Cabot Trail: A Coastal Journey Through Cape Breton
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail: a scenic loop through highlands, coastlines, and vibrant cultural communities.
The Cabot Trail, a 298 km highway in Nova Scotia, loops around Cape Breton Island, offering stunning views of the coast, highlands, and Acadian and Gaelic cultures. It's a must-see for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Cabot Trail
- Cabot Trail, Victoria County, Nova Scotia, CA
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan for at least two days to fully experience the Cabot Trail, allowing time for hiking, cultural exploration, and enjoying the views.
- Drive counter-clockwise to keep closer to the ocean views and pull-offs, but be aware of the road conditions and potential construction.
- A park pass is required if you plan to stop and explore attractions within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
- Check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out, especially during winter, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Be aware that the Cabot Trail includes sharp turns and steep grades, so reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Getting There
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Driving
The Cabot Trail forms a loop, accessible from multiple points. A popular starting point is Baddeck, where you can join the trail via Highway 105. From there, follow the signs for the Cabot Trail. Note that a section of the Cabot Trail passes through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where a park pass may be required. There are visitor centers at both the west (Chéticamp) and east (Ingonish) entrances to the park. Be prepared for potential construction delays and check road conditions before you go. Parking is available at various look-offs and trailheads along the route.
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Public Transport
While public transport directly along the entire Cabot Trail is limited, consider using a combination of options. From larger towns like Baddeck or Sydney, local bus services or shuttles might offer partial routes or connections to communities along the trail. Check with local tourism centers for schedules and availability. Keep in mind that services may be infrequent, especially outside of peak season. Some tour operators offer guided bus tours of the Cabot Trail, providing a convenient way to experience the scenery without driving. Costs vary depending on the tour.
Discover more about Cabot Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
10.1 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.
White Point Trailhead
14.3 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
Corney Brook Trail
33.4 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt
85.3 km
Explore Cape Breton like never before with the Tourist Scavenger Hunt – an interactive journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
Kidston Island
87.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mountain Pine Adventures
5.4 km
Experience the thrill of adventure sports amidst the stunning landscapes of Nova Scotia at Mountain Pine Adventures.
Beulach Ban Falls
8.9 km
Explore the natural beauty of Beulach Ban Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in the serene landscapes of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Cabots Landing Provincial Park
10.1 km
Explore the captivating Cabot's Landing Provincial Park, where natural beauty meets rich history in Nova Scotia's stunning coastline.
Pollett's Cove Beach
12.5 km
Explore the stunning Pollett's Cove Beach in Nova Scotia, a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Pollett's Cove
12.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pollett's Cove, a serene bay in Canada perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Cape Breton Highlands
14.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Cape Breton Highlands, a scenic outdoor paradise perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Captain Cox's Whale Watch
15.7 km
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Nova Scotia with Captain Cox's Whale Watch – where majestic marine encounters await.
The Lone Shieling
16.1 km
Discover the tranquility and historical charm of The Lone Shieling, a unique landmark nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Nova Scotia.
Gampo Abbey
16.2 km
Discover Gampo Abbey, a serene Buddhist temple in Nova Scotia, offering spiritual enrichment and stunning natural beauty near the Cape Breton Highlands.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
16.8 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await in Nova Scotia's pristine wilderness.
Neils Harbour lighthouse
18.1 km
Uncover the maritime history and breathtaking views at Neils Harbour Lighthouse, a hidden gem along the iconic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
MacIntosh Brook Trailhead
18.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of MacIntosh Brook Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Cape Breton National Park, Nova Scotia.
Whale Interpretive Centre
20.2 km
Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre in Pleasant Bay for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales and marine conservation.
Lakies Head
21.7 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty of Lakies Head, a scenic gem along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
MacKenzie Mountain Look-off - Whales
22.9 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.
Essential places to dine
Morrison's Restaurant
3.0 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
3.4 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
5.4 km
Experience authentic wood-fired pizza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Island at South Harbour Pines.
Danena's Bakery & Bistro
5.4 km
Experience the best of Cape Breton at Danena's Bakery & Bistro—where every bite tells a story amidst stunning coastal views.
Chowder House
18.2 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Neils Harbour at Chowder House—where every dish showcases the rich flavors of Nova Scotia's coast.
The Mountain View Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Highland Breeze Bistro
20.4 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
21.9 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
22.8 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
23.2 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Seagull Restaurant
23.8 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Seagull Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail.
The Arduaine Restuarant and Lodge
26.6 km
Discover exquisite Western cuisine at The Arduaine Restaurant and Lodge in scenic Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia – where culinary delight meets stunning views.
Main Street Restaurant
27.4 km
Experience local flavors at Main Street Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Ingonish Beach – where great food meets stunning views.
L'abri café, restaurant et bar
43.4 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
44.1 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
T & R Crafts & Gifts
0.4 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
3.5 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
5.3 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
5.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Courtney's Country Crafts, a charming craft store on the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
21.2 km
Explore the heart of Nova Scotia through unique local crafts and souvenirs at Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a gem along the Cabot Trail.
Sew Inclined
37.3 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.
The Bargain! Shop
44.0 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
44.3 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
44.4 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
48.3 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.
Wildfire Pottery
49.1 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
54.0 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
65.5 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
69.9 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
Thirsty Hiker Pub
23.1 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
26.8 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
29.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
The Doryman Pub and Grill
43.6 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.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
67.6 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
71.0 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
73.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Cellar Bar
76.6 km
Discover The Cellar Bar in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where local brews and unique appetizers create a cozy dining experience.
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
85.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
85.4 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.
The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse
85.7 km
Experience the spirit of Ireland at The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse in Sydney, NS, where great food, drinks, and live music await.
Bitten Moon Pub
86.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Glace Bay at Bitten Moon Pub, renowned for its delicious poutine, wings, and local craft brews.
The Narrows Cafe and Bar
87.5 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at The Narrows Cafe and Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine in Baddeck.
