Family Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands

A Day of Nature's Wonders and Local Treasures

Today was a beautiful blend of nature's splendor and local charm. From the soothing sounds of a waterfall to the delightful flavors of Cape Breton cuisine and the unique finds in a local craft shop, every moment was a new experience. It's days like these that remind me why we embarked on this family adventure, creating memories that we'll cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Danena's Bakery & Bistro in Dingwall. The aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air as we stepped inside, and the cozy, rustic atmosphere immediately made us feel at home. I opted for a classic breakfast sandwich, while Pieter chose the fish chowder, a local favorite. Alessia, of course, went straight for the cinnamon rolls, which she declared were the best she'd ever tasted. The staff were incredibly friendly, adding to the warm and inviting ambiance. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park. The drive itself was a treat, with the vibrant fall foliage painting the landscape in hues of red, orange, and gold. As we approached the park, the anticipation grew, and Alessia couldn't contain her excitement, peppering us with questions about the waterfall.

The trail to Uisge Bàn Falls was a relatively easy 1.5-kilometer hike, making it perfect for a family outing. The path wound through a beautiful forest of beech, maple, and birch trees, their leaves creating a colorful canopy overhead. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a chance to reconnect with nature and each other.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

As we neared the falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building our anticipation. And then, there it was – Uisge Bàn Falls, a stunning 15-meter waterfall cascading down a granite gorge. The sight was truly breathtaking, the white water contrasting beautifully with the dark rocks and colorful foliage. We spent some time admiring the falls from various vantage points, taking photos and simply soaking in the beauty of the scene. Alessia was particularly fascinated, pointing out the different colors in the rocks and the way the water sparkled in the sunlight.


Hike to a spectacular waterfall in a granite gorge at Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park, a natural gem near Baddeck, Cape Breton Island.

After our waterfall adventure, we were ready for lunch, so we headed to Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub in Ingonish. This spot offered a varied dining experience. Pieter was keen to check out the Thirsty Hiker Pub, drawn by the promise of a friendly bartender, cheap drinks, and live music. I was more interested in the Crofter's Table Restaurant, hoping for some delicious local cuisine.

The reviews of Crofter's Table were mixed, with some praising dishes like the seafood linguini, while others noted disappointments like overcooked steak. However, we decided to give it a try, and we were pleasantly surprised. I ordered the seafood linguini, and it was indeed delicious, packed with fresh seafood and bursting with flavor. Pieter opted for the Thirsty Hiker Burger, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Alessia, of course, was happy with the children's menu options. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the service was friendly and efficient.

With our appetites satisfied, we made a stop at the Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop. I always enjoy browsing local craft shops, searching for unique souvenirs and gifts. This shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, local artwork, and unique souvenirs that reflected the area's vibrant culture and natural beauty.


Explore the charm of Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop, where local artistry meets the stunning scenery of Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail.

I was particularly drawn to the pottery, admiring the intricate designs and the skill of the local artisans. Pieter found a beautiful hand-carved wooden bowl, which he thought would be perfect for displaying fruit in our kitchen back in Haarlem. Alessia, of course, wanted everything she saw, but we finally settled on a small, hand-painted wooden bird, which she promptly named Pip. The shop was a delightful place to browse, and we left with some lovely mementos of our time in Cape Breton.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our cozy rental cabin, reflecting on the day's adventures. We had experienced the beauty of Uisge Bàn Falls, savored the flavors of local cuisine, and discovered unique treasures in a local craft shop. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and connection, a day that perfectly captured the spirit of our family adventure in Cape Breton.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore St. Ann's Provincial Park. I'm looking forward to more hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of this incredible island. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Main Street Restaurant for breakfast, Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages for lunch, and Morrison's Restaurant for dinner. And, if we have time, Pieter is hoping to check out Governors Pub & Eatery for a taste of the local nightlife. It's hard to believe we only have a few days left on this trip. Time really does fly when you're having fun!

Before I sign off for the night, I wanted to share a little something about why I love these trips so much. Back in Matera, Italy, where I grew up, we were surrounded by history and culture, but nature was always a bit distant. Moving to Haarlem with Pieter opened my eyes to a different kind of beauty – the serene landscapes of the Netherlands. But Cape Breton? This is something else entirely. It's rugged, it's wild, and it's absolutely captivating. Seeing Alessia connect with nature like this, it fills my heart with joy. I hope these experiences shape her into a curious and adventurous young woman.

Goodnight from Cape Breton! I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you tomorrow.