Family Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands

St. Ann's Awakening

Today was a delightful blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, a true testament to the charm of Cape Breton. We ventured into the heart of Gaelic tradition and soaked in the stunning coastal views that this region is so famous for. It’s days like these that remind me why we set out on this family adventure, to discover hidden gems and create lasting memories together.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Main Street Restaurant. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. Alessia was particularly excited about her pancakes, and Pieter enjoyed a traditional breakfast, while I savored some local pastries. Fully energized, we set off to explore St. Ann's Provincial Park.


Discover tranquility on the Cabot Trail at St. Ann's Provincial Park: scenic picnic spots, coastal views, and a peaceful natural escape.
The park itself is quite small, more of a roadside stop than a sprawling wilderness, but it offered a peaceful break and a chance to stretch our legs. We strolled along the short 500-meter trail, which led to a lookout point with lovely views of the saltmarsh and St. Ann's Bay. It was a convenient spot to pause and appreciate the scenery, and Alessia enjoyed spotting different birds along the way. The crisp air and the quiet murmur of the water created a serene atmosphere, a perfect contrast to our usually bustling life back in Haarlem.

The beauty of a place is not just in its grand landscapes, but also in the small, quiet moments that connect us to its essence.

Next on our itinerary was lunch at Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages, and what a treat that was! The restaurant is known for highlighting local, organic, and ethically sourced food, and the menu changes daily. We opted for the tasting menu, a delightful journey through Cape Breton's culinary landscape. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing the freshest ingredients and innovative flavors. Pieter and I were particularly impressed by the seafood, so fresh it tasted like it had just been plucked from the ocean. Alessia, surprisingly, loved the vegetarian options, especially the locally sourced vegetables.


Experience fine dining and cozy accommodations at Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages on Cape Breton's iconic Cabot Trail.
The Chanterelle Inn itself is set on 100 acres of land with nature trails and overlooks the North River. The views from the restaurant were panoramic, with mountains visible from every table. It was easy to see why people come from all over the world to experience this place. The owners, Bettina and Holger, have created a truly special place, uniting amazing food, cozy accommodation, and experiences exploring Nova Scotia's hidden gems.

After such a satisfying lunch, we decided to explore the area a bit more. We ended up at the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts. Although we didn't take a formal class, we enjoyed wandering the grounds and learning about the Gaelic traditions that are so deeply rooted in this region. We popped into the craft shop, where Alessia was fascinated by the intricate Celtic designs on the various items. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of Cape Breton.

As evening approached, we made our way to Morrison's Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the menu offered a mix of classic and contemporary dishes. I chose a hearty seafood stew, Pieter went for a steak, and Alessia enjoyed some pasta. It was a comforting meal, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.


Discover delicious seafood and local cuisine at Morrison's Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape North, Nova Scotia.
To cap off the evening, Pieter and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at Governors Pub & Eatery while Alessia was sleeping soundly. This pub is known for its lively atmosphere and extensive selection of local and international beers. We enjoyed a couple of local drafts, soaking in the ambiance and chatting about our favorite moments from the day. It was a nice way to relax and reflect on our adventures.


Experience the charm of Governors Pub & Eatery, where European flavors meet Irish hospitality in the heart of Sydney, Nova Scotia.
Overall, today was a beautiful blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights. St. Ann's truly captured the essence of Cape Breton, offering a glimpse into its rich Gaelic heritage and stunning coastal scenery. It's experiences like these that make our family adventures so rewarding, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Bog Trailhead and Pathend Brook Lookout. I am excited to see more of the natural beauty that Cape Breton has to offer. I’ve heard the Bog Trail is particularly beautiful this time of year, with the fall foliage in full swing. I am also planning to stop by Cardinal Points Gift Shop to pick up some souvenirs for our friends back home. It's hard to believe we are already nearing the end of our trip. Time really does fly when you are having fun!

As I sit here writing this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Cape Breton has a way of capturing your heart, and I am so glad that we decided to embark on this adventure. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Until then, ciao from Cape Breton!