The Cabot Trail, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, is a breathtakingly beautiful scenic drive that attracts travelers from around the world. Spanning approximately 298 kilometers (185 miles), this iconic trail is famous for its stunning coastal views, vibrant fall foliage, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a three-day adventure along the Cabot Trail, here’s a detailed itinerary to make the most of your journey.
Morning: Start your trip in Baddeck, a charming village known for its connections to Alexander Graham Bell. Before hitting the road, take a bit of time to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Explore the exhibitions showcasing Bell’s life and inventions.
After your visit, grab breakfast at a local café, such as the Trafalgar’s Restaurant. Their hearty options will fuel you for the day ahead.
Afternoon: Hit the road on the Cabot Trail toward Ingonish. Scenic stops like the Cape Breton Highlands National Park are a must. Take a leisurely hike along the Acadian Trail to experience stunning views of the coastline and lush greenery.
Evening: Arrive in Ingonish and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Keltic Lodge’s dining room. Be sure to try the fresh lobster or scallops. After dinner, relax at your accommodation, perhaps at the Keltic Lodge, where you can enjoy views of the ocean.
Morning: After breakfast, explore more of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Consider the Skyline Trail, which offers a relatively easy 7-kilometer (4.3 miles) hike, culminating in a spectacular view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the surrounding coastal mountains.
Afternoon: Continue your journey to Chéticamp, a vibrant Acadian community. Along the way, stop at Margaree Harbour for lunch at a local eatery. Sample authentic Acadian dishes like poutine râpée.
Once in Chéticamp, visit the Les Trois Pignons, a cultural center showcasing Acadian art and heritage. Don’t forget to pick up some handcrafted items as souvenirs!
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant le Cadillac, known for its warm atmosphere and local delicacies. Afterward, take a stroll along the harbor or check if any local events or music performances are organized.
Morning: Start your final day with breakfast in Chéticamp. Afterward, make your way toward Cape North, stopping at Cape Breton Highlands National Park for some last-minute exploration. The coastal views along the way are unforgettable, so take your time.
Afternoon: Once you reach Cape North, check out the nearby Ingonish Beach or go for a whale-watching tour if the season permits. This is a great opportunity to witness the incredible marine life around Nova Scotia’s coast.
Evening: As your trip winds down, enjoy dinner at The Kitchen on the Trail, which serves locally sourced dishes that celebrate Cape Breton's culinary heritage. Consider staying at a local inn or B&B to soak up the last night