Family Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands

Chasing Tartans and Tastes in Cape Breton

Today was a day of delightful discoveries here in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. From solving clues on a Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt to savoring the local cuisine, every moment was a treat for the senses. It’s amazing how much you can experience in a single day when you embrace the spirit of adventure.


Explore Sydney, Cape Breton with a self-guided scavenger hunt: Discover landmarks, solve challenges, and uncover hidden gems in this interactive adventure.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at the Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery (Seasonal may- October). The name alone was enough to pique our interest, and the cozy, chicken-themed decor inside made it even more charming. The kids, especially Alessia, were immediately captivated by the quirky atmosphere. I ordered a classic snow crab sandwich on porridge bread, while Pieter opted for the hearty clam chowder. Alessia, of course, chose a chocolate chip cookie the size of her face, and promptly declared it the best cookie ever. It was a perfect start to the day, fueling us for the adventures ahead.


Discover Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery on Cabot Trail: A charming spot for fresh pastries and hearty meals amidst Cape Breton's stunning landscapes.

After breakfast, we embarked on the Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt. It was a fun way to explore the area, with clues leading us to various landmarks and hidden gems. Alessia was particularly enthusiastic, her little legs carrying her with surprising speed as she searched for each new location. Pieter, ever the engineer, enjoyed deciphering the clues, while I took my time soaking in the beautiful scenery around us. The scavenger hunt was a fantastic way to get acquainted with the local history and culture, turning our exploration into a playful learning experience.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand destinations, but in the simple joys of discovery and connection along the way.

For lunch, we headed to The Arduaine Restaurant and Lodge, nestled within the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands. The restaurant offered stunning views of North Bay, with an open concept dining room that was both elegant and inviting. We decided to dine al fresco, enjoying the crisp autumn air and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape. The menu showcased the best of Atlantic Canada's cuisine, and we savored every bite of our meal. Pieter and I shared a plate of fresh seafood, while Alessia happily munched on her fish and chips. The Arduaine was a true culinary highlight, offering not only delicious food but also an unforgettable dining experience.


Discover exquisite Western cuisine at The Arduaine Restaurant and Lodge in scenic Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia – where culinary delight meets stunning views.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Tartans and Treasures. As someone with a keen interest in history and culture, I was excited to explore this shop, known for its wide selection of Scottish and Irish products. Stepping inside was like entering a different world, filled with colorful tartans, cozy woolens, and unique Celtic treasures. I found myself drawn to a beautiful tartan scarf, its intricate pattern telling a story of heritage and tradition. Pieter, ever practical, admired the craftsmanship of the wool blankets, while Alessia was fascinated by the Claddagh rings made in Scotland. We spent a good hour browsing the store, learning about the different clans and their significance. I even found a small, beautifully crafted music box for my mother, a perfect souvenir to remind her of our trip.


Explore Tartans and Treasures in Dingwall, Nova Scotia - a unique store offering authentic Scottish goods and local crafts along the scenic Cabot Trail.

As evening approached, we made our way to Kiju's Restaurant for dinner. Located in Sydney, it was a bit of a drive, but well worth it. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with friendly staff and a menu featuring Canadian cuisine. We started with the seafood chowder, a creamy and flavorful soup that warmed us from the inside out. For our main courses, Pieter chose the lobster pasta, while I opted for the pan-fried haddock. Alessia, predictably, went for the kids' menu, happily devouring her chicken nuggets and fries. The food was delicious and comforting, the perfect way to end a busy day of exploration.


Experience exquisite dining at Kiju's Restaurant in Membertou, where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.

During dinner, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, our last day in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We’re planning to visit the Marconi National Historic Site, a place that Pieter, with his software engineering background, is particularly excited about. I’m looking forward to learning more about the history of wireless communication and seeing the site where Marconi sent the first transatlantic wireless message. We also plan to stop by the Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery for breakfast, a place that several locals have recommended for its artisanal sandwiches and soups. And, to cap off our trip, we’ll be having dinner at the Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages, hoping to enjoy a taste of local cuisine in a charming setting.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our cozy rental cabin, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the thrill of the scavenger hunt to the warmth of the local hospitality, Cape Breton has truly captured our hearts. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature, immerse yourself in rich culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And, as much as I’m looking forward to our adventures tomorrow, I know that today will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a day of simple pleasures, shared laughter, and unforgettable moments – the essence of a perfect family vacation.

Tomorrow marks the end of our adventure in Cape Breton, but I am already looking forward to returning. The blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality has left an indelible mark on our hearts. Cape Breton is a place where memories are made, and I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with my family.

As I reflect on today, I am reminded of a quote by the great Italian writer, Cesare Pavese:

“We do not remember days, we remember moments.”

And today, we created so many beautiful moments that I know we will cherish for years to come. Goodnight from Cape Breton!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention, I forgot to pack my raincoat. Luckily, the weather was on our side today, but I’ll definitely need to remember it for future trips! Also, I wish I had brought my binoculars for bird watching. I saw so many interesting birds today, and I would have loved to get a closer look. Oh well, next time!

Looking back on our day, it strikes me how travel, much like translation, is about bridging gaps. As a translator, I connect people through language; as a traveler, I connect with people and places through experiences. Both are about understanding, empathy, and a willingness to explore the unfamiliar. And sometimes, a little bit of tartans, treasures and tastes thrown in for good measure.