The Lone Shieling: A Scottish Highland Outpost in Nova Scotia
Discover a piece of Scotland in Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Highlands National Park at the historic Lone Shieling site and trail.
The Lone Shieling is a replica of a Scottish crofter's hut, nestled in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Built in 1942, it commemorates the area's Scottish heritage and offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers amidst an old-growth Acadian forest.
A brief summary to The Lone Shieling
- 24543 Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia, B0E 2P0, CA
- +1902-224-2306
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for stunning autumn foliage in the surrounding old-growth forest.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the easy, 0.6 km loop trail.
- Check local weather conditions before visiting, as the area can be windy.
- Combine your visit with other Cabot Trail attractions like whale watching in Pleasant Bay or hiking the Skyline Trail.
Getting There
-
Driving
The Lone Shieling is located on the Cabot Trail (24543 Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, NS B0E 2P0). From the park's main entrance, follow the Cabot Trail (NS-30) north towards Pleasant Bay. The site is approximately a 30-minute drive from the park entrance. Parking is available at the site. Be aware that popular trails such as Skyline and Franey often experience parking shortages, especially during peak summer and fall months. Consider visiting early or having a backup plan.
-
Public Transport
To reach The Lone Shieling via public transport, take a bus from either Sydney or Baddeck to Pleasant Bay. Bus service schedules may be limited, so check ahead. From the nearest bus stop in Pleasant Bay, it is approximately a 2-kilometer walk or a short taxi ride to The Lone Shieling. A taxi from Pleasant Bay to Ingonish (close to The Lone Shieling) typically costs between $120-$150. Walking from the bus stop to the site takes about 25 minutes.
-
Walking
If you are staying in Pleasant Bay, The Lone Shieling is accessible by foot. It is a walk of approximately 2 kilometers from the center of Pleasant Bay along the Cabot Trail. Be cautious of traffic along the Cabot Trail.
Discover more about The Lone Shieling
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
6.9 km
Breathtaking views of the Aspy Fault from North Mountain, a must-see stop along Cape Breton's Cabot Trail. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Corney Brook Trail
17.3 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
White Point Trailhead
29.9 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
Kidston Island
79.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt
85.5 km
Explore Cape Breton like never before with the Tourist Scavenger Hunt – an interactive journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
Marconi National Historic Site
89.5 km
Discover the birthplace of transatlantic wireless communication at the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Miners Museum
91.5 km
Descend into history at the Cape Breton Miners Museum, where the stories of coal miners come to life.
Goat Island
95.9 km
Discover Mi'kmaq culture and natural beauty on Goat Island, a serene escape in Nova Scotia's Bras d'Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Mother Of Sorrows Pioneer Shrine & Gift Shop
96.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of the Mother Of Sorrows Pioneer Shrine in Nova Scotia, a must-visit cultural and spiritual destination.
Unmissable attractions to see
MacIntosh Brook Trailhead
2.6 km
Discover the natural beauty of MacIntosh Brook Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Cape Breton National Park, Nova Scotia.
Whale Interpretive Centre
5.3 km
Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre in Pleasant Bay for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales and marine conservation.
Gampo Abbey
6.5 km
Discover Gampo Abbey, a serene Buddhist temple in Nova Scotia, offering spiritual enrichment and stunning natural beauty near the Cape Breton Highlands.
MacKenzie Mountain Look-off - Whales
7.6 km
Discover breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and lush landscapes at the MacKenzie Mountain Look-off in Nova Scotia, a must-visit for nature lovers.
MacKenzie Mountain look-off - The Highland Plateau
8.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the MacKenzie Mountain Look-Off in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Beulach Ban Falls
8.2 km
Explore the natural beauty of Beulach Ban Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in the serene landscapes of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Fishing Cove trailhead
9.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Fishing Cove Trailhead, a premier hiking destination along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail, perfect for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
10.2 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await in Nova Scotia's pristine wilderness.
Bog Trailhead
10.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Bog Trailhead along the Cabot Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Nova Scotia, where nature and tranquility await.
Pollett's Cove Beach
12.1 km
Explore the stunning Pollett's Cove Beach in Nova Scotia, a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Cape Breton Highlands
12.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Cape Breton Highlands, a scenic outdoor paradise perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Pollett's Cove
12.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pollett's Cove, a serene bay in Canada perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Skyline Trailhead
13.4 km
Discover breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems at Skyline Trailhead, the ultimate hiking destination in Nova Scotia's Cape Breton National Park.
Skyline Trail
13.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
French Mountain
14.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of French Mountain in Nova Scotia, where panoramic views and adventure await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Essential places to dine
The Mountain View Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Highland Breeze Bistro
5.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
6.8 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
Morrison's Restaurant
19.1 km
Discover delicious seafood and local cuisine at Morrison's Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape North, Nova Scotia.
Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza
19.5 km
Discover Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza in Cape North - where delicious comfort food meets breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
South Harbour Pines woodfired pizza
21.1 km
Experience authentic wood-fired pizza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Island at South Harbour Pines.
Danena's Bakery & Bistro
21.1 km
Experience the best of Cape Breton at Danena's Bakery & Bistro—where every bite tells a story amidst stunning coastal views.
L'abri café, restaurant et bar
27.8 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
28.5 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
28.7 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Harbour Restaurant and Bar
29.0 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Harbour Restaurant and Bar along Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - where freshness meets flavor.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
29.2 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
The Newland's Island cuisine
29.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Newland's Island, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Seagull Restaurant
31.0 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Seagull Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail.
Main Street Restaurant
31.4 km
Experience local flavors at Main Street Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Ingonish Beach – where great food meets stunning views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
6.2 km
Explore the heart of Nova Scotia through unique local crafts and souvenirs at Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a gem along the Cabot Trail.
T & R Crafts & Gifts
15.8 km
Uncover the beauty of local craftsmanship at T & R Crafts & Gifts in Cape North, Nova Scotia, where every item tells a story.
Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd
19.6 km
Explore the essence of Nova Scotia at Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd, your go-to stop for local groceries and unique regional flavors.
Tartans and Treasures
21.1 km
Explore Tartans and Treasures in Dingwall, Nova Scotia - a unique store offering authentic Scottish goods and local crafts along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Courtney's Country Crafts
21.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Courtney's Country Crafts, a charming craft store on the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
The Bargain! Shop
28.5 km
Explore The Bargain! Shop in Petit Étang for unique local products, great deals, and a welcoming shopping experience in Nova Scotia.
Lola's Hooked Rugs
28.8 km
Explore the beautiful craftsmanship of hand-hooked rugs and unique local gifts at Lola's Hooked Rugs in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia.
Marguerite boutique et provisions
28.8 km
Explore Marguerite Boutique et Provisions for a unique blend of local groceries, vintage finds, and a cozy café experience in Chéticamp.
Flora's Cabot Trail
33.1 km
Experience the best of Nova Scotia at Flora's Cabot Trail, where delicious ice cream meets unique local shopping in a stunning coastal setting.
Sew Inclined
38.2 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
40.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Wildfire Pottery
46.9 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted ceramics at Wildfire Pottery, a unique store along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
The Other Cupboard Emporium
50.3 km
Explore The Other Cupboard Emporium in Indian Brook, NS: Your go-to spot for health foods, local treats, and unique souvenirs.
Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop
51.4 km
Explore the charm of Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop, where local artisans showcase their unique crafts and gifts along the stunning Cabot Trail.
Two Macs Gallery
57.6 km
Explore Two Macs Gallery: A treasure trove of Cape Breton crafts and art in North East Margaree, perfect for unique gifts and local souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Doryman Pub and Grill
28.0 km
Experience the warmth and local flavors at The Doryman Pub and Grill, a must-visit destination on the Cabot Trail in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia.
Thirsty Hiker Pub
28.7 km
Discover the warmth of Cape Breton at Thirsty Hiker Pub, where local brews and hearty meals await after your adventure on the Cabot Trail.
Purple Thistle
32.2 km
Experience the essence of Nova Scotia at Purple Thistle, where local flavors and breathtaking views create an unforgettable dining experience.
Castle Rock Country Inn
33.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
55.7 km
Discover the heart of Nova Scotia's music scene at Normaway Inn Music Barn, a cozy venue in Margaree Valley with unforgettable live performances.
Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge
70.6 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
74.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Cellar Bar
76.4 km
Discover The Cellar Bar in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where local brews and unique appetizers create a cozy dining experience.
Route 19 Brewing
76.8 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Route 19 Brewing in Inverness, Nova Scotia, where local flavors meet a unique dining atmosphere.
Cabot bar
77.2 km
Discover Cabot Bar in Mabou, Nova Scotia – a picturesque spot for craft drinks and breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
The Narrows Cafe and Bar
79.4 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at The Narrows Cafe and Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine in Baddeck.
The French Club
84.9 km
Discover The French Club, a cozy bar in Sydney, where exquisite drinks meet a warm ambiance for the perfect evening.
Island Folk Cider House
84.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Capri Cabaret
85.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
85.2 km
Experience the heart of Sydney at The Crown Cafe & Bar, where great food, drinks, and local culture come together in a vibrant pub setting.
