Cabot Trail
The Cabot Trail is world-renowned for its rugged shoreline and high drops. It is said to be similar to the Highlands of Scotland and one of the reasons Nova Scotia was named as such (New Scotland). A visit to the maritimes would not be complete without seeing these beautiful scenes.
When I was a kid my Dad and I drove around the Cabot Trail one summer. The only memory I have from that visit was looking down from the top of a very high cliff into clouds where the ocean waves should be.
This time was way different! It was a beautiful sunny day and all the views were ours to be had.
There are many restaurants and shops along the way but we chose to just stop at scenic locations instead of shopping. We captured many pictures but none do it justice. Some say the drive is scary as you are on the edge of a cliff at times, but the road is well made with good shoulders so we did not find it intimidating (however we did not bring the trailer along).
I’m not going to say much, I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.
We drove counter clockwise which is the recommended way to go. I’d love to return in the fall someday!
At the end of the day and trail we came upon the Glenora Distillery. They were North America’s first single malt distillery started by Scotch immigrants back in the 1800s. They use traditional Scotch making methods to create what is now known as Glen Breton Whiskey (can only be called Scotch when made in Scotland). Now on this historic location they have a pub, inn, store and restaurant, as well as provide tours of the distillery itself.
We were pleased to find this beautiful patio where we could enjoy a sampling with the dogs. The dogs were a big hit with the wonderful waitresses and staff making us all feel very welcomed.
Cape Breton is a very special place to visit with so much history and culture still alive today. Definitely a destination to put on your bucket list.
Have you been to Cape Breton? What was your favorite place or memory about it? Do you plan to go visit someday? Let us know in the comments down below.
I have been around the Cabot Trail 4 or 5 times in my lifetime. The last time was in October 2016. I had never been in the fall before and would strongly recommend doing it at least once when the leaves have turned. It is so spectacular that words and photos do not do it justice.
We stayed one night at Glenora Inn in Mabou, and a few nights at Heritage House in Baddeck. We were very well received at both locations. The hosts at Heritage House were out of this world – friendly, hospitable, great food, even shared some of their recipes.
If you are a fan of pizza, I would highly recommend Tom’s pizza in Baddeck!
We spent a rainy afternoon at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. I loved learning more about the father of our telephone. And since kiting is one of my hobbies I found the part of the museum focused on the kites built by Mr. Bell particularly interesting.
We took the time to do several hikes on the Cabot Trail as well as the Uisge Ban Falls just outside of Baddeck. The changing leaves and the weather not bring too hot allowed for spectacular views and pleasant hiking.