Family Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands

A Symphony of Scenery and Flavors

Today was nothing short of magical. We embarked on a journey along one of the world's most celebrated scenic drives, and every moment felt like a postcard come to life. From charming cafes to breathtaking vistas, Cape Breton has truly captivated our hearts.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery ( Seasonal may- October). The cafe was incredibly cozy, adorned with delightful chicken-themed decor that immediately made Alessia giggle. I ordered their famous snow crab sandwich on porridge bread, while Pieter went for a classic breakfast platter. Alessia, of course, opted for pancakes, which she devoured with impressive speed. The food was delicious, but what truly made the experience special was the stunning view from the patio. We could see the Cabot Trail winding along the coast, promising a day of adventure. It's the perfect way to start a day of adventure along the Cabot Trail.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail: a scenic loop through highlands, coastlines, and vibrant cultural communities.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Cabot Trail. The drive itself was an attraction, with every turn revealing a new, breathtaking panorama. The fall foliage was just starting to show, with hints of red and gold painting the hillsides. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to snap photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. Pieter, ever the patient one, simply smiled and let me indulge my passion for photography. Alessia, on the other hand, was more interested in spotting wildlife. She was convinced she saw a moose hiding in the trees, but it turned out to be a rather large rock. Still, her enthusiasm was infectious.

As we drove, we listened to traditional Celtic music, trying to immerse ourselves fully in the Cape Breton culture. I even attempted to learn a few Gaelic phrases, much to Pieter's amusement. Alessia, surprisingly, picked up the pronunciation much faster than I did. Perhaps I need to start practicing my Italian with her more often!

The road is life. - Jack Kerouac

For lunch, we stopped at the Highland Breeze Bistro. This charming spot offered stunning views and a menu packed with local favorites. I chose the grilled salmon salad, while Pieter had the Highlands cod burger. Alessia enjoyed a simple grilled cheese from the kids' menu. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

After lunch, we continued our drive along the Cabot Trail, stopping at various viewpoints to soak in the scenery. The crisp autumn air, the vibrant colors, and the stunning coastal views created an atmosphere of pure magic. We even stumbled upon a hidden beach, where Alessia spent a happy hour collecting seashells and building sandcastles. It was one of those perfect family moments that I know we'll cherish forever.

One of my favorite stops was at Flora's Cabot Trail, a local shop brimming with unique crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a hand-knitted scarf, a reminder of our time in Cape Breton, and a small wooden toy for Alessia. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when we travel, as it helps to preserve the unique culture of each place we visit. This area is known for local artisans.


Discover the sweet taste of Nova Scotia at Flora's Cabot Trail, your go-to ice cream shop along the scenic Cabot Trail.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the Cedar House Bakery & Restaurant for dinner. This cozy restaurant is known for its home-style cooking and freshly baked goods, and it did not disappoint. We started with their famous seafood chowder, which was rich, creamy, and packed with seafood. For our main courses, Pieter chose the roast turkey dinner, while I opted for the pan-fried fish. Alessia, predictably, went for spaghetti and meatballs. The food was comforting and delicious, the perfect way to end a long day of exploring.


Experience authentic Canadian flavors at Cedar House Bakery & Restaurant in Boularderie East—home to the best scones on Cape Breton Island.

The Cedar House Bakery & Restaurant is known for home-style cooking and freshly baked goods. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. We couldn't resist indulging in their homemade desserts. I had a slice of chocolate cake with boiled icing, while Pieter chose the cinnamon rolls with buttercream frosting. Alessia, of course, had a scoop of ice cream. Every item was delicious and a testament to Cape Breton hospitality.

As we drove back to our cabin, the sky was ablaze with color. The sunset over the Cabot Trail was a sight to behold, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such beauty with my family. Cape Breton has a way of weaving its magic, and I know we'll carry its spirit with us long after we leave.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault and The Lone Shieling. I'm particularly excited about the North Mountain look-off, as I've heard the views are simply spectacular. Pieter is looking forward to visiting The Lone Shieling, a replica of a Scottish crofter's hut, as a nod to his Dutch-Scottish heritage. We'll start the day with breakfast at Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza , and I'm already anticipating another day filled with adventure and discovery.

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Unknown. It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, as I believe that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing life to the fullest. And today, on the Cabot Trail, we certainly did that.

Goodnight from Cape Breton!