec and New Brunswick
• Top Attraction: Garrison Night Market

Day Four: Saint John And The Bay Of Fundy

It’s time to reach one of the most beautiful attractions en route – the Bay of Fundy . In the morning, travelers can depart Fredericton for Saint John, New Brunswick. The drive takes a little over one hour.

Visitors can base themselves in the town of Saint John for the night or camp in the Bay of Fundy National Park.

• Canadian Provinces Visited: New Brunswick
• Top Attraction: Bay of Fundy

Related: High Tides & Fossils: What Makes The Bay Of Fundy So Special

Day Five: Saint John To Halifax

Spend the morning exploring the Bay of Fundy National Park either by hiking or going kayaking in the bay itself (as part of a tour). In the afternoon, drive 4.5 hours to Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Check into a charming maritime hotel or bed and breakfast. If there’s time, visit the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site before indulging in a seafood dinner (all sourced locally, of course).

• Canadian Provinces Visited: New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
• Top Attraction: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Day Six: Halifax To Inverness

It’s approximately four hours to drive from Halifax to Inverness. Travelers can take their time having a nice brunch in Halifax or visit Peggy's Cove before departing for Cape Breton Island, the most scenic island in Canada .

Upon arrival in Inverness, visitors can check in to their hotel for the night before hitting the beach.

• Canadian Provinces Visited: Nova Scotia
• Top Attraction: Peggy's Cove

Day Seven: Inverness To Cheticamp

Day seven is the first full day driving the iconic Cabot Trail , the road that loops a whopping 298 km around the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. The stretch from Inverness to Cheticamp is fairly short (just ~50 km) and takes around one hour to complete.

However, there are many beautiful potential stops along the way. Margaree Harbour is an excellent choice, boasting attractions like Egypt Falls and the Gun Hill Lookout (for the best view of Harbour Breton).

• Top Attraction: Le Portage Golf Club

Day Eight: Cape Breton Highlands National Park (And Ingonish Beach)

The next morning, travelers can continue along the Cabot Trail, exploring Cape Breton Highlands National Park. They can choose to visit the many attractions along the route, spend a day hiking on the many trails, or drive straight to Ingonish and lounge all afternoon on Ingonish Beach with views of the Atlantic.

• Top Attraction: Ingonish Beach

Related: Nova Scotia Vs. New Brunswick: Which Is Worth It?

Day Nine: Cape Breton Highlands National Park (End In Baddeck)

Day nine is another beautiful opportunity to continue along the Cabot Trail, this time ending in the village of Baddeck. The village is often considered the beginning or the end of the Cabot Trail (depending on which direction travelers drive), so this is the official end of the trail for this itinerary.

Visitors can see the famous Kidston Lighthouse and take photos of it by the ocean.

• Top Attraction: Kidston Lighthouse

Related: Vacationing In Nova Scotia? Here Are The Best Places To Stay

Day Ten: Return to Halifax For Departure Flight

Day ten is the conclusion of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Canada’s eastern provinces. Travelers will wake up in Baddeck on Cape Breton Island and drive four hours back to Halifax.

Upon arrival in the city, they can return their rental car and, if time permits, explore some of the area’s major attractions before heading to the airport for their flight home.

• Top Attraction: Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

A Toronto to Cape Breton road trip is a great way to explore Canada's East Coast, but there's plenty more to see in Canada, too—especially on a road trip.