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Top 3 Scenic Drives along Nova Scotia Ultimate Cabot trail on Cape Breton Island

The 298-kilometer-long scenic cabot trail drive is a combination of roads, paths, and stairs. You can find some of the most breathtaking scenery along the way. In fact, it is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives. But before you head out on your journey, check for road closures or detours. If they occur, reduce your speed and prepare to stop at a later time.

1. Ingonish Beach

Ingonish beach on cabot trail
Credit: Cape Breton Island

For those interested in experiencing the world-renowned Cabot Trail, Ingonish is a great destination. The town offers a range of accommodations, including lodges, chalets, and inns. Guests can walk to the beach from their accommodations or take the 3 minute stroll through a wooded path to access the beach.

The town of Ingonish is a charming seaside resort, with spectacular coastal and mountain views. There is also a variety of activities to enjoy while visiting Ingonish. Visitors can enjoy saltwater and freshwater swimming at Ingonish Beach, and take part in kayaking tours or other activities in the sand.

Ingonish is also home to a café called the Salty Rose. The cafe serves fair trade coffee and serves locally sourced food. There is a full service area in the town, including a grocery store, bank, and liquor store. The town also has two gas stations, a taxi service, and a variety of artisan shops.

Visitors can enjoy views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the scenic headland. The headland is home to a number of animals, including moose, bald eagles, and bears. The area is also home to numerous boreal birds. However, it’s important to remember that the area is extremely fragile, so dogs should not be allowed.

2. Lone Shieling

what is Lone Shieling
Credit: JULIA SUMANGIL

The Lone Shieling is a historic Scottish-style sheep crofters hut located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It was constructed in 1942 and is one of the oldest structures in the park. It is a federally recognized heritage building. Its significance to history makes it an important stop for visitors to the Cape Breton Highlands.

The Lone Shieling is a historical site on the Cabot Trail that pays tribute to the region’s Scottish heritage. In the past, farmers would build stone shepards huts for their flocks. Today, visitors can tour the hut and wander the pathways surrounding it.

The Lone Shieling is located in a section of 4,000 acres of protected hardwood forest. This area is home to many species of trees, including sugar maples, as well as red and white spruce. It is also home to millions of seedlings of sugar maple.

The Lone Shieling Cabot trail is open all year. However, full visitor services are available from mid-May to mid-October. Parks Canada Visitors Centres in Cheticamp and Ingonish offer information on trail safety. Visitors can also purchase maps and other hiking supplies at these sites.

Hiking along the Cabot Trail is a popular activity in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are four short trails and one long hike, and all of them are relatively easy. Locals recommend the “Off Cabot” hike near Neil’s Harbor, which follows the shoreline. Hiking along the Cabot Trail is a great way to get to know a new part of the area.

3. Uisge Ban Falls

The Uisge Ban Falls is located in Nova Scotia, near the town of New Glen. The waterfall is a popular hiking destination for those who enjoy nature. The trail leads to a picnic area and offers breathtaking views of the waterfall.

Hiking in the park is very easy. The falls are surrounded by beautiful hardwood forests. The trail is a 1.5-kilometer round-trip hike that includes a spectacular waterfall. This park is well maintained and includes restrooms, picnic tables, and interpretive signage. You should plan to spend about 1.5 hours hiking the trail to the falls, which is not difficult.

To enjoy the falls, you should plan your visit during the spring when the waterfall is at its most beautiful. You can get a great photo opportunity when you are close to the waterfall, which gives off a fresh waterfall smell. If you want to take photos of the waterfall, it is best to visit early in the spring, when the water levels are lower. While the waterfall is stunning in all seasons, it can be challenging to capture in a single photo.

The trailhead at the Uisge Ban Falls is easy to find. There are picnic tables and outhouses, and the trailhead is only 5-10 minutes from Highway 105. If you need a quick snack, you can stop by the Irving/Tim Hortons located just before the Baddeck exit. The park is situated inside the Uisge Ban Provincial Park.

Cabot Trail In Nova scotia also has beautiful campground and some of them are located in Ingonish and Indian Brook at Cabot Shores.

Ingonish campground

Ingonish campgrounds on cabot trail
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia

During the summer months, thousands of cyclists tackle the Cabot Trail under pedal power. Although it is not a long ride, there are some sections that are more challenging than others. Also, the lack of wide shoulders means that there can be some hairy moments. This is why it is important to pack essential camping gear.

The Ingonish Beach Campground is located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and is only a ten-minute walk from the Ingonish Visitor Center. The campground is near Ingonish Beach, which is one of the best beaches in the area. Additionally, it is possible to swim in the freshwater lake in the campground, which is much warmer than the ocean.

The campground is a mix of waterfront and forested sites. The level of privacy varies, but some sites are spectacular. There are also sites with direct access to the ocean, which makes them a great choice for those who enjoy water views. However, it is important to remember that these sites do not have electric or sewer hookups.

For those looking for a more rustic camping experience, consider Corney Brook campground. This site is close to the beach, and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park is located on the top of Cape Breton Island and can be reached via the Cheticamp or Ingonish entrances.

People generally have a questions in mind before they make plans, how long to drive the Cabot trail? is the Cabot trail scary to drive? To answer it, here are the ways to travel on Cabot trail.

Traveling the Cabot Trail in One day

A day trip along the Cabot Trail is a great way to see this scenic route. The 186-mile route winds its way around Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and passes through the breathtaking Cape Breton Highlands. Whether you’re driving or hiking, you’ll find a lot to see and do along the way. It’s best to give yourself at least three to five days to complete the entire trip, so that you can enjoy the beauty of the area.

While the Cabot Trail looks manageable on a map, it’s actually quite long, and it’s a great idea to start early in the morning so you don’t get caught in traffic. Getting out early will also let you take advantage of more scenic lookouts. Though the Cabot Trail is easily doable on a day trip, some travelers prefer to spend two or three days driving it.

One of the towns on the Cabot Trail is Cheticamp, which is home to almost four thousand people. There’s a strong French influence in the area, and the town has a substantial Acadian community. In addition, the town is the second entrance/exit for Highlands National Park, and there’s a campground and park information here.

A day trip down the Cabot Trail can be an enjoyable adventure, but it’s also important to find a place to eat on the Cabot Trail. Most towns have a number of dining options, but smaller towns might only have one or two. It’s best to check out their hours and menu options before making the trip. You can also travel Cabot trail itinerary 2 days.

Driving the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle

Driving the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle is one of the best ways to explore the untouched beauty of Cape Breton. It is a breathtaking experience that is sure to impress. This route is about 200 miles long and clings to the cliffs of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The ride is also known for its spectacular views.

After World War II, the Cabot Trail was developed as a motorized route, and is now a popular destination for Americans and Canadians alike. There are many options for riding the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle, including organized tours. However, it is important to consider the weather conditions of each destination. The summer months are generally mild, with plenty of sun, but temperatures can drop by the end of September.

Once you’ve reached Cape Breton, the Cabot Trail road continues through Neil’s Harbour. The road continues on to Lakies Head, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Atlantic. Further on, you can visit the famous Ingonish Beach, where the salt and fresh water meet. After leaving the town of Cape Breton, you’ll be surprised to see the spectacular scenery along the way.

The Cabot Trail is best ridden in a clockwise direction. It is a beautiful ride through classic Canadian scenery, with some steep cliffs and twisty roads. If you’re not into riding on the road with other vehicles, you can choose a slower pace. The slower pace allows you to take your time and enjoy the sights along the way.



Good
Based on 248 reviews
Sandy Soule
Sandy Soule
February 21, 2023.
Stayed in the Blue Cabin -- cozy but adequate for our family. Dinner was surprisingly delicious, including tasty fresh salad with beets and whipped feta, perfect mussels, and delicious salmon and steak. Friendly staff and excellent guitar music (live). Tasty buffet breakfast included frittata, homemade yogurt and jam, home-baked bread and more. In short, the food and live music were outstanding, the accommodations just adequate.
Gabrielle Ventura
Gabrielle Ventura
February 19, 2023.
If only I could rate them more than 5 starts, I really would.. This is our 2nd time in Cabot Trail and we will definitely be staying here again when we visit Cape Breton this fall! The Yurts we’ve stayed in were always so clean and beautiful. The owner, Paul, accommodated us so kindly with all our needs and more. It felt like we were just visiting a relatives home lol. The staff, most especially Katie, were so patient and helpful to us. Everyone here just goes above and beyond for their customers! I would recommend this to anyone who plans to visit Cape Breton. BONUS: THEY’RE OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND! ANOTHER BONUS: THEY HAVE THE BEST CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE (Made by Paul’s wife)!!!!
Lisa-Steven Sisson-Gledhill (HillSun)
Lisa-Steven Sisson-Gledhill (HillSun)
December 31, 2022.
Wish we could give more stars 🌟 Service was top notch! Everyone was friendly, accommodating and informed about local interests. Food was mouth watering- recommend the seafood and homemade yogurt. Waves each morning were breath taking...highly recommend asking to do local hikes. Kids enjoyed games, sauna, hot tub and rooms felt very spacious. Will definitely return!
Clare Waque
Clare Waque
December 16, 2022.
I attended a wilderness healing retreat and that experience completely changed my life. The low reviews are not a far representation of the authentic and high value experience being offered.
Annshani Fernando
Annshani Fernando
December 15, 2022.
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful resort and would recommend it to nature lovers. Big shoutout to Paul and his family for going the extra mile to make us feel comfortable.
Varuna Indraratne
Varuna Indraratne
December 12, 2022.
We spent three nights attending a relative’s wedding in early September at this wonderful resort conveniently located right on the world-famous Cabot Trail. We stayed in one of the main lodge rooms which had spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean from the window. The resort has a vast property overlooking beach that also includes an apple orchard and organic vegetable garden leading to the shores of the Atlantic. The amazing staff led by the owners Paul and Barbara are very hospitable, friendly and helpful. The food at the wedding reception prepared by the in-house team was so delicious. There are also plenty of options for breakfast and lunch nearby serving a variety of cuisines with Cape Breton flair and friendliness. We highly recommend the Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort for anyone planning a visit to Cape Breton Island!!!
Uthpala M
Uthpala M
December 11, 2022.
We had our wedding at this beautiful venue in September, 2022. Our experience was amazing. Paul, Barbara, and the crew was super helpful from the planning stage all the way until we checked out after the event. The location of this property is unbeatable. We had our wedding ceremony in between two chalets - Red and Blue - overseeing the Atlantic Ocean. We booked three chalets and rooms at the main lodge for our guests and some of the guests rented yurts. The crew at Cabot Shores organized a bon-fire on the night before the wedding and organized a cookout with brick-oven pizzas that was out of this world! The food for the wedding was prepared by the chef of Cabot Shores - Ron - and it was superb. Paul and Barbara also organized local musicians for the event and Flo and her group was fantastic! We have nothing bad to say and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of the staff and the natural beauty of the location. We highly recommend this lovely place to anyone planning their wedding or vacation.
Ruwanthika Premalal
Ruwanthika Premalal
December 11, 2022.
We stayed for 3 days at this amazing resort during the end of summer 2022. A great resort with many activities and you can easily access the Cabot shore trail. There are many close by boutique restaurants too for breakfast, brunch or lunch. But you definitely need to try resort's food too which might come from there organic garden to your plate. Their wood fired pizza is so good. During the last day at our stay, we had a wedding of one of our close friends, at the resort. The food was so delicious. The staff was really helpful. I love their compost bin, vegetable beds and mushroom garden too. They have so many isolated yurts which is really great for star gazing and to see the milky way. The little ferry at the river is such a great way to reach the private beach of the Atlantic ocean. We are visiting again, hopefully next year!
Jangchub Zangmo
Jangchub Zangmo
November 29, 2022.
a wonderful place to get out into nature and meet like minded people

Excellent
Based on 50 reviews
Lukas
Lukas
September 21, 2022.
Verified
Very nice people and a place full of joy ! Stayed 2 nights in the „Eagle dome“ which was really comfy and clean! Had really delicous dinner at the main lodge where paul played some music just for us and had nice conversations whith him and the other staffmembers. Also booked the hot tub at our dome for our last night from where we had a great view on the campfire. Lovely place where you see how much effort they put in every detail.
Nicole
Nicole
August 22, 2022.
Verified
Amazing adventure! Lots of fun sleeping underneath the stars!
Ryan
Ryan
August 14, 2022.
Verified
Relaxing
Nigel
Nigel
July 25, 2022.
Verified
Beautiful place and very friendly staff. Perfect location if you’re travelling along the Cabot Trail, I highly recommend checking this place out! Would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a fantastic experience.
Anooj
Anooj
October 25, 2021.
Verified
This was our first time staying in the Eagle Dome and we absolutely fell in love with this beautiful place. Super clean place to stay!
Redwan
Redwan
October 17, 2021.
Verified
Very nice place to spend a couple of nights in the nature! My wife and I enjoyed our stay. It might be a good idea to install a heater in the dome as it can get chilly at night.
Brooke
Brooke
October 1, 2021.
Verified
Beautiful, quaint place to stay! So unique and off grid. We loved staying at the dome!
Madison
Madison
September 9, 2021.
Verified
We had a great stay in the Eagle Dome! We loved watching the sunset and sunrise, and being able to hear the waves from the ocean. Next time we would stay a few more days and prepare a bit better - we weren’t packed for off grid but we made it work. Outhouse was a few steps away, shower and toilet a short walk. We didn’t get the hot tub or use the sauna/other amenities but would certainly consider it next time.
Micayla
Micayla
August 16, 2021.
Verified
This place is absolutely beautiful! We loved our stay here. I highly recommend it. All the staff are very friendly. The dome was such a unique experience looking at the stars and watching the sun rise. The beach is beautiful and there’s a little swimming spot 2 minutes down the road that we really enjoyed 🙂

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