Discover the Enchantment of Ingonish Island
Explore Ingonish Island in Nova Scotia, where stunning landscapes meet outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences await every traveler.
Ingonish Island, nestled in the stunning Nova Scotia region, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. This picturesque destination is perfect for tourists seeking a tranquil escape amidst nature's beauty, with pristine beaches and lush hiking trails waiting to be explored.
A brief summary to Ingonish Island
- Nova Scotia, CA
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Bring your camera; the sunsets here are truly spectacular.
- Consider exploring local trails early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Don't miss trying fresh seafood at local restaurants for an authentic taste of the region.
- Check the local tide schedule if you plan to explore the beaches and coastal areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from Sydney, Nova Scotia. Head north on NS-125 S and take the exit for NS-105 N toward Port Hawkesbury. Continue on NS-105 N for approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles). Take exit 12 toward Ingonish, which will lead you onto NS-4 N. Follow NS-4 N until you reach the intersection with NS-305 N. Turn left onto NS-305 N, which will take you directly to Ingonish. Continue straight until you reach the Ingonish area, and look for signs to Ingonish Island. The total drive is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ingonish Island using public transportation, you can take a bus from Sydney to Baddeck. The bus service is provided by Maritime Bus. Once you arrive in Baddeck, you will need to transfer to another bus heading to Ingonish. Check the Maritime Bus schedule for specific departure times. The entire trip may take around 3 to 4 hours, including transfer time. Note that you may have to arrange for transportation from the bus stop to the specific areas on Ingonish Island, as public transit options may be limited.
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Ferry
If you are looking for a scenic route, consider taking a ferry. From North Sydney, take the ferry to Newfoundland, which is a separate trip but allows you to enjoy beautiful views of the coastline. After arriving in Newfoundland, you would need to drive back to Cape Breton, or plan accordingly. Please note that ferry tickets can range from CAD 50 to CAD 80 depending on the vehicle size and number of passengers, and it is advisable to book in advance.
Discover more about Ingonish Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
White Point Trailhead
21.5 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
27.1 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.
Skyline Trail
41.7 km
Hike Cape Breton's iconic Skyline Trail for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable Highlands scenery. A must-see on the Cabot Trail.
Skyline Trail Cape Breton Highland National Park
43.8 km
Hike the iconic Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable vistas.
Corney Brook Trail
44.7 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Kidston Island
72.5 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
Middle Head Hiking Trail
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Middle Head Hiking Trail in Nova Scotia, a perfect blend of stunning coastal views and tranquil forest paths.
Lakies Head
5.7 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.
Pathend Brook Lookout
11.5 km
Experience unparalleled natural beauty at Pathend Brook Lookout, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Neils Harbour lighthouse
13.8 km
Uncover the maritime history and breathtaking views at Neils Harbour Lighthouse, a hidden gem along the iconic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Highlands
20.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cape Breton Highlands, a paradise of rugged cliffs, lush landscapes, and rich wildlife in Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
24.4 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await in Nova Scotia's pristine wilderness.
Cabot Trail
25.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Cabot Trail, a scenic route through Nova Scotia's stunning landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant culture.
Cabots Landing Provincial Park
30.4 km
Explore the captivating Cabot's Landing Provincial Park, where natural beauty meets rich history in Nova Scotia's stunning coastline.
The Lone Shieling
33.0 km
Explore The Lone Shieling, a historical landmark in Nova Scotia, where nature meets rich Scottish heritage along the picturesque Cabot Trail.
Captain Cox's Whale Watch
36.5 km
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Nova Scotia with Captain Cox's Whale Watch – where majestic marine encounters await.
Gampo Abbey
37.4 km
Discover Gampo Abbey, a serene Buddhist temple in Nova Scotia, offering spiritual enrichment and stunning natural beauty near the Cape Breton Highlands.
Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort | Cabot trail, Cape Breton
37.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort, your ideal escape along the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
Bog Trailhead
37.6 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.
Whale Interpretive Centre
38.4 km
Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre in Pleasant Bay for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales and marine conservation.
Point Aconi Lighthouse
38.8 km
Explore the historical Point Aconi Lighthouse, a captivating landmark in Nova Scotia offering breathtaking coastal views and rich maritime history.
Essential places to dine
Seagull Restaurant
2.0 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Seagull Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
4.0 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
The Arduaine Restuarant and Lodge
4.3 km
Discover exquisite Western cuisine at The Arduaine Restaurant and Lodge in scenic Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia – where culinary delight meets stunning views.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
5.0 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Main Street Restaurant
6.8 km
Experience local flavors at Main Street Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Ingonish Beach – where great food meets stunning views.
Chowder House
13.8 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Neils Harbour at Chowder House—where every dish showcases the rich flavors of Nova Scotia's coast.
Danena's Bakery & Bistro
22.7 km
Experience the best of Cape Breton at Danena's Bakery & Bistro—where every bite tells a story amidst stunning coastal views.
South Harbour Pines woodfired pizza
22.7 km
Experience authentic wood-fired pizza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Island at South Harbour Pines.
Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza
25.4 km
Discover Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza in Cape North - where delicious comfort food meets breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
Morrison's Restaurant
25.6 km
Discover delicious seafood and local cuisine at Morrison's Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape North, Nova Scotia.
Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery ( Seasonal may- October)
32.6 km
Discover Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery on Cabot Trail: A charming spot for fresh pastries and hearty meals amidst Cape Breton's stunning landscapes.
Cabot Shores Bistro
37.5 km
Discover fresh local flavors at Cabot Shores Bistro in Nova Scotia's breathtaking landscape.
The Mountain View Restaurant
37.8 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Highland Breeze Bistro
38.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
39.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sew Inclined
16.4 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
19.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Courtney's Country Crafts
22.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Courtney's Country Crafts, a charming craft store on the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Tartans and Treasures
23.0 km
Explore Tartans and Treasures in Dingwall, Nova Scotia - a unique store offering authentic Scottish goods and local crafts along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd
25.3 km
Explore the essence of Nova Scotia at Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd, your go-to stop for local groceries and unique regional flavors.
T & R Crafts & Gifts
25.7 km
Uncover the beauty of local craftsmanship at T & R Crafts & Gifts in Cape North, Nova Scotia, where every item tells a story.
Wildfire Pottery
29.9 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
36.0 km
Explore The Other Cupboard Emporium in Indian Brook, NS: Your go-to spot for health foods, local treats, and unique souvenirs.
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
39.1 km
Explore the heart of Nova Scotia through unique local crafts and souvenirs at Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a gem along the Cabot Trail.
The Bargain! Shop
51.1 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
51.3 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
51.3 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
53.0 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.
La Quaintrelle
53.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at La Quaintrelle, the charming boutique in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, offering local style and personalized service.
The Cape Breton Beard Factory
61.2 km
Explore the Cape Breton Beard Factory for premium grooming products and a touch of local artistry in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Purple Thistle
4.0 km
Experience the essence of Nova Scotia at Purple Thistle, where local flavors and breathtaking views create an unforgettable dining experience.
Thirsty Hiker Pub
5.0 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.
Castle Rock Country Inn
6.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge
48.0 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
49.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Doryman Pub and Grill
50.9 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.
The Cellar Bar
53.2 km
Discover The Cellar Bar in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where local brews and unique appetizers create a cozy dining experience.
The French Club
61.1 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
61.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
61.3 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.
Bitten Moon Pub
61.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Glace Bay at Bitten Moon Pub, renowned for its delicious poutine, wings, and local craft brews.
Capri Cabaret
61.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
61.6 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
61.9 km
Experience the spirit of Ireland at The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse in Sydney, NS, where great food, drinks, and live music await.
Red Farm (Cape Breton, Canada)
66.7 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at Red Farm, a charming restaurant in Cape Breton committed to fresh, local ingredients and warm hospitality.
