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Nova Scotia's stunning (and weirdly Scottish) Cabot Trail

The most impressive scenic drive in a country known for scenic drives

  • 11
  • 04:43
  • 184 mi
  • $35
Take This Trip

Created by Jonathan Richman - March 15th 2018

Canada, with its sweeping mountain ranges, dense forests, and ample coastline, has no shortage of scenic drives. But, the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island kind of blows all of those other routes out of the water.

Photo of Cabot Trail
4.3

NS, CA

Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail was originally constructed in 1932, back when roads weren't just meant to be the most direct route from Point A to Point B.

715 North Branch Rd, NS, CA

Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park

Start the journey near Baddeck. You can get a good taste for just how rugged and beautiful the island is with a hike at Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park.

1
9mi 00h 23m
Photo of The Alexander Graham Bell Museum
4.5

559 Chebucto St, NS, CA

The Alexander Graham Bell Museum

1

The Alexander Graham Bell Museum is dedicated to the many works and interests of this fascinating historical figure.

2
27mi 00h 35m
Photo of Margaree Salmon Museum
4.5

60 E Big Intervale Rd, NS, CA

Margaree Salmon Museum

2

For a quirky, local museum experience, check out the Margaree Salmon Museum.

3
29mi 00h 42m

15584 Cabot Trail, NS, CA

Les Trois Pignons

3

Cape Breton is also known for as an artists haven, with galleries, shops, and inspiration all across the island.

4
24mi 00h 44m
Photo of Cape Breton Highlands National Park
4.8

37639 Cabot Trail, NS, CA

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

4

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is pretty much the climax of the Cabot Trail.

5
46mi 01h 11m
Photo of Keltic Lodge Resort & Spa
4.0

313 Keltic Inn Road, NS, CA

Keltic Lodge Resort & Spa

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$$

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great deal!

5

Treat yourself to a stay at the Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa right in the heart of the park.

6
8mi 00h 15m
Photo of Cape Smokey Provincial Park
4.5

40301 Cabot Trail, NS, CA

Cape Smokey Provincial Park

6

Keep cruising the trail out of the Cape Breton Highlands and it won't be long before you reach Cape Smokey Provincial Park.

7
9mi 00h 13m

42470 Cabot Trail, NS, CA

Wreck Cove General Store

7

They keep later hours and provide more services in the summer, which is the busy season, but they remain open all year round.

8
0mi 00h 01m

42691 Cabot Trail Road, NS, CA

Dancing Moose Cafe

8

The Dancing Moose Cafe is one of those quirky little local joints that really makes tourists on the Trail feel right at home.

29mi 00h 38m
Photo of Great Hall of the Clans
4.0

51779 Cabot Trail, NS, CA

Great Hall of the Clans

As you make your way back towards Baddeck, make one final stop in St. Ann's.

Get the full guide including more details, tips, and fascinating facts from our partner, the all new Chevy Equinox.

Read the rest here.

Jonathan Richman

I hate driving in traffic, but love driving the open road.