Family Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of the Present

As our Cape Breton adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. It's amazing how a place can imprint itself on your soul, leaving you with memories that you know will be cherished for years to come. Today was all about embracing the final moments, soaking in the last bits of Cape Breton's unique charm, and savoring the flavors that have defined our trip.

Our last full day in Cape Breton began with a delightful breakfast at the Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery in Northeast Margaree. The aroma of freshly baked goods and strong coffee was the perfect way to start the day. Alessia, of course, opted for a chocolate croissant, while Pieter and I enjoyed some hearty oatcakes with local jam. It’s these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning the day ahead, that I treasure most when we travel as a family. The cozy atmosphere of the café, filled with locals and tourists alike, made us feel like we were truly a part of the community, even if just for a short time. As we ate, we discussed our plans for the day, a mix of historical exploration and local flavor.


Discover culinary bliss at Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery in Margaree Valley—where fresh ingredients meet delightful pastries in a cozy setting.
Our main destination for the day was the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay. It was about a two-hour drive from Northeast Margaree, giving us ample time to enjoy the scenic coastal route one last time. The drive itself was a bittersweet experience. The vibrant fall foliage, which had been a constant companion throughout our trip, seemed even more brilliant today, as if putting on a final show just for us. We passed through small fishing villages, each with its own unique character and charm, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness knowing that this part of our journey was coming to an end.

Arriving at the Marconi National Historic Site, I was immediately struck by the stark contrast between the natural beauty of the surroundings and the remnants of human innovation. The site is perched on a plateau overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves providing a stunning backdrop. It was here, in 1902, that Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic telegraph message, a feat that revolutionized global communication.


Discover the birthplace of transatlantic wireless communication at the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.
Walking around the site, we explored the foundations of the original aerial towers and the remains of the receiving room and powerhouse. It was fascinating to imagine the scale of the operation and the ingenuity required to make it all work. Alessia, with her boundless curiosity, was particularly intrigued by the idea of sending messages across the ocean without wires. We spent some time in the visitor center, learning more about Marconi's life and work, and even tried our hand at tapping out Morse code messages. It was a fun and educational experience for all of us, and it really brought the history to life.

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time to experience a bit of local flavor. For lunch, we headed to the Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub in Sydney. This cozy spot is known for its hearty, home-style cooking and friendly atmosphere. Pieter was particularly excited, as he had heard great things about their seafood chowder. As we settled into a comfortable booth, I couldn't help but notice the eclectic decor, a mix of vintage farm tools and quirky artwork. It felt like stepping back in time, to a simpler, more authentic way of life.


Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Pieter, true to his word, ordered the seafood chowder and declared it to be the best he had ever tasted. Alessia opted for a grilled cheese sandwich, a classic that never fails to please, while I decided to try the local specialty, fish cakes with homemade tartar sauce. The food was delicious and comforting, and the portions were generous. We lingered over our meal, savoring each bite and enjoying the lively conversation around us. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to make a stop at the Island Folk Cider House in Sydney. I had read about this place online and was intrigued by their unique approach to cider-making. They use 100% Nova Scotia apples and locally sourced ingredients to create a variety of ciders that are both refreshing and flavorful. The cider house itself is located in a charming building with a rustic, laid-back vibe. As we walked in, we were greeted by the friendly staff and the inviting aroma of apples and spices.


Experience the refreshing taste of handcrafted ciders at Island Folk Cider House, Sydney's premier cider bar and snack destination.
We opted for a cider flight, which allowed us to sample a selection of their different ciders. From the crisp and dry Good Company to the fruity and tart Rebel Rosé, each cider was a unique and delightful experience. Alessia, of course, couldn't partake in the cider tasting, but she was more than happy with her glass of local apple juice. Pieter and I enjoyed the ciders, discussing the subtle nuances of each one and marveling at the creativity of the cider-makers. It was a fun and relaxing way to spend the afternoon, and it gave us a taste of Cape Breton's vibrant craft beverage scene.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages in Baddeck for our final dinner in Cape Breton. This highly-regarded restaurant promised a memorable culinary experience, and it certainly delivered. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful building with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The ambiance was elegant and refined, yet still warm and welcoming. We were seated at a table by the window, overlooking the Bras d'Or Lake, and the view was simply breathtaking.


Experience fine dining and cozy accommodations at Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages on Cape Breton's iconic Cabot Trail.
The menu at Chanterelle featured a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Pieter started with the smoked salmon appetizer, while I opted for the roasted beet salad. For our main courses, Pieter chose the pan-seared scallops, and I decided to try the lobster risotto. Each dish was a work of art, both in terms of presentation and flavor. The ingredients were fresh and high-quality, and the cooking was expertly executed. It was a truly special meal, and the perfect way to celebrate the end of our Cape Breton adventure.

As we savored our desserts – a decadent chocolate mousse for Pieter and a delicate apple tart for me – we reflected on our time in Cape Breton. We had hiked through stunning landscapes, explored charming towns, and immersed ourselves in the local culture. We had tasted delicious food, sampled unique beverages, and met friendly and welcoming people. But most importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Cape Breton, with its rugged beauty and rich history, had captured our hearts. It was a place that felt both familiar and exotic, a place where we could connect with nature, with history, and with each other. As we prepared to leave, I knew that we would carry a piece of Cape Breton with us, wherever we went. And I hoped that one day, we would have the opportunity to return and experience its magic once again.

Tomorrow, we start our journey back to Halifax for our flight back to Amsterdam. It’s always a mixed feeling, the end of a trip. Sadness to leave a place we’ve grown to love, but excitement to return home with new stories to tell. I’m already looking forward to sharing more about our Cape Breton adventure, and I hope it inspires you to plan your own family escape to this incredible corner of the world. Ciao for now, from Cape Breton!