Gampo Abbey: A Tranquil Retreat Amidst Nature's Beauty
Discover Gampo Abbey, a serene Buddhist temple in Nova Scotia, offering spiritual enrichment and stunning natural beauty near the Cape Breton Highlands.
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Nova Scotia, Gampo Abbey offers a unique blend of tranquility and spiritual exploration. This Buddhist temple is not only a place of worship but also a haven for those seeking peace and reflection. Visitors can immerse themselves in the calming atmosphere while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding nature, making it a perfect stop for tourists looking for both spiritual enrichment and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Gampo Abbey
- 1533 Pleasant Bay Loop, Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia, B0E 2P0, CA
- +1902-224-2752
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during a meditation session to fully experience the peaceful ambiance.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a place of worship.
- Explore the hiking trails around the abbey for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
- Check the abbey's schedule for special events or teachings that may coincide with your visit.
- Take some time to sit quietly and absorb the serene atmosphere; it's a perfect spot for reflection.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, start by navigating to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 104) from your current location in the Maritimes. If you're coming from Halifax, take Highway 102 north to Highway 104, then continue west. Follow signs for Cape Breton and take the exit toward Highway 105. Continue on Highway 105 until you reach Exit 11 for Highway 125 towards Sydney. Follow Highway 125 until you reach Highway 4, then continue onto Highway 19. Follow the signs to Pleasant Bay. Once in Pleasant Bay, turn onto Pleasant Bay Loop Road, and Gampo Abbey will be located at 1533 Pleasant Bay Loop. You may want to check your GPS for any traffic updates as you navigate.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus service from major cities like Halifax to Sydney. Maritime Bus operates routes that can get you to Sydney. From Sydney, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Gampo Abbey, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. Be sure to confirm the availability of taxis or rideshare services in advance, as they may not always be readily available in rural areas.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
If you arrive in Sydney via bus or other means, you can book a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber to get to Gampo Abbey. The trip will take approximately 1.5 hours and will cost around $150-$200 CAD depending on traffic and the service used. Ensure you confirm the fare before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.
Discover more about Gampo Abbey
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
10.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at North Mountain Look-off in Cape Breton National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and explorers.
Corney Brook Trail
20.5 km
Explore the scenic Corney Brook Trail in Nova Scotia for an unforgettable hiking experience amidst breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waterfalls.
White Point Trailhead
30.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of White Point Trailhead in Nova Scotia, where stunning landscapes and scenic trails await every adventurer.
Kidston Island
85.9 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
91.8 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
95.2 km
Explore the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay, NS, and journey through the history of wireless communication and its transformative impact.
Cape Breton Miners Museum
97.3 km
Discover the heart of Nova Scotia's coal mining history at Cape Breton Miners Museum, where stories of resilience and heritage come alive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whale Interpretive Centre
5.6 km
Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre in Pleasant Bay for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales and marine conservation.
MacIntosh Brook Trailhead
6.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of MacIntosh Brook Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Cape Breton National Park, Nova Scotia.
The Lone Shieling
6.5 km
Discover the tranquility and historical charm of The Lone Shieling, a unique landmark nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Nova Scotia.
Pollett's Cove Beach
7.1 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
7.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pollett's Cove, a serene bay in Canada perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
MacKenzie Mountain Look-off - Whales
8.1 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
8.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the MacKenzie Mountain Look-Off in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Beulach Ban Falls
11.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Beulach Ban Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in the serene landscapes of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Fishing Cove trailhead
12.5 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.
Bog Trailhead
15.1 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.
Cabot Trail
16.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant culture along the stunning Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, a top travel destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
16.3 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await in Nova Scotia's pristine wilderness.
Skyline Trailhead
16.9 km
Discover breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems at Skyline Trailhead, the ultimate hiking destination in Nova Scotia's Cape Breton National Park.
Skyline Trail
17.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Cape Breton Highlands
17.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Cape Breton Highlands, a scenic outdoor paradise perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Highland Breeze Bistro
6.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Mountain View Restaurant
6.2 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
7.0 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
Morrison's Restaurant
18.7 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
19.2 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
21.5 km
Experience authentic wood-fired pizza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Island at South Harbour Pines.
Danena's Bakery & Bistro
21.6 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
31.5 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
32.3 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Harbour Restaurant and Bar
32.8 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Harbour Restaurant and Bar along Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - where freshness meets flavor.
The Newland's Island cuisine
33.0 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Newland's Island, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
33.5 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Chowder House
33.7 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Neils Harbour at Chowder House—where every dish showcases the rich flavors of Nova Scotia's coast.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
33.8 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
Seagull Restaurant
35.4 km
Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking views at Seagull Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
6.5 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
19.3 km
Explore the essence of Nova Scotia at Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd, your go-to stop for local groceries and unique regional flavors.
Tartans and Treasures
21.4 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
21.7 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
32.2 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
32.5 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
32.6 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
37.3 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.
Sew Inclined
44.2 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
46.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Wildfire Pottery
53.3 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted ceramics at Wildfire Pottery, a unique store along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop
56.2 km
Explore the charm of Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop, where local artisans showcase their unique crafts and gifts along the stunning Cabot Trail.
The Other Cupboard Emporium
56.8 km
Explore The Other Cupboard Emporium in Indian Brook, NS: Your go-to spot for health foods, local treats, and unique souvenirs.
Two Macs Gallery
63.1 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
31.8 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
33.5 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
37.1 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
39.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
61.4 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
76.9 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
80.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
Route 19 Brewing
81.4 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
81.8 km
Discover Cabot Bar in Mabou, Nova Scotia – a picturesque spot for craft drinks and breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
The Cellar Bar
82.7 km
Discover The Cellar Bar in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where local brews and unique appetizers create a cozy dining experience.
The Narrows Cafe and Bar
85.8 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at The Narrows Cafe and Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine in Baddeck.
The French Club
91.1 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
91.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Capri Cabaret
91.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
91.5 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.
