Explore With Lora

A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: May 8, 2022  - Last updated: February 6, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

If you’re looking for the most beautiful landscapes in Nova Scotia, you need to add the Cabot Trail to your itinerary.

Winding roads through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, charming fishing communities, fantastic restaurants, and endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and waterfall chasing are just some of the reasons you’ll love Cape Breton.

A Cabot Trail road trip has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Yet even though I grew up next door in Newfoundland, it only happened in 2020. But that’s what the year ended up being about – discovering what’s in our own backyard.

This guide will help you plan the best Cabot Trail Itinerary.

cabot trail itinerary pinterest pin

This trip was in partnership with the Nova Scotia Tourism board as part of the creator coast campaign. I am so grateful to them for supporting local creators during this time and giving me the opportunity to explore this incredible part of Canada.

Where to Start Your Cabot Trail Itinerary

car looking over the cabot trail

Depending on what direction you are coming from, there are a few options for where to start your Cape Breton road trip.

If you’re doing an East Coast Canada road trip and coming from New Brunswick, PEI, or Halifax , you’ll take the Canso Causeway onto Cape Breton Island and start in the South. From there, a great first stop is the town of Inverness. It’s just an hour’s drive from the Causeway.

If you’re traveling from Newfoundland on the ferry via North Sydney, start your Cabot Trail road trip in Baddeck, as it’s just a 40-minute drive from the ferry.

If you’re flying into Nova Scotia, you’ll most likely land in Halifax. You can easily rent a car from the airport there – it’s about a two-hour drive to Cape Breton.

There’s also a small airport you can fly into in Sydney, but I recommend renting a car from Halifax so you can explore other areas of Nova Scotia!

It’s also worth spending a few nights exploring Halifax and staying in one of the charming accommodations.

@explorewithlora Is the Cabot Trail on your bucket list? #cabottrail #capebreton #novascotia #scenicdrive #explorecanada #fyp #canadianroadtrip ♬ The Banjo Beat, Pt. 1 – Ricky Desktop

Top Places to Visit in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Inverness cape breton.

inverness cape breton

Inverness is a beautiful small town, not to be confused with Inverness, Scotland. Although the two share strikingly similar landscapes along with unpredictable weather and a love for good whiskey.

If you’re interested in discovering the whiskeys of Cape Breton, make a stop at the Glenora Inn & Distillery. When you enter Cape Breton Island via the Causeway, take the Ceilidh Trail/Route 19.

It’s a gorgeous road, and you’ll pass right by the Glenora Inn, which is about 10-minutes before Inverness. There, you can tour the distillery, which is home to North America’s oldest single malt whiskey. They also have a delicious restaurant on-site!

Top things to do in Inverness

Golfing in Inverness

inverness cape breton

The Cabot Trail is home to one of the world’s best golf resorts, Cabot links, where I stayed in Inverness. Honestly, I’d never played golf before this trip – but when in Rome, right?

I booked a golf lesson with one of the instructors there, who patiently taught me as I swung (and missed) more times than I’d like to admit.

After the golf lesson, we drove along the many kilometers of courses at Cabot Links, which is quite impressive.

The golf courses go right along the coastline and in some of them, you are meant to hit the ball over the cliffs/ocean to the hole. My golf skills aren’t at that level yet, but I enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

Inverness Beach and Boardwalk

inverness beach cape breton

Inverness has one of the prettiest beaches I found while in Cape Breton. You can stroll along the charming boardwalk, which leads you down to the beach.

When I was visiting, there was no one on the beach because a thunderstorm was looming in the sky, but I’d imagine this place would be packed on a hot sunny day.

I didn’t even know we had beaches like this in Atlantic Canada; the golden sand is so soft to walk on.

I managed to walk a good while on the beach and made it back to my hotel room just in time before the thunderstorm started! I love watching them from the comfort of inside a warm room.

There’s also a beach hut on Inverness beach serving food which I really wanted to try, but sadly it was closed the day I was there.

One of the other content creators on this campaign has written a review of it along with everything else you need to know about eating in Cape Breton.

Egypt Falls Cape Breton

egypt falls cape breton

I spent a lot of my time in Cape Breton chasing waterfalls, but Egypt Falls was my favorite. It’s just a half-hour drive from Inverness and a 15-minute hike down from the road.

It’s a steep hike, but there is a rope there to help you get down. I saw families with small children, so it is accessible.

egypt falls inverness cape breton

There were a couple of groups of people when I first got to the waterfall, but after a while, I had the entire thing to myself and managed to get my drone up, where I discovered a whole other part of the falls. It’s gorgeous. Hiking back out is a lot harder, but the rope is very helpful!

Gypsum Mine Lake

gypsum mine lake cape breton

Gypsum Mine Lake is another popular hiking trail/swimming hole in the Inverness area. It’s just a 20-minute walk to the lake from the parking lot, which is a stunning turquoise color.

You can also climb to the top for a birds-eye view, but unfortunately, it started pouring on me, and I had to make a beeline for my car. You may be sensing a theme here!

Where to stay in Inverness

If you want to treat yourself, book a room at the Cabot Links golf resort . I was hosted here, and it’s one of the nicest hotels I’ve stayed in. If you’re into golf, even better.

This luxury resort has two acclaimed world top 100 courses. But even if you’re not into golf, this place is a treat to stay in. It’s got award-winning accommodations, private beaches, and three delicious on-site restaurants.

room at cabot links golf resort

For a more affordable option, check out Tullock Inn & Gifts.

Chéticamp

cheticamp harbour at sunset

Chéticamp is an excellent place to base yourself if you want to enjoy the many activities in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

It’s just a couple of kilometers away from the park entrance and has great places to stay , wonderful restaurants, and lots of fun things to do.

cheticamp at sunset

Things to do in Cheticamp

Cheticamp Whale Watching

boat in cape breton

You can go whale watching in Cheticamp, which I really wanted to do, knowing that Cape Breton has some of the best whale watching in the world. But as you may have picked up, the weather was not on my side during this trip.

After six days of whale watching tours being canceled due to high winds, one finally went out on my last day in Cheticamp.

However, we didn’t find any whales because the seas were so rough. I’ve been spoiled with whales and puffins in Newfoundland all summer, so I guess I can’t complain too much!

seals in cheticamp

On the bright side, we found some seals, which are so cute to see bopping their heads in the water. And at least I can say I’ve seen Cape Breton from land, sea, and sky now.

The coastline of Cape Breton is stunning to see from the water, so I think it’s worth going whale watching on the Cabot trail regardless.

boat tour in cape breton

Also, the whale watching tour operators here are so confident that they will offer you a refund if you don’t see any whales. So, what’s the harm in trying?

Helicopter Tour from Cheticamp with Celtic Air

helicopter ride with celtic air over cape breton highlands national park

One of my favorite activities from the trip was taking a helicopter tour with Celtic Air Services from Cheticamp. The sun finally came out for me that day, and the views were unreal.

aerial view of the cabot trail

What made the ride even more exhilarating was that we decided to take the side doors off the helicopter before flying! I’ve been in helicopters before, but this was an entirely new experience.

We flew right over the park and got incredible views of the Cabot Trail, Cheticamp, and the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton, including some secret waterfalls. We even flew over Gypsum mine lake!

aerial view of the cabot trail

It was such a fantastic experience to get a birds-eye view of one of the most beautiful places in Canada. I can’t recommend this experience enough, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Cape Breton.

Must eat: Visit L’abri Cafe Restaurant for brunch/lunch/dinner/all the meals. This place is so good I went here twice. 

Where to stay in Cheticamp

I was hosted at Auberge Bay Wind Suites, which are these quaint seaside self-contained apartments. The inside isn’t luxurious, but it has everything you need for a comfy stay, and the location is perfect.

It’s right in the center of town next to the ocean, which you can see from your bed. There’s also a cute lighthouse just outside of it and an excellent restaurant attached to the rooms.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

aerial view cape breton highlands national park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park has been on my Canada bucket list for so long, and it was well worth the wait.

This park is home to one of the most beautiful road trips in the world, but it’s also full of opportunities for outdoor adventure , including some of the top hikes in Cape Breton.

You need to have a valid Parks Canada pass when you’re inside the park. You can buy them at the entrance just a few km away from Cheticamp.

If you want to go camping on the Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the best place for it. You can stay at one of seven  Parks Canada campsite s – in Cheticamp, Corney Brook, Fishing Cove, Macintosh Brook, Big Intervale, Broad Cove, and Ingonish Beach.

Cabot Trail Hiking

There are 26 hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, so you could spend weeks just hiking here. If you’re interested in doing that, a great time to visit is during the Hike the Highlands Festival, which takes place every September when the fall colors are in bloom.

cabot trail hiking skyline trail

The most popular hike in the park is the Skyline Trail. Hiking the trail at sunset has become a signature experience in the park, so I went to see what all the fuss is about.

I was running late that day, so I actually got there just after the sun had gone down, but it was still stunning to witness.

The trail itself is easy. It’s a mostly flat, 8.7km gravel loop. There is a boardwalk and stairs at the main viewpoint, where you get incredible views of the Cabot Trail.

skyline trail sunset

If you’re looking for a short trail with fewer people, check out La Chemin du Buttereau. It’s a 4.6km path that takes you through a beautiful forest with glimpses of the Chéticamp River. The trailhead is near the turn-off for the Cheticamp campground.

forest hiking trail cape breton

Parks Canada even has a 10 hikes in one day challenge , which will earn you a souvenir magnet if you show proof at one of the visitor’s centers! There are so many gorgeous hiking trails in Cape Breton; I wish I could have done them all.

Viewpoints in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

You’ll want to stop for photos every two minutes while driving through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and luckily, they’ve done a fantastic job building lookout points for you to do just that.

One not to miss is the Cape Breton Highlands Lookout which is shortly after the entrance from Cheticamp.

cabot trail road trip

Another fun thing you can do in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is book a Perfect Picnic . You place an order the night before and then pick up the meal, which a local restaurant will prepare. Then you can bring your picnic to a scenic location in the park to enjoy!

Pleasant Bay

pleasant bay cape breton

The next town you’ll come across driving through on this Cabot Trail itinerary is Pleasant Bay. It’s a small quaint fishing village where you can take whale-watching tours.

I didn’t get to spend a lot of time here, but there are some lovely places to stay and restaurants. Rusty Anchor is a good one. If you want to stay further in the park then Cheticamp, Pleasant Bay is a good option.

Where to stay: A good option is  Mountain View Motel & Cottages , which offers self-contained cottages with kitchens.

Top of the Island – Cape North / Meat Cove

meat cove cape breton island

If you want to get off the beaten path from the traditional Cabot Trail itineraries, turn left at Cape North and head up the most Northerly point of Cape Breton.

There’s a town called Meat Cove at the very top, which is home to one of the coolest camping spots I’ve seen in Atlantic Canada. It’s right on the cliff – the name is Meat Cove Campground .

The views here are fantastic, but the road to Meat Cove is rough. It’s a dirt road, and it’s filled with potholes. I drove it in my tiny Chevrolet Cruze, but I was nervous!

Tenerife Mountain Cape Breton

tenerife mountain cape breton

There’s a hike on the way up to Meat Cove called the Tenerife mountain trail. It’s a short but extremely challenging hike that will give you 360-views of Cape Breton Island .

This hike is not for the faint of heart – it climbs almost 200m at the very end, and it’s a scramble up rocks to get to the top.

tenerife mountain hike

I hiked this solo and had to give myself a lot of encouragement to make it, but I felt so rewarded when I got to the top. The views are unparalleled to anything else in Cape Breton. There’s even a guest book you can sign!

The entrance to the hike is a bit confusing, as there’s no sign. You turn off at Cape North onto Bay St. Lawrence Road and drive for about 4km.

You will see a small parking area to the right, and the entrance to the hike is across from that. It’s also on Google Maps, although that will take you slightly past the actual trailhead.

ingonish cape breton

On the other side of the Cabot Trail is the town of Ingonish. It’s a great place to stay if you want to feel like you’re inside the park while having the amenities of a town.

Things to do in Ingonish

Ingonish has beautiful beaches, whale watching tours, golf courses, and hiking trails. It’s home to the Franey Trail, which I’ve heard is stunning. Middle Head Hiking trail is another popular one nearby. It seems like I will have to make a trip back to Cape Breton – there just wasn’t enough time for all the hikes!

Ingonish Beach

Ingonish Beach

If you do anything in Ingonish, go to the beach. It’s absolutely stunning! If you want to see the sun over the beach, you’ll have to visit at sunrise, but even the light from the sunset on the other side was gorgeous.

The castle-like building you can see in the background of the above photo is the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands , which is a great option if you want to stay in Ingonish.

Mary Ann Falls

mary ann falls ingonish

Mary Ann Falls is another beautiful waterfall you can visit in Cape Breton near Ingonish. I stopped here on my way from Cheticamp to Ingonish while driving the Cabot Trail.

The turn-off is well marked with a sign, and then you just follow a dirt road to a parking lot. From there, it’s just a short walk to the falls. There are two viewpoints to admire the falls from!

lighthouse in baddeck

Baddeck is considered the beginning and end of the Cabot Trail, so it’s the perfect place to start/end your Cabot trail road trip no matter where you’re coming from.

It’s a charming town that was founded in the 1900s. Although it’s small, there are many places to stay and restaurants here.

Things to do in Baddeck

Water Sports on the B’ras D’or Lake

kayakinig in baddeck cape breton itinerary

Situated along the shores of the stunning Bras d’Or Lake, Baddeck is the perfect place for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

You can rent kayaks and SUP from the Inverary Resort adventure center and paddle to Kidston Island Lighthouse. Do this in the morning so you can see the reflection of the lighthouse in the water – it’s gorgeous!

Uisge Ban Falls

Uisge Ban Falls cape Breton

Another waterfall? Of course. I never stop chasing them! This waterfall is inside Uisge Ban Falls provincial park, which you can get to from Baddeck in about twenty minutes.

There’s a parking lot inside the park, and from there, it’s a half-hour easy walk to the waterfall. There’s a lower waterfall you can easily access, but you can also get to the top part by climbing up. It’s very steep but doable!

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Baddeck is the hometown of Alexander Graham Bell, a renowned inventor best known for inventing the telephone. Parks Canada established the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to commemorate his genius.

Inside the museum, you can learn about the fascinating life of this inventor and see original artifacts, films, and photographs that highlight his scientific and humanitarian work.

Must eat: Baddeck is home to many excellent restaurants, but one I loved was The Freight Shed. It’s right on the water, and they have delicious seafood options including the iconic Nova Scotia lobster roll.

Where to stay in Baddeck

I was hosted at Inverary resort , a lovely place set right on Bras d’Or Lake. If you want to feel like you’re at a cottage – this is the place!

The interior of the rooms could use some updating, but the facilities are gorgeous. There’s a private beach with chairs to relax on, which is the perfect place to soak in the sunset.

sunset inverary resort cape breton itinerary

My favorite part about Inverary resort is the onsite adventure center, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and boats – you can even rent a floating picnic table!

There’s also an on-site spa where you can treat yourself to a massage, pedicure, or manicure. It was raining one of the days I was in Baddeck, so this was the perfect thing to do. Inverary also has a restaurant on-site that serves delicious food and live music daily.

North River

north river cape breton

Another gorgeous spot to visit in Cape Breton is the North River, between Ingonish and Baddeck. There’s not a lot to do here, but the scenery is spectacular, and it’s the perfect place to go if you want to experience kayaking in Cape Breton.

Sydney is the capital city of Cape Breton. If you’re coming from Newfoundland on the ferry, you’ll be arriving in North Sydney which is right next to it.

Sydney has many accommodation options and restaurants, so this can be a good option to stay in if you need to catch the ferry the following day.

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

If you have some extra time on your Cape Breton island itinerary, another great place to visit is the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. It’s a 40-minute drive from Sydney.

There, you can step back in time to see French colonial life between 1713 and 1758. The original site was destroyed, but Parks Canada rebuilt it to 1/4 of its size.

It’s the largest reconstruction of its kind in North America, offering visitors a unique and fun way to learn about this period of history. There’s also a beautiful lighthouse you can visit in Louisberg!

How long to Spend on the Cabot Trail?

I spent a week in Cape Breton driving along the Cabot Trail and still didn’t have enough time to do everything I wanted! Even though the Cabot Trail is just under 300km, most people recommend spending 3-5 days as there is so much to do.

How many days in Cape Breton depends on how many activities you want to do. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, than you could easily spend a week.

While it is possible to drive in one day, this would feel very rushed. I’d recommend spending at least two nights, and more if possible!

Cabot Trail Itineraries

road on the cabot trail itinerary

Cape Breton/Cabot Trail One Week Itinerary

If you’ve got a week to explore, here’s a sample Halifax to Cape Breton road trip itinerary:

  • Day 1: Leave Halifax for Inverness, stay overnight in Inverness
  • Day 2: Explore Inverness in the morning, Depart for Cheticamp in the afternoon (1 hr drive), stay overnight
  • Day 3: Explore around Cheticamp, stay overnight
  • Day 4: Head into Explore Cape Breton Highlands national park, stay overnight in Ingonish
  • Day 5: Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, head to Baddeck in the evening
  • Day 6: Explore Baddeck, stay overnight
  • Day 7: Depart for home

Cabot Trail Itinerary 3 Days

If you’ve only got a few days to explore the park, I recommend spending one night in either Cheticamp or Plesant Bay and another in Ingonish or Baddeck. This will give you time to see both sides of the park.

You can drive from Cheticamp and Baddeck through the Cabot Trail in three hours, but it’s so beautiful that you’ll want to give yourself a full day because you’ll be stopping so much for photos!

Cabot Trail Tours

If you don’t have a car or just don’t want to drive the Cabot Trail alone, there are a few tours you can join.

This day tour from Sydney is a “mini” tour that shows some of the best highlights along the Cabot Trail, with many look-off stops for photographs and breathtaking viewpoints.

This full-day driving tour from Baddeck will take you with a small group to discover the highlights of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including photo opportunities at St. Ann’s Bay and Kelly’s Mountain.

Best Time to Drive the Cabot Trail

skyline hike cape breton itinerary

Cape Breton is a destination that can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit Cape Breton is during the summer when the days are long and the weather is warm, making activities such as swimming and kayaking accessible.

Although in the maritime, you are never guaranteed good weather. I visited the last week of August and got quite a bit of rain and wind!

Another great time to visit Cape Breton is when the leaves change color during the fall. It’s one of the most beautiful places to see the fall colors in Canada!

Don’t discount visiting Cape Breton during the wintertime. It’s a perfect place for winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

FAQ: Exploring Cabot Trail

Where is the cabot trail.

The Cabot Trail is on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. It starts in Baddeck.

How long is the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is just under 300km

How long does it take to drive the Cabot Trail?

While it is possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, I recommend spending at least three. There are many sights to see and things to do; you could easily spend one week here.

Why is the Cabot Trail famous?

The Cabot Trail is famous for its breathtaking scenery! The roads wind through Cape Breton Islands National Park along the Atlantic Coastline, offering stunning seaside views at every turn.

What is the most beautiful part of Cabot Trail?

The most beautiful part of the Cabot Trail is subjective, but many find the drive through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with its stunning coastal views and lush highlands, to be particularly breathtaking.

Is Cabot Trail worth the drive?

Absolutely! The Cabot Trail offers a unique blend of spectacular scenery, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Can you do the Cabot Trail in one day?

Yes, it is possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, but to fully enjoy the experience, including hikes, scenic stops, and local culture, spending at least two to three days is recommended.

Are there bathrooms along the Cabot Trail?

Yes, there are bathrooms available at various points along the Cabot Trail, especially within Cape Breton Highlands National Park and at some restaurants and visitor centers.

What is the best time to visit Cape Breton?

The best time to visit Cape Breton is during the summer months (June to August) for warm weather and outdoor activities, or in the fall (September to October) to enjoy the stunning fall foliage.

Where is the best place to start the Cabot Trail?

The best place to start the Cabot Trail depends on your direction of travel, but Baddeck is a popular starting point due to its central location and access to amenities.

What to Pack for a Cabot Trail Road Trip

lora on cabot trail road trip itinerary

If you plan to enjoy the great outdoors while road tripping in Cape Breton, here’s what I suggest packing.

  • Light hiking boots for the trails. I use La Sportiva Hiking Boots.
  • Small backpack for carrying water & hiking essentials on the trail
  • Car phone mount so you can see directions easily while driving (there is no service for many parts of the trail, so download them offline on Google Maps, or bring a GPS.  
  • Optional: GoPro and car mount for capturing the epic drive!
  • Sunglasses – essential for when you are driving into the sun
  • Rain Jacket /Wind Breaker – based on my experience, this is essential
  • Parks Canada Discovery Pass  – This will get you unlimited admission for 12 months at over 80 parks across Canada. This may be worth it if you plan to visit many national parks, which I highly recommend!
  • Insect Repellant – they are fierce in the summertime
  • Roadside emergency kit
  • Canada Road Map
  • First Aid Kit
  • Blankets and Pillows – Just in case. It can get cold in Canada, even in the summertime!
  • Audiobooks for the road. I love  Audible  for this!
  • A  car charger  for charging your devices

Visiting Cape Breton and driving the Cabot Trail is definitely something that should be on your Canada bucket list. It’s such a beautiful part of the country; I can’t believe I didn’t get here sooner. And with so many hiking trails left to explore, I have a feeling I’ll be back again soon.

Traveling to Nova Scotia? Check out these posts!

  • How to Plan an Epic East Coast Canada Road Trip [2023]
  • Where To Stay In Halifax Nova Scotia
  • The Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail
  • A Perfect One to Three Day Halifax Itinerary

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later!

halifax to cabot trail tour

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

View all posts

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

' src=

Really Really good Tips!! Thank you! My wife and I just bought the tickets to go In September (next month). We have a little dog who always travels with us. I was wondering how pet friendly NS is….

' src=

It’s very pet friendly! I was traveling with my foster dog Layla through Nova Scotia. The Inverary resort even gave her a welcome pack!

' src=

These are indeed some really good options…I think saving and putting into my list… thanks for sharing 🙂

' src=

Glad you found them helpful!

' src=

Really need to visit Nova Scotia still! The scenery looks amazing and your photos are making me very jealous!

It’s a beautiful place! Hope you can visit soon!

' src=

Your photos from the helicopter look incredible. I’ve really been meaning to visit here! I’m pinning for later. 🙂

Thanks so much – the helicopter ride was the highlight for me! Hope you can visit sometime! 🙂

' src=

I was in Nova Scotia with my family years ago. We managed a two night stay at the Keltic Lodge and it was glorious. The drive alone is worth the trip to Cape Breton. Thanks for sharing your tips!

The Keltic Lodge looks awesome! I didn’t get to stay there but the views of Ingonish from there are stunning. Hope you and your family can get back again!

Cabot Trail Discovery Tour

halifax to cabot trail tour

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry/Admission - Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • 454 Chebucto St, Baddeck, NS B0E 1B0, Canada Parking Lot of the Visitor Information Centre, Next to Tom's Pizza Baddeck is 4 hours from Halifax and 1 hour from Sydney by car - please confirm your ability to reach location before booking.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infant seats available
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

halifax to cabot trail tour

  • You'll start at 454 Chebucto St 454 Chebucto St, Baddeck, NS B0E 1B0, Canada Parking Lot of the Visitor Information Centre, Next to Tom's Pizza Baddeck is 4 hours from Halifax and 1 hour from Sydney by car - please confirm your ability to reach location before booking. See address & details
  • 1 Cape Breton Highlands National Park Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
  • 2 Cabot Trail Stop: 6 hours See details
  • You'll return to the starting point

halifax to cabot trail tour

  • 33allynp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Tour Excellent Company. Wonderful owner and drivers. Experience of seeing Nova Scotia will make you want to return. Read more Written October 29, 2023
  • Climber617365 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable experience of Cape Breton Island! The tour was very well organized. It was great to be in two smaller vans rather than a bus. The guides were excellent. The concerts very very well done. The meals very good. We enjoyed everything. Read more Written October 17, 2023
  • lmv501 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cabot Discovery Tours - Great Scots Tour We had an amazing Great Scots Tour! Jerry was our tour guide and he was knowledgeable and very accommodating. We stopped at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and the Highland Village, with ample time to see the sights. The views on the Cabot Trail were amazing! We would highly recommend this tour. Read more Written October 6, 2023
  • SebVancouverD 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing all around! We booked a private excursion (6 of us) to the Cabot Trail from Sydney, where we stopped from 7-4 during our cruise. 100% satisfied! If you are considering it, stop thinking about it and book it. Amazing service while booking it: quick responses to my questions and to the point. So pleased with our driver/guide Frank: lot of very good information, great storyteller, and very flexible when it came to stops (where and how long for). It was clear that his priority was: us having the best time. Why a private tour? We saved a lots of time on stops as it was only us up/down; it was all about us - easier to please 6 than 40; and it was a full day tailored to us and our interests. As said above book this excursion with Cabot Discovery Tours ; you won’t regret it. Read more Written October 2, 2023
  • R1015GHsusanc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles On a rainy September day, four of us thoroughly enjoyed our informative and scenic day with Brian. He filled the day with stories and history as only a native could. In addition he managed to snag four tickets to the wonderful Ceilidh in Baddeck, a perfect ending to our visit to Cape Breton. We are grateful for his extra efforts! Read more Written October 2, 2023
  • dentogi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cabot Trail private tour excursion Four of us shared the private tour with Jerry (owner). He drove us in a very comfortable Toyota Sienna minivan with roomy seating. Jerry used a microphone in the van playing through the speakers and it was really easy to hear. He is very knowledgeable about Cape Breton and our tour of about 2/3 of the eastern part of the Cabot Trail gave us s a great overview. He said the western portion is more scenic - so if you have more time -it might be better. We were on a ship and he met us 50 ft from the gangway and brought us back there - very convenient ! We made several stops including a good lunch. Our trip concluded with a short ride on the cable ferry. Highly recommend Jerry and his company. Read more Written September 29, 2023
  • aqua-myra 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cabot trail Our driver Frank showed us much interesting and stunning place and had so much interesting facts and storys . We had a very delicious seafood chowder up on a cliff with stunning view of the sea. Read more Written September 24, 2023
  • normab841 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Scot Tour- Shared Cruise Excursion Jerry was our guide for the day. He was on time with a comfortable passenger van. Another couple from our cruise ship and us made for a total of 4 on the tour. The excursion had lots of scenic driving, but we had time to walk at the Edison museum and the Highland Village at our own time- meeting back up at a time set by Jerry. We really enjoyed the costumed actors that were stationed around the village . We also opted to have time to walk in Baddeck instead of a sitdown lunch. Jerry is a great representative of the friendly people who live in a beautiful scenic place. Would recommend this tour company. Read more Written September 12, 2023
  • newmexone 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Tour We spent an amazing afternoon with tour guides Misty and Frank. We booked the Taste of Sydney Tour and had a great experience. As we had not been to Sydney before, we wanted to explore the city rather than head off to the countryside. As it turned out, given the less than splendid weather, we made the right choice. Our first stop was the Jost House which dates to 1764. Our tour guide, Jay, was exceptional at bringing history to life. He also explained the derivation of terms like “reading between the lines”, “tying the knot” and “sleeping tight”. For those who enjoy obscure facts, this was great. We next headed to a local cidery for a sampling of what was on top. A stop at Breton Brewery was next and we got to sample a number of excellent stouts. As we drove through Sydney, we had an in-depth commentary on the city and it’s past and it’s prospects for the future. The final stop was at a restaurant where we got to sample lobster wontons, delicious mussels and a hearty fish soup. As a special treat, we got to try the local whisky, Glen Breton. This was a delightful way to spend the afternoon and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this tour or any others offered by Cabot Discovery Tours. Read more Written May 3, 2023
  • smz42 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An informative tour with a wonderful guide We were going on a cruise that had a stop in Sydney on Cape Breton Island. I never take the ship's large-group shore excursions, instead opting for a small-group tour with a highly-rated local guide or tour company. My research led me to Cabot Discovery Tours (CDT), which is top rated on Trip Advisor, Nicelocal.ca, Facebook, and Google. Misty MacDonald and CDT (and all of the knowledgeable guides that work there) get glowing reviews. Misty was very responsive to my numerous inquiries, made many helpful suggestions, and was willing to customize our tour to fit our available time off the ship and include sites that would interest us the most. Misty was our guide for the day and was very knowledgeable. On our drive from the ship, she conveyed the history of the island from the early settlers and the economic changes that have occurred over the years. We took the Private Great Scot's tour, which allowed us to limit the number of people on the tour. The tour included stops at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum in Baddeck, the Highland Village in Iona, and numerous photo opportunities around the Bras D'or Lakes. CDT includes the entrance fee to all museums and/or attractions on the tour, which is something that many other tour companies don't do. The Alexander Graham Bell Museum was way more than I expected. It was substantial in size and told the story of his life with many pictures, artifacts, prototypes and videos. It also showed that he discovered many things besides the telephone. The Highland Village Museum was another interesting attraction. It is an outdoor living history museum (with many old buildings) dedicated to Nova Scotia’s Gaelic folk-life, culture, and language. People in each building are dressed in period costume and explain what took place in those buildings. Misty took us to a local restaurant on the waterfront in Baddeck where we had a delicious lunch. I highly recommend Cabot Discovery Tours for a top-notch tour experience. You won't be disappointed. Read more Written November 9, 2022
  • 775kathyg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cabot Trail-Can’t Miss With Discovery Tours! From the time of booking, I knew I’d chosen the right company. Misty was cheerfully informative and accommodating, no matter how many times I called or emailed or called before the trip. The trip itself was fantastic. The Cabot Trail is not to be missed! We learned so much more about the trail than we would have had we drove it ourselves. And our guide, Harry was a hoot! Always smiling, with a great sense of humour, and knowledge of the trail, he knew the best places to stop for photo ops, lunch, and even a souvenir shopping. I would easily do the trail again with Cabot Discovery. No two drives can be the same, and it was great to relax and leave the driving to a professional. Read more Written September 24, 2022
  • Cheryl R 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best informative tour of our trip: Taste of Sydney! This tour was outstanding! It's a new one for Cabot Discovery Tours, and so worth the time to get to know Sydney! Not only did we get great historical and cultural information, we stopped at some local pubs for a true "taste". Everyone, and especially Misty, our guide, was knowledgeable, friendly, and warm in their presentations and hospitality. It was such a lovely place with an interesting history. Information about the Membertou First Nation was shared as well as that about the settlers and seafarers, the economy, and resources. We enjoyed Sydney much more than Halifax (which seemed a bit tired and less well-kept of a community). Read more Written September 12, 2022
  • daberge 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Relaxing and Friendly Super-Small Group Tour We did the Shared Cruise Excursion - Great Scots Tour from Sydney, Nova Scotia. We found our guide, Mari, as soon as we disembarked. She held up a sign with our name so super-easy to find. We found out that there was only one other couple with us on the tour so it was awesome to have just 4 people on the tour. We went in a minivan that Mari drove. She used a microphone so everyone could hear her well with no shouting. Frankly, it felt like having a friend show you around to her favorite spots! Very relaxing and just a wonderful day. As this was the Great Scots tour, we primarily went to the Alexander Graham Bell museum in Baddeck and to the Highland Village Museum in Iona. Along the way, we enjoyed the scenery along the shores of Bras d'Or Lake. For lunch, we stopped at Mari's choice of a great local deli (Herring Choker Deli) and got food to go. It was yummy! Mari was very open and friendly and informative all throughout. The places we went to were all very interesting and the Highland Village was just fascinating! Mari also got us back to the port in Sydney in plenty of time. Read more Written September 6, 2022
  • fetchsammy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best way to see the Cabot trail. Harry gave us a wonderful and informative tour. We feel lucky to have had him as our tour guide. Lots of local information great stories and informative side trips. Read more Written July 26, 2022
  • CanadianBeaver36 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles EXCELLENT! Misty was very helpful and accommodating when we were making our reservation. She easily and happily arranged for us to be picked up at our rental house in a private van. Jerry, her husband, our driver, showed up early which was great! There was a bottle of sanitizer on each door. We felt safe as Jerry was a cautious driver and his van was very clean. He was knowledgeable, informative, personable and friendly. He was a good sport and put up with all of our teasing! The sound system worked very well and he was easy to hear and understand. He was excellent at adapting the tour on the fly to accommodate our wishes. He did not waste time looking for "good spots". He knew exactly where to take us for the best experiences. He picked a perfect spot for our lunch stop. The tour was a good pace and we did not feel rushed. We were extremely pleased and happy with our tour and highly recommend Cabot Trail Discovery Tours. Thanks again Misty and Jerry. From Bev, Karl, Stephanie and Mike Read more Written October 3, 2021

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

cfperry

Cabot Trail Discovery Tour provided by Cabot Discovery Tours

Product overview: cabot trail discovery tour.

Bannockburn

halifax to cabot trail tour

The Cabot Trail

- a new adventure around every turn.

A Discovery Tour of the World-famous Cabot Trail Duration: 6 – 8 hours Your journey around the Cabot Trail will delight and amaze you. A new discovery awaits around almost every turn – some of the most spectacular scenery you have ever witnessed, colourful artisan shops and studios, encounters with wildlife, and much more. This {…}

Read More  

halifax to cabot trail tour

Tour the Cabot Trail & Stay in Baddeck

Make beautiful Baddek your home base on the Cabot Trail. Take your spectacular Discovery Tour of the Cabot Trail and stay in the beautiful Village of Baddeck on the Bras d’Or Lakes. Baddeck is famously known as the home of Alexander Graham Bell and has a National Historis Site in his name. It’s also a {…}

Cruise Ship Excursions

Discovery Tours of the spectacular Cabot Trail or the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes. When your cruise ships docks, we can take you on a Cape Breton Adventure! The Cabot Trail Experience Your experience on the Cabot Trail will delight and amaze you. A new discovery awaits around almost every turn – some of the {…}

halifax to cabot trail tour

More Travel Information

halifax to cabot trail tour

Driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia

Tips for making the most of your coastal island road trip

halifax to cabot trail tour

Ron Garnett/Getty Images

The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. Many visitors to Cape Breton Island set aside an entire day—or several days—to see the Cabot Trail's sights. Because there are so many scenic overlooks, cultural heritage sites and hiking trails on the Cabot Trail, spending some time planning your excursion will make your road trip much more enjoyable.

Choose a Direction

The Cabot Trail makes a loop around Cape Breton Island, cutting across the top of the island and closely following the western and eastern coastlines. If you travel in a clockwise direction, you'll be on the "inside" lane as you drive along both coasts. Because the road goes up and down steep grades and curves, the clockwise direction is better for drivers (and passengers) who dislike driving next to steep drops. Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you travel clockwise.

Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. While this direction is less popular (it's billed as the direction for the brave driver), it may be easier to handle if you dislike slow traffic, as fewer people travel counter-clockwise.

Whichever direction you choose, you need to be aware of a few essential facts:

  • Once you begin this drive, you have to finish it, either by completing the loop or by turning around and retracing your path. You cannot cut across the center of Cape Breton Island.
  • Tour buses and RVs move very slowly on the grades. Passing lanes are few and far between. Pack your patience.
  • If you are driving your own car, be sure the brakes are in good shape before attempting this drive. You do not want your brakes to fail on one of the 13 percent grades.

Understand the Drive

According to the Cabot Trail tourism map, available at Nova Scotia welcome centers and various museums and merchants on Cape Breton Island, the entire Cabot Trail drive takes approximately five hours. What the map does not tell you is that this time is calculated without any stops. If you plan to pause for meals, hikes or sightseeing beyond the occasional photo stop, you will need to allow an entire day, at a minimum, to drive the Cabot Trail.

Nova Scotia's roads are, for the most part, well-maintained. The Cabot Trail, however, has sections that could stand to be completely repaved. Nova Scotia's harsh winters and summer tourists' vehicles take their toll on the Cabot Trail. There are potholes, bumpy cold-patched areas and gravelly spots along the way. Take your time, especially on blind curves. You never know when you will come upon an accident.

The posted speed limits, particularly on sharp curves, are not meant to be mere suggestions. Slow down to the posted speed, even if you are an expert driver and the sun is shining. The curves are sharp, the grades are steep, and the other drivers may not be experienced mountain drivers. Use extra caution if you are driving the Cabot Trail in fog, mist, or rain, all of which are common on Cape Breton Island.

Plan Your Stops

Most visitors want to stop here and there along the Cabot Trail, not only to stretch their legs or take photos but also to more fully enjoy the Cabot Trail experience. If you are planning to stop along the Acadian coast, in the national park or near Ingonish's beaches, take a few minutes to think about how long you plan to spend at each place. Add this to your five hour drive time to determine when you should begin your Cabot Trail adventure.

Some of the more popular Cabot Trail stops include:

  • Margaree Harbour and villages in the Margaree River valley, for fishing, the Salmon Museum, and water sports
  • Chéticamp, the largest village on Cape Breton Island's Acadian coast
  • Pleasant Bay, for whale watching
  • Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints ("look-offs") in Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • Ingonish and the surrounding beaches, for water sports, golf, and scenery
  • St. Ann's, for the Gaelic College and local art studios
  • Baddeck, for the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, golf and summer ceilidhs (Celtic music and dance events)

If you have extra time, plan to drive up to Cabot's Bay (the presumed site of John Cabot's landing in 1497) and Bay St. Lawrence. You can take a whale watching trip here (allow two to three hours) or enjoy the maritime scenery. If you plan to drive to Meat Cove, one of the northernmost points on the island, be aware that the road is a combination of gravel, dirt, and mud.

Allow for Delays

Build some time into your itinerary for unexpected stops, slow meal service, and traffic issues. Because there is only one road around the island, a serious accident can create traffic problems very quickly.

You may also find that the stunning coastal scenery and the gentle allure of local museums and shops might take more time than planned. If you plan and get an early start, you will still be able to complete your drive before sunset.

Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park

You will need to bring cash for the Cape Breton Highlands National Park entrance fee. The Cabot Trail cuts right through the park, and you will not be able to avoid paying the fee to use the road. Daily fees (as of 2019) are Can$7.80 per adult, Can$6.80 per senior, Can$15.70 per family group (up to 7 in one vehicle), and under 17 free. The park ranger will give you a map of the park, marked with trails, picnic areas, and sites of interest.

In addition to traditional park activities, such as camping, hiking, and fishing, check the park's website for information about special events and programs throughout the year.

Cabot Trail Practicalities

The Cabot Trail is mainly a scenic drive. Choose the best weather days available to make this trip. This is easy if you plan to drive the loop in one day, but becomes more difficult if you are spending a couple of days on the Trail.

Gas stations are few and far between on the Cabot Trail. Gas up before you start driving. You should be able to complete the entire loop on one tank if you are in a car that gets 20-plus miles to the gallon.

If you plan to take a walk or hike, bring insect repellent and use it liberally. Put on some sunscreen, too.

Dispose of all trash in covered, designated containers, particularly in the national park. There are bears and other garbage-loving animals on Cape Breton Island. If you are camping, be sure to secure your food so bears cannot reach it.

Watch for moose. If you crash into one, the best you can expect is an extended hospital stay. Many drivers do not survive direct encounters with these large animals. If you do see a moose, stop and wait for it to go away.

The weather on Cape Breton Island can vary from moment to moment. You can be in a fog one minute and emerge into the sunshine the next. Bring appropriate clothing and be ready for abrupt changes.

Pay attention as you enter and exit the scenic look-off areas. Some drivers do not pay attention to opposing traffic; they pull off and swerve toward an available parking place.

Above all, take your time and enjoy the experience. Driving the Cabot Trail encompasses the best of Cape Breton Island. Savor this time by including a hike to a waterfall or spend a few moments at a scenic overlook. Find a local radio station and listen to the island's music. Stop at a bakery or restaurant and eat with the locals. You won't be sorry; in fact, you'll wish you'd planned more time for the Cabot Trail.

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Canada

Best Places to See Fall Color in the Pacific Northwest

Canada's Most Scenic Drives

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: The Complete Guide

Cape Breton Travel Guide

10 Top Road Trip Routes in the Northeastern US

5 of the Best RV Parks in Nova Scotia

Nelson Lakes National Park: The Complete Guide

Driving in Newfoundland, Canada

Los Angeles to San Francisco on US Highway 101

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

Bryce Canyon National Park: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Destinations in Canada

10 Classic Canadian Hiking Trails

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Bicycle Tours in Maine & Europe

  • Bicycle Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Europe Tours
  • Private Tours
  • What To Expect
  • Weekend Bicycle Tours
  • Weeklong Bicycle Tours
  • Self-Guided Bicycle Tours
  • Multi-Sport Bicycle Tours
  • Canada Tours
  • European Tours

The Cabot Trail: A Nova Scotia Bicycle Tour

Already a member.

Username or E-mail

Forget Password?

Don't have an account? Create one.

Or continue as guest, adding item to wishlist requires an account.

  • 2023 Dates TBC
  • Difficulty Level Moderate/Advanced - My Bike Has A Name

Cape Breton Highlands

A 7-day Nova Scotia cycling trip with Summer Feet

The Cabot Trail bicycle tour is the quintessential Nova Scotia cycling loop. 

Swooping along the paved highway that hugs the sea wall, we enjoy thrilling coastal scenery before some challenging climbs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park. 

Along with some of the most stunning natural landscapes in North America, you also might be lucky enough to spot some of the fantastic wildlife that calls this region home, including moose, bald eagles, and multiple species of whales. 

Enjoy a Nova Scotia bicycle tour at your own pace…

On other days, we’ll ride gentle, congestion-free roads beside the largest lakes in Nova Scotia: the mighty Bras D’Or and Lake Ainslie. 

And, of course, no Cape Breton bicycle tour is complete without a visit to Glenora Distillery for a taste of their renowned Glen Breton single malt. Perhaps an after-dinner ceilidh (traditional Scottish communal dance) might even appeal after a dram or two! 

With your expert Summer Feet guides, you can be assured of a cycling adventure that will be undertaken at a pace that you are comfortable with. 

Enjoy an Unforgettable Biking Holiday in Canada…

What are you waiting for? Book your dream Nova Scotia trip today!

Below is a detailed itinerary. If you have any questions, please get in touch .

(If you’d like to explore further adventures with Summer Feet, explore our Bicycle Tours in New England and Self-Guided Bike Trips in Europe .)

What's Included

  • Six nights’ lodging
  • All lodging taxes and gratuities
  • Most meals – including six dinners, six breakfasts, and seven lunches
  • All taxes and gratuities for these meals
  • Choice of Hybrid or Road bike for the tour
  • Transfer To/From Halifax, NS
  • Experienced Summer Feet Guides
  • Detailed route notes and maps
  • Van support including fresh water, ample snacks, and “relief rides”
  • Summer Feet Souvenirs – a cycling water bottle and t-shirt (available in men’s and women’s fit)
  • Alcoholic beverages are not included in the package price and are always at your discretion
  • Explore the Cape Breton Highlands “one of North America’s best rides” (Bicycling Magazine)
  • Experience Coastal Riding and Celtic culture
  • See whale breaching off the northernmost tip of Nova Scotia

Pick Up/Drop Off

Halifax, NS (YHZ)

By Request for 4 or more people

The Cabot Trail :  $3595.00 pp

Bike Rentals:  Choice of hybrid or road bike included Lodging Extras:  Single Supplement: $600

Day 1 Transfer From the Halifax Airport, Warm Up Ride and Welcome Reception

Leaders will collect you in Halifax on the first morning of our Cabot Trail bicycle tour.  From here we will transfer to Baddeck, a lovely village on the lake. We enjoy a short warm-up ride before a welcome reception to begin our week.

  • Cycling Options:  14 or 24 miles
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Lodging:  First of 2 Nights at  The Inverary Resort

Day 2 The Isle of Iona

This morning we’ll set sail for the Isle of Iona out in the middle of the wide Bras D’Or lake. From the landing we ride around the island on un-trafficked roads with a stop at the Highland Village, a recreation of a 19th century pioneer settlement.

  • Cycling Options:  43 or 75 miles
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
  • Lodging:  Final Night at  The Inverary Resort

Day 3 Lake Ainslie to Glenora

Today we leave Baddeck and ride along the water until we turn inland over rolling hills to the beautiful Margaree Valley. We travel on through more quite back roads and around the clear waters of Lake Ainslie to our home for the night, the Glenora Distillery. Here we can tour the distillery to see exactly how Uisge Beath or Water of Life is made from the pure, clear brook that bubbles outside our rooms that night. After dinner there is always a fiddler in the lounge playing traditional jigs and reels.

  • Cycling Options:  40, 56, or 68 miles
  • Lodging:  Glenora Inn

Day 4 Along the Sea to Cheticamp

On to Cheticamp and Acadian fishing village perched on the shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. After some rolling hills through wooded countryside we emerge to ride close by the sea with stunning vistas on all sides. Stop and visit the spectacular beach and harbor in the old coal town of Inverness before we continue biking to Cape Breton.

  • Cycling Options:  40 to 68 miles
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  • Lodging:   Lauries’ Motor Inn

Day 5 Over the Highlands

This is the big one. two challenging climbs of French and North Mountains as we traverse the highlands across the island to Aspy Bay. Take a break from biking to hike the Skyline Trail, a stunning ridge that abounds with moose and vistas that sweep away to the Magdalene Islands far out at sea. Tonight we can have a bonfire on the beach on the shores of Aspy Bay where  mountains plunge down into the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Cycling Options:  46 miles
  • Lodging:   Markland Coastal Resort

Day 6 Sea and Mountains

We’ll ride next to the ocean as we continue our Cabot Trail bicycle tour, pedaling to our final destination, the beautiful Keltic Lodge on Middle Head, Ingonish Beach. We’ll start the day with a whale watching excursion off the northern most tip of Nova Scotia and after a quick lunch hit the road for some of the most beautiful scenery and sweet riding you’ll find …anywhere!

  • Cycling Options:  46 to 62 miles
  • Lodging:   The Keltic Lodge

Day 7 Climbing Cape Smokey

The conclusion of our Cape Breton bicycle tour kicks off with a dawn ride to the peak of Cape Smokey, high above the sea. After checking out the look off, we’ll button up our jerseys for the 10KM descent back to Ingonish. Then after a bountiful breakfast at the Lodge, we’ll load up, say our farewells and head to Halifax. You’ll take home sweet memories of biking Cape Breton that you will recount fondly for years to come. We conclude with a transfer back to Halifax

  • Cycling Options:  18 miles

Have a question? Please Get In Touch

Deals of the Week   Women’s Day   Up to 50% OFF

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024)

  • Coastal Walks
  • Fully Guided
  • Hiking & Trekking

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

  • Introduction
  • Day 1 Halifax, Nova Scotia - Tour Begins
  • Day 2 Halifax - Peggy’s Cove - Halifax
  • Day 3 Halifax - Mahone Bay - Lunenburg - Halifax
  • Day 4 Halifax - Cape Breton Island - Baddeck
  • Day 5 Baddeck - Cabot Trail - Baddeck
  • Day 6 Baddeck - Prince Edward Island
  • Day 7 Prince Edward Island
  • Day 8 Prince Edward Island - Saint John, New Brunswick
  • Day 9 Saint John
  • Day 10 Saint John - Halifax, Nova Scotia
  • Day 11 Halifax - Tour Ends

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

  • Accommodation

Where You'll Stay

Operated by collette.

Since 1918, Collette has earned a global reputation as a travel company that offers extraordinary experiences, unsurpassed guest service and a wide appeal. Traveling with Collette comes with benefits that take the guided travel experience to another level. Our inclusive tours offer you more value for your money while also ensuring that each element adheres to our exacting standards. With a focus on service and quality, we give you more of what makes travel special. Collette’s diverse travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, city stays and a variety of travel styles and tour types to meet every traveler’s needs. We seamlessly handle the details - all our guests need to do is enjoy the journey. Collette gives back to children in our local communities and around the world through our non-profit organization Collette Cares. With a focus on hunger and education and a robust volunteer program, we aim to make the world we travel a better place. Through volunteerism and grant support, we strive to make a better world – starting right in our own communities. Collette has been honored with Travel Weekly's 21st annual Readers' Choice Awards (RCAs) on December 13 2023. Collette was thrilled to take home two awards at the RCAs this year: Best Tour Operator for US and Best Tour Operator for Canada.

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
  • Tour Operator Collette 4.0

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024) reviewer 1

  • DF Dennis · 24th September 2018 Wonderful trip, excellent buss driver Trip date: August 2018
  • J jdhurleyshawca · 16th September 2018 I loved the freedom of having the trip planned for me. It let me relax and enjoy the views. Trip date: September 2018

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024) reviewer 4

Dates & Availability

PayPal

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

  • Upcoming departures
  • August 2024
  • September 2024
  • Sunday 26 May, 2024 Wednesday 5 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,310 Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 2 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 19 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 26 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 7 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 17 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 14 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 24 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 28 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 7 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Friday 2 Aug, 2024 Monday 12 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • Sunday 18 Aug, 2024 Wednesday 28 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
  • -3% Sunday 25 Aug, 2024 Wednesday 4 Sep, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,494 €3,402 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

  • Currency $ Canadian Dollar Canada

As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

  • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
  • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • For any tour departing before 10th May 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 10th May 2024, a minimum payment of €349 is required to confirm your booking with Collette. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
  • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Collette will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
  • The following cards are accepted for "Collette" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
  • TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Collette. Please familiarise yourself with the Collette payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
  • Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
  • Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
  • Mediterranean Sailing Tours
  • La Roche-Guyon tours
  • Four Corners Budget tours
  • Cambodia and Laos April 2025 tours
  • 13 days in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Manau…
  • ‘Credit for Future’ Campaign
  • Best 7 Day Costa Rica Itineraries (with Revi…

Similar Tours

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal Tour

Keep Exploring Canada

  • Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • 10 Best Stargazing Tours & Trips 2024
  • Best Explorer Tours and Trips 2024/2025
  • Canada from Halifax
  • Canada Explorer
  • 11 days Canada
  • Operators in North America
  • Canadian Maritimes Provinces
  • Nova Scotia
  • Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024) Tours in Canada
  • Explorer Tours
  • Eastern Canada Tours
  • Family Tours
  • Coastal Walks Tours
  • Group Tours
  • Fully Guided Tours
  • Hiking & Trekking Tours
  • Eastern Canada
  • Canada tours

From Halifax to the Cabot Trail: A 3-day Nova Scotia road trip

A group of fiddlers play traditional Nova Scotian music

Things to do

Can't decide between Nova Scotia's city hot spots or country sights? Experience the best of both on this three-day road trip across one of Canada's founding provinces. Get your urban fix in the lively capital of  Halifax External Link Title  before striking out for rural Cape Breton Island and the world-famous  Cabot Trail External Link Title .

What does the drive look like?

  • Launch your trip with a full day of discovery, dining and all the best things to do in Halifax, where maritime history meets modern amenities and attractions.
  • Make tracks by highway and causeway to central Cape Breton Island – you’ll soon see why it was voted  Best Island in Canada External Link Title  in  Travel & Leisure ’s 2020 World’s Best Awards.
  • Spend a day exploring the Cabot Trail loop, sampling classic Cape Breton hospitality along the way. Your jaw will drop – for real – at the sight of this sweeping cliff-and-forest-cloaked coastline. Which is why you’ll be plotting your return trip on the drive back to Halifax.

Experience one of the world’s top road trips with this three-day itinerary as a guide. Tip: if you’ve got an additional day or three, seriously consider extending your stay.

A lobster dinner

Day 1: Halifax

Your starting point

Must-stops along the way

You won't need your car today. Instead, walk your way around this foot-friendly port city to find out why it was named a Top Destination on the Rise in  TripAdvisor's  2018 Travelers' Choice Awards. Here are a few of our  favourite  things to do in Halifax:

  • Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk External Link Title : This 3.75  kilometre  urban wooden walkway - one of the longest in the world - links you to downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions while taking you past public art installations like the droopy ' Fountain' and 'Get Drunk, Fall Down External Link Title ' lampposts. 
  • Hydrostone Market External Link Title : Built in the wake of the catastrophic 1917  Halifax Explosion External Link Title , this  two-storey  heritage structure in the city's North End now houses an array of modern boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Peruse trendy  d?cor  and candles, sample olive oils and balsamic vinegars, and pick up an artisan souvenir or two before heading outside to stroll the quaint streets and green courtyards of the  Hydrostone  District.
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 External Link Title : Make time to visit some of Halifax's other storied sites, including Pier 21 (it turned 90 in 2018) and the family-friendly  Halifax Citadel National Historic Site External Link Title  - don a kilt and be a soldier for a day!

Time your trip with the  Savour Food & Wine Festival External Link Title ,  Halifax Burger Week External Link Title , or  Halifax Oyster Festival External Link Title . Or take your pick from a range of restaurants serving up fresh, local, and seasonal fare.

  • Edna External Link Title : Short for Eat Drink Nourish Always, Edna ranked fourth in  Curated Magazine External Link Title 's 25 Best Places to Eat (2018). Come taste for yourself why locals regularly line up for dinners and brunch at this compact North End diner. Maybe it's the fresh oyster, cheese, and  charcuterie  board, or the N.S. lobster roll with dill  cr?me   fraiche ?
  • The Brooklyn Warehouse External Link Title : Now in its 11th year, this  cosy  eatery in the city's West End continues to draw locals and tourists alike to its Nova-Scotia-forward dishes and drinks. Evolving chalkboard menus beckon with items like local grass-fed beef brisket and the  PigFish  Chowder (Nova Scotia scallops and  confit  pork belly), while the bar serves up local craft beers and bottles of wine. Cheers!
  • The Bicycle Thief External Link Title : Come for the waterfront views, stay for the Italian-inspired fare at this lively waterfront room and patio. Watch ferries ply the  harbour  over plates of Atlantic halibut with spiked Orange  Marmalata  lacquer,  fettuccine   all'aragosta  (Nova Scotia lobster), or fall-off-the-bone roasted beef short rib al  Barolo .
  • DeeDee's Ice Cream External Link Title :  Savour  scoops of small-batch ice cream - made from local dairy milk and cream - at this much-loved family-run shop. Tempting  flavours  include Banana Cardamom, Mexican Chocolate, and Orange Star Anise. But you might want to put back a burrito (meat or veggie) or  quesadilla  first - also on the menu.

End your day

Rest those street-weary feet in a historic hotel, seaside B&B, or modern getaway. After all, the country is calling and you want to be fresh.

  • The Halliburton External Link Title : Sink into comfy duvets and fine linens at this 1809-built hotel, bedecked in red bricks and 19th-century charm.
  • Lord Nelson Hotel External Link Title :  Chandeliered  opulence meets  Halifax Public Gardens External Link Title  views - best enjoyed from the comfort of your soft-hued room.
  • SeaWatch Bed & Breakfast External Link Title : Immerse yourself in all things nautical, from marine  d?cor  to  harbour  views off private decks.
  • Sutton Place Hotel Halifax External Link Title : Jewel-tone finishes, European flair and unmatched modern luxury greet guests in this brand new hotel in the heart of downtown. 

Two pairs of feet dangling off the dock into the water

Day 2: Baddeck

Total drive time: 3.5 hours

Start your engine for today's northeast jaunt to  Baddeck External Link Title  in mid Cape Breton Island. Start your Nova Scotia road trip by following Highway 104 to the 1.6- kilometre Canso Causeway before hanging left onto Highway 105.

  • New Glasgow External Link Title : Glimpse times gone by at the Carmichael-Stewart House Museum before stretching your legs along the town's revitalized riverfront walk - complete with Victorian-style lampposts and marina.
  • Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site External Link Title : Take the White Glove Tour for a hands-on discovery of the famous inventor's photos, personal effects, and creations, including an underwater breathing apparatus.
  • Bras d'Or Lake External Link Title : Sail, kayak, or fish on Canada's largest inland sea, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

It's easy to live like a locavore here, where menus and markets brim with bounty from both land and sea.

  • The Freight Shed External Link Title : Dig into scallops, crab cakes, lobster rolls, peppercorn steak, and locally-famous pancakes, all served up in a minimalist waterside room with wood rafter ceiling and dockside views.
  • The Bite House External Link Title : Sit down to carefully-crafted seasonal plates at this airy 12-seat restaurant tucked inside a century-old farmhouse. Fetching rave reviews from the New York Times and more, chef Bryan Picard's monthly nine-course set menus vary with crab, halibut, Angus beef and lamb - plus vegetables, herbs, and flowers plucked fresh from the field. 
  • Big Spruce Brewing External Link Title : Pop in for a pint of Kitchen Party Pale Ale and leave with a growler of Ready Yer Knot Regatta Red Ale at this on-farm brewery just 13  kilometres  west of  Baddeck  in  Nyanza .

Check into a homey inn or cheery guest house - you're going to need a full night's sleep for tomorrow's Cabot Trail adventures.

  • Silver Dart Lodge External Link Title : Choose from bright cottage-style chalets and lodge rooms on 90 acres overlooking Bras  d'Or  Lake. Prefer a fireplace and spiral staircase? Bed down in the on-site  MacNeil House External Link Title  - a renovated 19th-century mansion.
  • Water's Edge Inn & Gallery External Link Title : Look forward to luxurious linens and antique furnishings in rooms with water views. Peruse pieces by more than 100 maritime artists in the on-site gallery

Two hikers descend the stairs on the Cabot Trail

Day 3: Ch?ticamp

Total drive time: 3 hours

Called the beginning and the end of the 300- kilometre Cabot Trail loop,  Baddeck  is your perfect jumping-off point for this iconic Nova Scotia scenic drive. Named after Italian explorer John Cabot, who landed on these shores in 1497, the winding coastal route climbs from sea-swept beaches and sleepy fishing villages to forested slopes and cliff-tops.

Sure, you can get to  Ch?ticamp  in three hours straight, but you'll want to allow a full day for stops. Check your brakes - sharp curves and steep grades ahead - and fuel up. Then travel counter-clockwise (shown here) to catch outside-lane and sunset views, or clockwise to see the sights from a different angle. Either way, you're in for a treat.

  • Ingonish External Link Title : Gallery hop, fish for salmon and trout, golf at world-renowned  Highlands Links Golf Course External Link Title  or tap your feet at a traditional ceilidh in this five-community stretch along the island's eastern shore.
  • Cape Breton Highlands National Park External Link Title : Protecting some 960 square  kilometres  of north-island wilderness, this rugged oasis tempts with river canyons, thick forest (with fabulous foliage come fall), lakes, beaches, and an ancient plateau. Pick from 26 hiking trails, ranging from the easy Skyline and its St. Lawrence River views - watch for moose and migrating whales - to the challenging  Franey  climb up to flat rocks and 360-degree vistas. Pack a  picnic External Link Title  or  learn to lobster boil External Link Title  on the beach.
  • Pleasant Bay External Link Title : Get ready to spot humpback, pilot, minke, and finback whales from this welcoming fishing village at the Cabot Trail's halfway point. Learn about their habitat and way of life at the  Whale Interpretive Centre External Link Title .
  • Ch?ticamp External Link Title : Pull into this traditional Acadian town just in time to visit the  Les Trois Pignons External Link Title  museum and gallery before catching the sunset from the beach.

Succulent seafood abounds in these parts, but you'll find plenty of other specialties too - from Nova-Scotia-style pub grub to palate-pleasing ethnic fare.

  • Dancing Moose Cafe External Link Title : Fill up on sweet or savory Dutch  pannekoek  - try the bacon-ginger combo - for breakfast or lunch in tiny Birch Plain on the east coast. (Ate too much? Roll into a  cosy  wood  cabin External Link Title  for a nap or the night.)
  • Rusty Anchor External Link Title : Bite into what  National Geographic External Link Title  calls "some of the best lobster rolls on the Cabot Trail - pure lump lobster meat with just a little butter (no celery or salad dressing, thank you) served on a toasted roll." But don't skip the local oysters and mussels at this family-run Pleasant Bay restaurant.
  • Doryman Pub & Grill External Link Title : Tune into live fiddle music while tucking into local  Ch?ticamp   favourite , the  Doryman  Burger. Go big with a steak platter or hot gravy-smothered sandwich.

With a ceilidh or two under your belt, and a four-hour drive back to Halifax tomorrow, it's time to say goodnight. Good thing that a comfy room is just steps away.

  • Ch?ticamp Outback Inn External Link Title : Gray barn wood accents the walls and modern decor lines this newly opened inn's three rooms and one suite.
  • Auberge des P?cheurs Inn External Link Title : Check into down-home east coast hospitality (think friendly service, quilted bedspreads, and nautical appointments) at this Cape-Cod-style structure overlooking the  harbour , fishing wharf, and  Ch?ticamp  Island.

Start planning your next Nova Scotia road trip with  Tourism Nova Scotia External Link Title

Search

Halifax and the Cabot Trail

Self Drive Holiday in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia on Canada’s windswept Atlantic Coast, is almost entirely surrounded by ocean. Little wonder that a road-trip around this rugged province will be as much about the sea as the land. Our ten day fly drive holiday covers many of Nova Scotia’s highlights. You’ll visit the maritime city of Halifax, explore the UNESCO site at Lunenberg, relax at the Trout Point Lodge and follow a stretch of the world-famous Cabot Trail. Throughout your journey, flavours of the sea are never far away. The itinerary can be customized to your travel dates, accommodation preferences and budget.

Self Drive Holiday in Nova Scotia

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

What, where & when.

Arrival in Halifax. Welcome to Nova Scotia’s Provincial Capital. This attractive city is a bustling hub of art galleries, shops, museums, restaurants, sidewalk cafes and vibrant nightlife centred around the picturesque waterfront. Officially founded in 1749 the history dates back even further, to times of the Mi’kmaq natives, European fishermen and the early Acadians, who came long before the British. Overnight Halifax.

This morning enjoy a city tour of Halifax – take in the sights of Halifax Historic Properties, Spring Garden Road, Province House and much more. Later, depart Halifax and drive the south shore along the Lighthouse Route. En route visit Peggy's Cove, a picturesque fishing village surrounded by bare granite and coastal barrens and home to Nova Scotia's most visited lighthouse. Continue on to Mahone Bay, a relaxing seaside town renowned for its quiet beauty and internationally known churches. Further along the route you will arrive in Lunenburg. The region’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg is widely touted as one of the most beautiful towns not just in Nova Scotia, but in all of Canada. Located along a harbour and bordered by dramatic hills, the town is dotted with beguiling pastel-coloured buildings, most of which were constructed between the 18th and 19th centuries. These historic houses are characterized by the unique 'Lunenburg Bump', a five-sided dormer window built over the front door. The town’s vibrant atmosphere adds to its draw, with its downtown area buzzing with offbeat boutiques, progressive galleries and artisan shops. Overnight in Lunenburg.

Today you’ll continue to Trout Point Lodge where you’ll stay for two nights. Secluded deep in the heart of the Nova Scotian Tobeatic wilderness the luxury adventure inn is the premier destination for stargazing in the Maritimes. The lodge offers guided eco adventures including canoeing, interpretive dark sky adventures and cookery courses. The Japanese inspired forest bathing allows guests to unwind in the fresh air surrounded by the pristine forest of towering spruce, birch and maple trees. Locally inspired menus are served in the renowned restaurant, where guests can expect the freshest Atlantic seafood, meats and homegrown vegetables, matched to an extensive award winning wine list.

Relax and enjoy the surroundings of Trout Point Lodge. Sitting on the edge of two river systems and vast forests, the hotel is the perfect hideaway for classic Canadian adventures. Today you have the option to be as active or relaxed as you wish. For the more active, the lodge offers canoeing and kayaking, guided hiking and nature walks and wild river swimming. Alternatively unwind during a forest bathing session, join a cooking class, relax in the outdoor barrel sauna and wood-fired hot tub or simply relax in front of a roaring fire amidst wilderness splendour.

Continue on to Annapolis Royal, nestled in the Annapolis Valley. Sightseeing suggestions in the area include Fort Anne National Historic Site, Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, the O'Dell House Museum, Sinclair Inn National Historic Site, a delightful waterfront boardwalk and much more. Continue on to Digby overlooking the broad Annapolis Basin and the ferry gateway to New Brunswick. Take an optional whale watching tour from Digby. The Annapolis Valley area is known as wine country, be sure to visit one of the many wineries in the area. Overnight Wolfville.

Optional: Dining on the Ocean Floor Experience

This morning you can tour Pictou. Depart Pictou and continue to Cape Breton via the Canso Causeway and onto Baddeck. This scenic village overlooks the beautiful Bras d'Or Lakes and the most notable resident historically was Alexander Graham Bell - you can visit the National Historic Site named after him. Overnight Baddeck.

Today you will follow a section of the famous Cabot Trail - one of the most spectacular drives in all of Canada which winds around the rocky splendour of Cape Breton's northern shore, ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The park has 26 hiking trails ranging from 20-minute short walks to challenging hikes through stunning mountain and coastal landscapes. Overnight in Sydney.

From here you will drive along the Eastern Shore and follow the Marine Drive Route where you'll find nature, history and culture, as well as rugged coasts, tranquil bays and beaches, unspoiled forest fauna and crystal clear lakes and streams. Be sure to visit the communities en route such as Guysborough - an inviting neighbourhood with distinctive architecture overlooking Chedabucto Bay before arriving at Liscomb Mills. Overnight in Liscomb Mills.

Take a leisurely drive back to Halifax Stanfield International Airport, ready for your onward journey. En route visit Musquodoboit Harbour & Valley – a haven for nature lovers, and Martinique Beach – the longest beach in the province. If you wish, you can stay overnight near to Halifax airport adding an extra night to the trip. The itinerary will be tailored around your travel dates and flight itinerary.

From £1490 per person (excluding flights) based on two travelling

This roughly converts to: 1,714 EUR | 1,952 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

Additional Info

This trip has flexible daily departures

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

Winter

IDEAL TRIP LENGTH:

Join our newsletter.

Be the first to hear about our latest offers and news ? We use a 3rd party service to help us manage our mailing list - please read our privacy policy for details.

Intrepid Escape

  • Bungy Jumping
  • Horse Riding
  • Ice-Climbing
  • Kite-Surfing
  • Motor Sport
  • Rock Climbing
  • Scuba Diving
  • Shark Diving
  • Snowboarding
  • Stand Up Paddle-Boarding
  • Wakeboarding
  • White Water Rafting

Tips & Guides , Travel

Road trip nova scotia: cape breton, cabot trail, and more.

Page Contents

I often write about bucket list road trips , I’m about to feature a whole section about it. It’s always been the way I’ve loved to travel most, and this road trip Nova Scotia is no exception.

In this trip we covered a New Brunswick and Nova Scotia road trip on an epic 10-day trip.

It was my first visit to Nova Scotia, which has long been on my road trip list! This article focuses on the things we did along the Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail part of the route. Cape Breton is a Bucket List Road trip, and I love to feature those.

We would be starting and finishing the trip in Halifax, which has direct flights from London. And picking up a rental car here and returning it to the same location. So, let’s get stuck into our itinerary.

As mentioned, this trip would start and finish in Halifax. We wouldn’t have long here sadly, but I recommend at least an afternoon and night. Halifax has a great vibe to it and an interesting history. You have an incredible mix of architecture, some from the 18 th and 19 th century and some much more modern.

Did you know? Halifax is the historical capital of Atlantic Canada!

One thing I love is that it’s a city that can mostly be explored on foot. If you do have time, you can get lost in the galleries, museums and cafes. Not to mention the waterfront and new harbour development.

As we didn’t have long, we took the Harbour Hopper boat/land tour. The Hopper is an amphibious vehicle previously used to carry troops. It starts at a must visit viewpoint, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, before passing St Paul’s Church and Spring Garden Road.

And then, into the sea! As cheesy as I thought this would be, it is pretty cool to then be cruising along the harbour and getting a view of the Halifax harbour from the water. It can get chilly on the water so bring an extra layer!

Finally, Halifax is a great base for day trips to Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg , the most popular ones around, and I recommend booking soon to secure your spot.

Sleep here : The Prince George Hotel . A beautiful and clean hotel right in the city center near all the major attractions.

Eat here : We ate at the BG Halifax Beer Garden, easy going food at a good price. And great quality too, and pint and fish and chips were a great way to start off my Nova Scotian food adventure!

Where to Stay in Halifax

Here’s a list of great places to stay in Halifax:

Luxury: The Prince George Hotel

Nestled in Halifax city centre, The Prince George Hotel is near all the major tourist attractions and offers some of the best rooms you’ve ever seen.

Other than its beautiful, spotless rooms with countless amenities, you’ll be greeted with an indoor pool and a gym to stay fit while travelling. When it comes to food, their on-site restaurant has delicious treats, and you’ll have a fabulous time when staying here.

halifax to cabot trail tour

Mid-Range: Cambridge Suites Hotel Halifax

A mid-range hotel in downtown Halifax is Cambridge Suites Hotel, and despite the lower rates, you’re still going to get exceptional customer service and modern rooms.

Among the amenities, you’ll get a microwave, a mini-fridge, a flat-screen TV and fast WiFi. All rooms include a complimentary breakfast buffet and you’ll love every part of your stay here.

halifax to cabot trail tour

Budget: Lake City Motel

Located right outside Halifax in the quiet town of Dartmouth, Lake City Motel offers some of the best deals around with clean, modern rooms.

You’ll find all the amenities you need for a few days, it’s near the airport which is convenient, and it’s very quiet as opposed to the central area of Halifax which can be crowded. Overall, a great place to sleep near Halifax.

halifax to cabot trail tour

Best Tours in Halifax, Nova Scotia

The best way to discover Halifax is to join a tour with a local guide that knows everything about the area. Here are the best tours I recommend to make the most of your time in Nova Scotia.

Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

If there’s a tour you don’t want to miss in Halifax is the historical trip around town. That’s right, Halifax is a city steeped in rich history and culture.

This small-group tour takes you on a journey through history to learn about the legendary Titanic and the mythical Halifax Explosion that shaped the city’s identity.

You’ll pass by over 40 stops in town, from Georges Island National Historic Site to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to Halifax City Hall and many more.

Transportation is also included in the tour, which means you can leave your car for a break from the road trip and let the driver do the rest!

WiFi is included onboard, so you can share the memories in real-time too!

Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley

If you have more time in town, this is definitely a day trip you should consider from Halifax.

This Nova Scotia Day Tour will take you through the stunning Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, where you can marvel at the picturesque views of the sea crashing against the rocky shore.

You’ll also visit Queensland Beach where you can work on your tan or go for a dip in the water.

After that, you’ll stop at the Lunenburg Historic District, where you can step back in time and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site .

With our air-conditioned vehicle and the freedom to follow a loose itinerary, you’re sure to have a relaxed and adventurous day out.

Wine and Lunch Escape in Halifax

Have you ever heard the saying “wine not?” Well, we have the perfect response to that question. Join a guide on a scenic drive through Nova Scotia’s picturesque Annapolis Valley where you’ll taste some of the best wine and food around.

This small group tour takes you to the best wineries in the area to get a wine tasting and learn about the manufacturing and terroir of each winery.

You’ll also get to enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the second winery, served with your choice of beer, wine, or cider.

This wine and food tour lasts about 6.5 hours, which is a nice break from driving around Nova Scotia, and you’ll be ready for the rest of the trip after this!

Baddeck, Cape Breton

Today we covered a lot of distance as we wanted to centre the first part of our road trip around Cape Breton. And there were some stunning views along the way.

We were stopping at Baddeck to break up the journey and find a little peaceful part of Cape Breton before starting the Cabot Trail. Baddeck is right on the Bras d’Or Lake and the former summer home to Alexander Graham Bell, credited as the inventor of the telephone.

Speaking of Mr Bell, the Alexander Graham Bell Museum is a must visit, featuring models, replicas, photos, artifacts and films all about the work of Bell. And he didn’t just work on the telephone, he had a number or achievements and inventions.

You could also spend a few hours here walking the shores of the Lake and exploring it’s small harbourside.

Sleep here : We stayed at the Inverary Resort , a lovely lakeside property with an adventure centre offering kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding. The rooms are spacious, and they have an onsite bar with food and live music, as well as a lakeside restaurant.

Eat here : On the way to Baddeck stop off at Charlene’s Restaurant, a local’s favourite hotspot. This is a no fuss diner, with award-winning seafood chowder. It has a real family and local vibe to it, and a welcoming atmosphere. You can also dine at the lakeside restaurant at Inverary Resort above.

Best Tours in Baddeck, Cape Breton

The best way to discover Cape Breton is to join a tour with a local guide that knows everything about the area. If you have more time in the area, these 2 tours are 5-hour long, which is great as a half day experience.

Best of Cape Breton Tour from Sydney

Your adventure starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Sydney and you’ll drive around the city, showcasing some of Sydney’s must-see spots like St. Patrick’s Church and the Cossit House Museum.

Next, you’ll head off to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, where you’ll be transported back in time to the 18th century and discover history of the Anglo-French struggle for Canada.

Your guide will take you on a journey through the fortress, acting as your personal time machine to explore the events, architecture, and people who shaped this site, all while learning about life as it was centuries ago.

Once you’re done in Sydney, you’ll head off to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum in Baddeck, the place where the telephone inventor called home.

All in all, it’s a great tour to enjoy when in Cape Breton, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

Baddeck & Bell Museum Tour

If you want to stick to Baddeck and see the highlights here, then this is a great option.

Baddeck is known for Alexander Graham Bell’s fascinating life, and you’ll tour his museum with a private guide, which is brilliant, as opposed to joining a big group.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll discover the genius inventions that emerge from Bell’s mind. You’ll get to see replicas of the Silver Dart Plane, the first successful plane in Canada, and the HD4, the world’s first hydrofoil.

After that, you’ll explore Baddeck with your guide. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore the charming little shops and cafes, all while taking breathtaking views around the village.

This is a good half-day tour in Baddeck to join when stopping on your Nova Scotia road trip!

After a quick stop at the World’s Largest Fiddle in Sydney , we headed to Louisbourg. If you are going to stop in Sydney, allow over 2 hours for this journey.

We were going to spend the day at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site . Known as the largest reconstruction project in North America, it represents a ‘living history’ in a hands-on step back in time.

The original settlement was founded in 1713 by the French, before being fortified against the threat of British invasion. It was later besieged twice and destroyed in the 1760s.

There’s so much to do here, we headed for a traditional lunch for the villagers at Restaurant de la Marine (I had a turkey pie). Then had a tasting of local beer, cider and fortress rum at La Taverne Storehouse.

In the afternoon we saw a cultural demonstration at the Mi’kmaw interpretive centre, before an example of a typical shaming of a criminal! And finally, we shot a muscat. Yes, a muscat!

Sleep here : On a beautiful peninsula overlooking the ocean and Louisbourg harbour sits North Star . Probably my favourite room (and balcony) of the trip, stunning. From North Star you can also walk along the Lighthouse and Old Town Trails, both are quite short (around 2km) and offer history and outstanding views.

Eat here : The North Star also has The Bothy, their onsite restaurant, which serves locally sourced produce and dishes to highlight Cape Breton and the Maritimes.

Have you seen the rest of my articles on Canada ?

The Cabot Trail

And now begins the bucket list road trip part of this adventure. This was probably the first pin on the map when we started to plan the trip, the Cabot Trail.

The Cabot Trail is a coastal highway and one of the most spectacular drives in North America. It meanders through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Think hiking, gondolas, vistas, stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, bald eagles, and the chance to spot minke or pilot whales!

This is the kind of place you could spend a week, we had a couple of days, so here’s the places I recommend you visit.

When driving on your Nova Scotia road trip, I recommend getting a Cabot Trail audio guide, which is available on both Viator and GetYourGuide .

This is basically an audio guide that you can listen while driving, and you’ll learn stories of the area, as well as different quizzes, which is not only fun but also educative!

Cape Smokey & Ingonish

Atlantic Canada’s first and only Gondola. This is the latest resort development, and the top has 3 separate viewing platforms and a cold Cape Smokey pilsner! But you need to earn it, you can do the short hike to a lake at the top.

Ingonish is another place you could spend days not hours. There are a number of picture-perfect beaches, lush green valleys and rugged headlands and viewpoints. This is also where you’ll enter the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you’ll need to pick up a pass from the visitor centre.

The next couple places are inside the National Park, but it’s really worth noting that we just scratched the surface of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park , so consider spending a few days here if you have the time.

Skyline Trail

All along the Cabot trail be prepared to stop as there are some fantastic viewpoints along the way. And add the Beulach Ban Falls to that list, the car park is right by the falls (although there is a much longer hike to it if you prefer).

I’ve known about the Skyline Trail for some time, after seeing it listed as one of the best short hikes in Canada. It’s approximately 6.5km, which can take around 2-3 hours. However, if you keep moving you can do it in under 2.

It’s a loop hike and has come incredible views over the Gulf of St Lawrence, and a purpose-built viewing deck. Look out for Moose, Bald Eagles, Bears and other birdlife.

Sleep here : Cornerstone Motel is right on the edge of the National Park and in the heart of nature. It’s a family run motel with friendly and helpful owners and offers private walking trails along the Cheticamp River.

Eat here : L’abri is a real local’s favourite, and to get in here you’ll need to book in advance. It was created by two locals with a desire to see their home village flourish. Meaning ‘The Shelter’, there is a friendly and warm atmosphere, with classic food, cocktails and ocean views.

The Cornerstone Motel is just a few minutes’ drive from Cheticamp, so the following day we were keen to find out about some of the Acadian history and traditions in this French Acadian fishing village.

Our first stop was the Elizabeth LeFort Gallery and Museum at Les Trois Pignons . LeFort was the first person in the world to make portraits from hooked rugs! And her gallery is fascinating and even features our very own late Queen Victoria and King Charles, as well as portraits of US presidents.

There is also a gallery and collections from Marguerite Gallant, featuring hundreds of antiques reflecting the daily life of the Chéticamp settlers.

I also recommend a stop at Inverness on your way to the Glenora Inn & Distillery.

Glenora Inn & Distillery

Glenora Inn & Distillery is home to North America’s first single malt whisky distiller. It was started in the 1800s when Scottish immigrants flocked to Cape Breton, it’s said they settled here as the landscape resembled that of the Highlands.

You can take distillery tours between 9am and 5pm and it last around 20 minutes. The tour could use a bit of updating, but do you get taste the whisky at the end!

Alternatively, grab yourself a spot at the bar or some lunch. We sat at the bar, sipped a whisky and watched the live musician, I felt right at home!

Glenora is also part of the Ceilidh Trail , a coastal drive between Margaree Harbour and Port Hastings.

The final stop in Cape Breton Island is Judique, where you could have lunch at the Celtic Music interpretive Centre. The centre was built to share the culture of Cape Breton, and professional musicians are always there to give demos.

There is an exhibition and museum you can tour, and if you make sure you’re there between 11:30am and 3pm there will be live music!

Mini-Cabot Trail

A little bonus tip as you head south and leave Cape Breton Island is to drive the ‘Mini-Cabot Trail’. It’s essentially a short detour from the main road, heading north on the #337 from Antigonish, before picking up the #245.

The scenery was great, and you can stop and admire the views at Cape George Lighthouse. But my favourite spot and the reason for adding this detour was the Steinhart Distillery .

Thomas Steinhart has a tradition of craft distilling in his family for over 300 years. And he has brought that experience and tradition to Nova Scotia distilling a variety of spirits. But what I really loved was the atmosphere and community developed here.

We sampled gin, whiskey and vodka before enjoying one of the 9zero2 beers outside, watching live music with views over Prince Edward Island. Perfect.

Sleep here : We were heading south and over to New Brunswick, so the perfect pitstop was La Digue Suites . They are located in a nice area and have very clean rooms. And if you’re feeling brave, why not go for a morning sea swim to wake you up?

This concludes the Nova Scotia leg of this epic road trip. Have you been to Nova Scotia? Is there anything you would add to this list? Please let me know in the comments below.

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

0 thoughts on “ Road Trip Nova Scotia: Cape Breton, Cabot Trail, and More ”

Pingback: Bucket List Road Trip: New Brunswick & the Bay of Fundy, 2023 updated! - Intrepid Escape

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

CabotTrail.com

halifax to cabot trail tour

Check-in date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Check-out date 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31.

halifax to cabot trail tour

The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia Cape Breton, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. Many visitors to Cape Breton set aside an entire day – or two, three or four days – to see the sights along the Cabot Trail. Because there are so many scenic overlooks, cultural heritage sites, whale watching hiking trails and guided tours on the Cabot Trail, spending some time planning your excursion and accommodations will make your road trip much more enjoyable.

halifax to cabot trail tour

The Cabot Trail makes a loop around Cape Breton Island, cutting across the top of the island and closely following the western and eastern coastlines. If you travel in a clockwise direction, you'll be on the "inside" lane as you drive along both coasts. Because the road goes up and down steep grades and curves, the clockwise direction is better for drivers (and passengers) who dislike driving next to steep drops. Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you are traveling clockwise.

  • St. Ann's, for the Gaelic College and local art studios;
  • Baddeck, for the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, golf and summer ceilidhs (Celtic music and dance events).

halifax to cabot trail tour

  • Whale_Tours
  • Transformational Travel
  • CTV Segments
  • Travel Resources
  • Promote Your Destination
  • Promote Your Adventure
  • Promote Your Product
  • Speak At Your Event
  • Learn To Blog

halifax to cabot trail tour

  • British Columbia
  • Newfoundland
  • Nova Scotia
  • Prince Edward Island
  • Northern Ireland

Logo

Nova Scotia RV Road Trip 2024 – Halifax to Cape Breton Ultimate 14-Day Itinerary 

Day 1 & 2 – halifax region, day 3 – halifax to liverpool , peggy’s cove – nova scotia rv road trip, day 4 – liverpool to yarmouth  , day 5 – yarmouth to annapolis royal  , best rv campgrounds in annapolis royal , day 6 – annapolis royal to kejimkujik national park , day 7 – kejimkujik national park to truro (via grand-pré) , day 8 – truro to pictou (via cape chignecto) , day 9 – pictou to cheticamp , best campgrounds in cheticamp for your nova scotia rv road trip, day 10 – cheticamp to baddeck (via cape breton national park)  , day 11 – baddeck, day 12 – baddeck to louisbourg , day 13 – louisbourg to sherbrooke , day 14 – sherbrooke to halifax , what to take on an rv road trip:, what is the best month to go to nova scotia, what should i not miss in nova scotia.

Are you looking for the perfect summer road trip? One that will take you to beautiful world-renowned destinations all while travelling comfortably in an RV? If so, a Nova Scotia RV road trip is just what you need! With plenty of RV parks and campgrounds to choose from and an abundance of things to see and do, Nova Scotia is the perfect destination for travellers looking for adventure.

Ultimate Nova Scotia Road RV Trip Itinerary

The best part? We’ve done all the work for you… putting together the ultimate 14-day Nova Scotia RV road trip itinerary for you. This extensive article will give you a day-by-day playbook on what to do, top attractions, fun adventures, and the best place to camp each night. Ready? Set? Let’s RV through Nova Scotia!

Disclaimer: While I share my own thoughts and stories about these experiences, should you click on the affiliate links, I may receive a small commission on that sale which helps fund Adventure Awaits.

Settle in and start exploring on your own schedule.  

view of downtown halifax from the water on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

If you’re looking for a stunning seaside destination with plenty of history, Halifax is the place for you. Halifax is rich in maritime culture and plays an important role in Canadian history. The Halifax waterfront is home to the iconic Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress that served as a British military base for over 200 years. Today, the Citadel is a national historic site and one of the top tourist attractions in Halifax. Just down the street from the Citadel is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which houses exhibitions on everything from early shipbuilding to the devastating Halifax Explosion of 1917. 

Halifax Harbour Tour

girl climbing on board an electric tour boat in halifax

One of the best ways to start off your tour of Halifax is on the water, we loved the intimate small cruise experience that we had on Halifax Boat Tours with Captain Colin. No visit to Halifax would be complete without exploring its vibrant downtown core, which is packed with great shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can spend a whole week exploring just the Halifax Regional Municipality District so be sure to not only hit the big sites but check out this article to find some of the not-as-well-known gems the city has to offer. 

Halifax Sailing Tour

close up view of the sail of a sailboat on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

If you’re really wanting to get into the East Coast spirit nothing is more appropriate than heading out on a sailing excursion. “Soak up the coastline views in this small group sunset cruise out of Halifax Harbour.” You’ll sail down the narrows of the Northwest Arm and experience a stunning sunset all while enjoying locally sourced wine and cheese. 

Click here to book your Halifax Sunset Wine and Cheese Yacht Sailing adventure!

Is Halifax Nova Scotia Worth Visiting?

woman walking through the doors at Pier 21 in halifax

Hands down if you’re planning a trip to Nova Scotia you need to stop and explore this beautiful city. A unique mix of European influence, with deep ties to their Maritime heritage, welcomed by the kindest people on the planet, this city is something that has to be seen and explored. 2022 was my first trip to Halifax and I can assure you it won’t be our last (we’re already planning our next trip back!). 

RV Parking Halifax 

canadream rv rental set up at a campsite on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

Parking an RV in Halifax can be quite difficult so we opted to do two different things. The easiest was staying at the Shubie Park Campground and using that as a base camp for exploring Dartmouth and Halifax. Dartmouth is just across the harbour from downtown Halifax and so the Shubie Park Campground is a great place to park the RV in Halifax and then launch your adventures from there. 

The second option when we were staying further out was to park at a large big box store on the edge of the city and then take a $13 Uber ride into the downtown core. This convenient option was welcomed by the retailers as we’d often stop and restock the fridge before hitting the road again. 

236 KM/91 MI – Approx. 2 hours 46 minutes 

SS Atlantic in Terrence Bay

halifax to cabot trail tour

After picking up your RV you’ll head west along Highway 3 and then take the 103, and then the 33 down to your first stop, the SS Atlantic in Terrance Bay. If you’re a history buff, make time to visit this shipwreck and memorial site. In 1873, the SS Atlantic struck land and sunk taking nearly 500 lives with it. This is a smaller seaside community with narrow roads and less parking so take your time and find places to park as you may still be adjusting to RV life and don’t want to get cramped into a spot where you can’t turn around. 

girl walking along waterfront with the peggys cove lighthouse behind her on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

Situated on the Eastern Shore of St. Margarets Bay, Peggy’s Cove is one of Nova Scotias’ most popular tourist destinations. The tiny village is home to just a handful of buildings, but its picturesque setting and world-famous lighthouse make it a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Visitors can expect to find a small café, gift shop, and museum near the parking lot, as well as several scenic hiking trails that wind their way around the cove. Of course, the highlight of any visit to Peggy’s Cove is the chance to see the iconic lighthouse up close. Standing on a rocky outcropping at the edge of the cove, it has been a sign of welcome for sailors returning home for centuries. Today, it remains an enduring symbol of Nova Scotias’ maritime heritage.

Coffee & Adventure Stops 

Be sure to stop along the way during your Atlantic road trip. When driving from Peggy’s Cove to Lunenberg be sure to stop in Tantallon. This small town has quaint shops, restaurants, cafes, and even the “Train Station Bike and Bean.” Here you can dine in, take out, or rent a bike and head out for a scenic cruise! Such a great way to intimately explore the region. 

Lunenberg 

view of the town of lunenberg from the water on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

Lunenberg is a small town located on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Founded in 1753, Lunenberg is known for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance. The town is one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will be welcomed by a mix of 18th and 19th-century buildings as they wander through winding streets, visit the Fisheries Museum, or take a scenic boat tour. There are also a number of hiking trails in the area, which offer stunning views of the Atlantic Coast. 

Hidden Gems Tour Lunenburg

With a rich history, Lunenberg’s story is best told by those who live there. This two-hour sightseeing/storytelling tour with take you around magnificent seascapes, and treasured working fishing villages. You’ll have a lot of opportunities to stop along the way, enjoying many picture-perfect locations. This small group tour only accommodates 8 guests, allowing for an intimate experience and a great way to connect with the locals and see the hidden gems and behind-the-scenes stories. “This tour is a must-do if you want to experience firsthand what the locals already know.” 

Click here to book your Hidden Gems Tour in Lunenburg!

Lunenberg is also home to Canada’s most famous sailing ship, the Bluenose. I can say, after being on the deck of this incredible tall ship that it is a really neat experience and I’d recommend checking their schedule to see if you can see it when it’s in port in Lunenberg, or even head out for a sail on board. Don’t fret if it’s not in the harbour, check their schedule and see if you can catch up with it in another place on your Nova Scotia RV road trip.

person crossing the street in downtown liverpool nova scotia

Liverpool, Nova Scotia is a small town with a big heart. Nestled on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Liverpool is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly people, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities in and around town, from exploring the local history to taking a hike in one of the nearby forests. There’s also no shortage of great places to eat and drink, with many local restaurants and bars serving up fresh seafood and traditional Maritime cuisine. 

Best RV Campground in Liverpool

Fisherman’s cove rv – open may 15 – october 31 .

fisherman's cove rv park in nova scotia

Location, Location, Location! Perched only a four-minute walk from Hunts Point Beach, this little campground is the perfect place to pull in and settle for the night. Located in Queens County, you’ll find lots to do once you’ve parked the RV, from strolling over to the beach at sunset, to dining on fresh local seafood, taking in an evening hike, or just settling down at your campsite. Sit back and relax after your first big day on the road at Fisherman’s Cove RV. Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy season. Click here to learn more about adding this accommodation spot to your Nova Scotia RV road trip.

205 KM/127 MI – Approx. 1 hour 37 minutes 

This scenic day will have you loving your Nova Scotia RV road trip through and through. Before leaving Liverpool, head out to Fort Point Lighthouse Park (head there for sunrise if you’re really keen!). The drive between Liverpool to Yarmouth along Highway 103 is one of the most scenic in the province. You’ll wind your way along the coast, taking in picturesque views of the ocean as you go. Some recommended places to stop include Sable River, East Jordan, Shelburne, Barrington, Shag Harbour, Tucket, and Wedgeport. The journey will take you through quaint fishing villages and rolling hills, giving you a taste of the true Nova Scotian spirit. 

Yarmouth Nova Scotia

woman looking at a lighthouse in yarmouth on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

Yarmouth, Nova Scotia is a historic seaport town located on the Southwestern tip of the province. The town is home to a number of historical sites and cultural attractions, as well as beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the town’s history at the Yarmouth County Museum and Archives, or take a stroll through the scenic Victorian gardens at the Yarmouth Town Clock. My favourite “must-see” spot is the Cape Forchu Lighthouse (and fun IG-worthy roadside stops along the way). If you’re looking for an adventurous activity, there are plenty of options for whale watching, fishing, and kayaking in the area. And of course, no visit to Yarmouth would be complete without enjoying some of the local seafood. Head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town for a delicious lobster dinner served seaside.

Best RV Campground in Yarmouth

Castle lake campground.

They say adventure begins at Castle Lake Campground, and with 250 campsites nestled right on the lake, I can see why. With fully serviced sites for your RV, you can set up and then head out exploring the beautiful property. From kayaking on the lake to fishing, to staying up late at night to do some stargazing, Castle Lake Campground offers you a fabulous glamping experience in Yarmouth. Book ahead to secure your spot.

131 KM/81 MI – Approx. 1 hour 26 minutes 

woman coming up the stairs of a historic site in nova scotia

Continuing along the Evangeline Trail towards Annapolis Royal today will welcome you to a mix of East Coast nature and introduce you to history that dates back centuries. 

Your first stop should be Mavillette Beach Provincial park. This 2 km expanse of sand and dunes is a great place to explore. Be sure to stop at the park’s interpretative panels, bird watching platforms, or take part in a guided tour. If time allows stop at Saint Alphonse, home to I’Eglise St. Alphonse, a charming Acadian church. 

Smugglers Cove Provincial Park and Meteghan are also beautiful points of interest to stop on your road trip. 

If you love seafood then a stop at Digby is required! Home to one of North America’s largest scallop fleets, Digby is home to the world-famous Digby scallop! 

Finally, make your way to Annapolis Royal, a small town located in Nova Scotia, Canada. The town is situated on the Annapolis Basin, which is an inlet of the Bay of Fundy. The town is also home to Fort Anne National Historic Site . Fort Anne is a must-see for any history buff or fan of Canadiana. The fort has a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of European settlement in North America. Visitors can explore the fort’s well-preserved grounds and learn about its many notable moments, including its role in the French and Indian War and the War of 1812. The fort also played a significant role in the Acadian Expulsion, making it an essential site for those interested in this dark chapter of Canadian history. 

Once you’re done visiting Fort Anne you can explore a variety of shops and restaurants in town and either choose your restaurant for dinner or pick up something to take back to your campground. 

Whale Cove Campground – CanaDream Partner Site 

This 4-star oceanside campground has all the amenities you and the family will need for your stay. On-site you’ll find facilities including washrooms, laundry, playground, library, pool table, games, and puzzles. Neighbouring your campground you’ll find a boat launch, Nautical Seafoods Market and Cafe, you can walk the bottom of the ocean at low tide (30 feet/10 meters below tide), head out hiking on Delap’s Cove Hiking Trail or head over to Hampton Beach Lighthouse and wharf. If you’re a CanaDream client book through your website portal to secure 10% off. 

Dunromin Campground

Located right next to the seaside town of Annapolis Royal, this 4-star waterfront campground sits on the shores of the Frenchman’s Basin. There the water flows into the mighty Bay of Fundy which has the highest tides in the world. With premium waterfront RV sites to choose from including open, shaded, and wooded sites, you can enjoy the east coast breeze or get out on the water right from your campground. 

78 KM/48 MI – Approx. 45 minutes 

man presenting at a parks canada dark sky interpretive program in nova scotia

This short drive to Kejimkujik National Park is perfect as it’ll give you the whole day to explore one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic National Parks. I was fortunate to spend three days on-site, kayaking, canoeing, biking and hiking around this beautiful park. 

pictographs in kejimkujik national park in nova scotia

One of the most special experiences was a private guided experience to see the pictographs . This experience is only available with a private guide so be sure to sign up for this if you’re interested.  Be sure to also take time to explore their different accommodation options including Ôasis, cabins, and oTENTiks! Check out the full list of what to do at Kejimkujik National Park here . 

How to book an RV site at Kejimkukik National Park 

stream surrounded by lots of green foliage, a small waterfall is in the background

Bring your RV and choose a cozy campground for the night! Reservations are recommended ahead of your arrival as this is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Reservations typically open in February for that calendar year and if you’re needing a specific date be sure to book as soon as reservations open . 

254 KM/158 MI – Approx. 3 hours  

church at grand pre national historic site, a stop on our Nova Scotia RV road trip

Hit the road and head up to the epicentre of Acadian culture at Grand-Pré National Historic Site. I’ll be honest, as a Westcoaster, I had never learned about Acadian Culture and was embarrassed about the lack of knowledge I had about this integral part of Canada’s history. “Sitting on the edge of my wooden seat, gripping onto my headphones, sweat started to fill my body as a tear rolled down my face. The tragedy that is the history of the Grand-Pré was hard to fathom. 450 men tricked into a meeting, then to be pulled from their families and their land, possibly never to be reunited again.” Click to learn more about why you should visit Grand-Pré National Historic Site here . 

two people walking on the sidewalk in downtown truro nova scotia

Truro is known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia” through its central location, and historic downtown vibes. The town is a great place to base yourself and then head out to explore the famous tidal swings in the Bay of Fundy, at the Truro Tidal Bore Viewing Visitor Centre. Inland you’ll find a vibrant historic downtown district with unique shops and dining options. Inglis Street is a point of interest not to be missed as it showcases specialty boutiques and landmark stores like Nova Scotia Emporium and Stanfield’s Factory Outlet. 

If your schedule allows head over to Victoria Park, a 3000-acre park inviting visitors to explore the old-growth forest filled with eastern hemlock trees, a dramatic steep-sided gorge, waterfalls, and a challenging 175-foot climb up to the top of Jacobs ladder. If you’re looking for more of a scenic oceanside trail check out the Cobequid trail, an 18km network of cycling and hiking trails travelling through Acadian farmlands and dykelands. 

Best Campground in Truro 

Scotia Pine Campground, with the slogan, “There’s good times at the pines,” their amenities prove that they are here to provide guests with a wonderful experience. Guests will enjoy a pool, playground, and weekend events including live music! Their amenities include clean washrooms and laundry, which when being a few days into your trip you might want to restock on (also allowing you to pack less stuff!). To learn more and book your adventure visit their website .

344 KM/214 MI – Approx. 4 hours 25 minutes

a person kayaking in Cape Chignecto on nova scotia rv road trip

Cape Chignecto & Economy 

Today will bring another one for the memory books as you travel along the Fundy Shore and witness the power of mother nature as the highest tides swing in and out twice a day. View landscapes that have to be seen to be believed and “walk on the bottom of the ocean” in Economy. There you can take photos, do some clam digging, build rock houses, and go bass fishing. 

woman walking down the street of parrsboro on a nova scotia rv road trip

The next stop on your Atlantic road trip is Parrsboro, the largest community in the area. Rock lovers, this is the place for you where you can visit the Minas Basin and look for zeolites and other semi-precious stones including agate and amethyst right on the beaches! 

Cape Chignecto

Your day will continue in Cape Chignecto but with so many adventures to explore you’ll have to prioritize what you want to do in the day as there are more options than time will allow. 

Visit, the site of Nova Scotia’s largest provincial park, with a hiking trail that circumnavigates the cape along rugged cliffs rising high above the Bay of Fundy. From Amherst, take Highway 6 towards Pugwash and Tatamagouche. Here the Northumberland Shore follows 450 km (280 mi) of shoreline along the Northumberland Strait with over thirty fine sand beaches which offer an irresistible invitation.

Kayaking Day Tour 

If time allows, one of the greatest ways to see and experience the region would be a kayaking tour with Three Sisters Kayaking. You will paddle from Spicer’s Cove into Cape Chignecto Provincial Park. There you can see the towering cliffs of Cape Chignecto from the water level. From keyholes to archways, and sea stacks you’ll have the best view, including the famous three sisters! 

Lunch is included with the tour (with vegetarian options) which may be a great fit since this is such a busy and action-packed day. This tour is also great for families as two-person kayaks are available. 

Click here to book your Three Sisters Sea Kayaking Day Tour!

two people and their dog sitting in green chairs overlooking the ocean in pictou nova scotia

Your day will wind down in beautiful Pictou, NS. Situated on the Northumberland Straight, this bright colourful oceanside town will welcome you with open arms. After your long day of adventure, you can settle into one of the local restaurants and enjoy a lovely meal before winding down in your RV for the day. 

Best Campground in Pictou

Harbour lights campground.

Fourth Generation owners will welcome your family to the campground, where they were raised and continue to raise their families today. The campground is open from May 15 – October 15 and offers fully serviced sites for your RV. With a private beach, swimming pool, and all the comfort amenities (power, dump, washrooms) you’ll have a great experience hanging out with locals and making new friends at Harbour Lights Campground. 

264 KM/164 MI – Approx. 3 hours 

fishing boats lined up at the dock at cape breton island on our nova scotia rv road trip

Today may be one of the most exciting days of your Nova Scotia RV road trip as you’ll be entering Cape Breton Island, a unique experience that stands on many people’s bucket lists. Take your time on the drive and soak in the magic that is the Cape Breton experience, stopping for photos and soaking in all the scenery along the way. 

Your tour will take you through Scottish-inspired towns including New Glasgow and Tracadie before crossing the Canso Canal Bridge which is considered to be the official divider welcoming you into Cape Breton Island. Continue on East, taking your time as you follow the coastline through Port Hood, Mabou, Inverness and Dunvegan. 

A great place to stop for lunch is Mabou Provincial Park, allowing for some wonderful photo opportunities overlooking the Mabou Valley. We enjoyed stopping at small bays and fishing villages to do some beach combing with the kids, and shop with local artisans when we came across some small towns. Another recommended place to stop is Inverness Beach, which is on the Gulf Of Saint Lawrence. Broad Cove Banks is to the south of Inverness which also allows you to see Inverness from a distance giving you a beautiful viewing spot.  

Finally make your way to Cheticamp, where you’ll want to give yourself ample time to soak in the Acadian culture. This bustling fishing village is thriving with Acadian culture and you’ll hear these sounds and sights in the restaurants and shops, and when meeting the locals. Cheticamp is well-known for rug hooking and other fine crafts, so be sure to check out the local shops for this unique art. 

Cheticamp National Park

musicians-playing-cape-breton-highlands-national-park

If you are planning in advance, or in the off-season I’d highly recommend booking a stay at the Cheticamp National Park. This Parks Canada site offers guests an incredible experience, through not only its beautiful facilities but their on-site interpretative programming, providing you with an opportunity to learn about the culture, environment, and animals that make this place so special. Whether you’re travelling with kids or just a kid at heart there are a lot of amazing programs from kids’ theatre, to Acadian music, to wide games, geocaching, and animal educational programs, Parks Canada does an incredible job welcoming guests and creating a memorable experience. 

The park also offers a variety of campsites, suitable to your needs and amenities include showers, toilets, kitchen shelters, wood stoves, fire pits, and a playground. There is direct access to 4 of the parks 26 hiking trails and you’re only a short drive down to Cheticamp town and nearby beaches. 

Hyclass Ocean Campground – CanaDream Partner Site 

If you’re looking for a campground with direct water access this is it. With kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding available from your site, Hyclass Ocean Campground . Owners Valerie and Dave grew up in Nova Scotia and now welcome you to their beloved campground with the East Coast charm that never gets old. From fully serviced sites to tents and cabins, you can choose your camping style in this great oceanside campground. 

Linwood Harbour Campground – CanaDream Partner Site 

Located 10 minutes from Cape Breton Island, the Linwood Harbour Campground overlooks the scenic Linwood Harbour. This is a great place to start your Cabot Trail adventure! With 36 overnight sites, free wifi, extra large pull-throughs, power hook-ups, laundry, fire pits, and a playground and outdoor games for the kids, this is a great place to camp and launch your next days’ adventures. 

261 KM/162 MI – Approx. 4 hours 

view of the cabot trail roadway on our nova scotia rv road trip

Explore the world-famous Cabot Trail, known as one of the most spectacular drives in North America. Whether you’re there in peak summer season or soaking in the colours of the fall , the Cabot Trail is truly extraordinary and you’re going to love the scenic views and incredible experience. There are lots of places to stop along the way including Pleasant Bay, which is a working fishing village that also is the location of the Pleasant Bay Whale Interpretive Centre. 

MUST DO – Hike The Skyline Trail

view from the skyline trail on the cabot trail

If you’re mobile and able, you have to experience one of Canada’s most famous hikes. It’s not that often that I ever say “MUST DO” but this is an exception, and for good reason. The skyline trail in Cape Breton is one of the most unique and breathtaking hiking trails in all of Nova Scotia. The trail winds its way along through the forest out to a scenic ledge, offering dramatic views of the coast and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also see an abundance of wildlife, including moose (practice safe animal practices and keep your distance, it’s alarming how big these animals are and they need to be respected and viewed from a distance). So be sure to add this to your Atlantic RV road trip plans, you will not be disappointed!

Can you drive an RV on the Cabot Trail?

The Cabot Trail is one of the most scenic drives in Canada, and driving an RV is a great way to experience it. In celebration of Canada’s 150th, we did a big East Coast Roadtrip and one of the highlights was driving the Cabot Trail .  The trail winds its way through the picturesque Cape Breton Highlands, offering dramatic views of the coastline and countless opportunities to explore. There are plenty of campgrounds located along the route, so you can easily find a place to stay for the night. And because the trail is looped, you can start and finish your journey in the same spot (if you’re looking for a shorter version of this itinerary).

Best Campgrounds in Baddeck 

Baddeck cabot trail campground – canadream partner .

Baddeck Nova Scotia has a ton of incredible places to visit and the Baddeck Cabot Trail Campground is centrally located, allowing you to visit as many as time will allow on your trip. You can plan to check out the Village of Baddeck, the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, and The Gaelic College, all from your campground. 

While camping you can enjoy everything from a “campers lounge” to canoe and kayak rentals, a swimming pool, and all the comfort amenities you may need. Learn more about Baddeck Cabot Trail Campground by visiting their website . 

Bras D’or Lakes Campground – CanaDream Partner Site 

If you’re looking to be on the lake, camp at Baddeck’s only lakefront campground, the Bras D’or Lakes Campground. Located on the UNESCO-designated biosphere, and the closest campground to the village of Baddeck, this smaller campground is all about location, location, location! To learn more and see photos visit their website . 

Learn from my mistake, and give yourself more time in Baddeck than you planned. This great little town is not to be rushed! 

Baddeck is a beautiful town with lots to see and explore. Take a leisurely stroll on the boardwalks and government wharf with wonderful photo opportunities, including the lighthouse, eagles and sailboats, or browse the various arts and craft shops around the village. Enjoy a day at the beach on Kidston Island, a short ferry ride away or hike to the scenic Uisige Ban Falls. 

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Did you know that Baddeck is the place where Alexander Graham Bell, the famous inventor of the telephone, was from? Be sure to visit the national historic site named after him to get a glimpse into this world-famous inventor genius’s life and understand how his work helped shape the world we live in (if you’re reading this on a “phone” imagine what he’d be thinking if he were alive today!). At the site, you’ll get to see beyond the phone and see inspiration from his inventions including airplanes and kites, to deaf education and artificial respiration. “Feel his legacy come to life as you explore remarkable artifacts, photos and full-scale replicas that mark his masterful career as an engineer, inventor, scientist and humanitarian.” From the rooftop gardens, you can see the retreat “Beinn Bhreagh” Gaelic for “beautiful mountain”. The whole family will enjoy this stop on your Nova Scotia RV road trip.

116 KM/72MI – Approx. 1 hr 23 minutes minutes 

people dressed in period clothing at the fortress of louisbourg national historic site

Today’s short drive will have you heading back on Highway 105 to South Haven before travelling east on Bras D’Or Lakes drive through to Sydney. One of our favourite places was the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site located 40 minutes past Sydney. This is where we spent Canada’s 150th anniversary on Canada Day 2017! I had the opportunity to ignite one of the cannons and my husband shot a musket, and you can too! Just sign up for the special experiences upon arrival. 

Best Campsite in Louisbourg 

Pecks cottages and riverdale rv park.

Louisbourg’s best (and only) RV park is definitely Peck’s Cottages and Riverdale RV Park. Located minutes from the Fortress and the Beggars dinner, this campground is a perfect place to lay your head after a big day of immersed historical experiences and escapades. With a kind staff, a great location, full hookups, and all the amenities you need be sure to book ahead to secure this excellent RV campsite.  

277 KM/172 MI – Approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes

woman in the drivers seat of an RV ready to go on a nova scotia rv road trip

From Louisbourg, you’ll travel west along the shores of the Bras d’Or Lake as you start to make your way back towards your starting point of Halifax. Along the way stop in St. Peter’s, known as “The Gateway to the Bras d’Or Lake.” There you’ll find a full-service community located on a narrow strip of land that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Bras d’Or Lake. Be sure to allocate time to visit St. Peter’s Canal National Historic Site.  

The majority of your day will be travelling back to the mainland through Antigonish, then inward to Sherbrook before you settle into camp for the night. 

Best Campground in Sherbrooke 

Nimrod’s campground.

With 60 sites spread out over 2 levels, you can choose to have a lake view experience with pull-through or back-in access. Or you can head to the upper level and enjoy a more secluded and wooded experience. These spacious sites will have you settling in quickly and easily before you tuck in for the night. If you’re travelling with a crew, caravans and group campers are welcome! 

182 KM/113 MI – Approx. 2 hours and 25 minutes

This is your final day and we’ve got an action-packed itinerary for you to experience everything the Eastern Shore and the Eastern Passage Region have to offer. We’d recommend an early start so you can get most of your driving done in the morning and soak in the scenic seaside views while you make your way west toward Halifax. 

Lawrencetown Beach 

sunset view of lawrencetown beach on a nova scotia rv road trip

The perfect place to stop for lunch is one of Nova Scotia’s most famous beaches. Lawrencetown Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the Nova Scotia coastline. Visitors can swim, surf, paddleboard, and windsurf in the beautiful Atlantic waters. The sand dunes are perfect for a nature hike, and picnicking is allowed in specified areas. 

Lawrencetown Surf Shop 

inside view of the lawrencetown surf co. shop in nova scotia

My daughter nominated the Lawrencetown Surf Co. “The Coolest Surf Shop in Nova Scotia” and I can’t argue with you there. So if you’re into surfing or have kids that would love a cool stop on their way, pull your RV into their big parking lot and check out this amazing local shop while on your Nova Scotia RV road trip. Here’s an article we wrote that shows you more about this great little locally-owned shop . 

Rainbow Haven Beach 

woman walking along the boardwalk of rainbow haven beach in nova scotia

Located in between the Surf Shop and Cow Bay is Rainbow Haven Park, a stunning secluded beach and a network of trails waiting for you to explore. You could spend a whole day here swimming, sunbathing, picnicking and hiking through the long grasslands. While Lawrencetown beach is well known and quite popular, Rainbow Haven is a little less known (still popular) but definitely worth the visit. 

Fisherman’s Cove 

shops lining the boardwalk in fishermans cove

This colourful row of fishing houses along the boardwalk welcome you to shop and stroll your way through some of the best collection of artisans’ work in Nova Scotia. A 200-year-old fishing village on the edge of Halifax, you’ll be able to look out over the city all while shopping or dining on some incredible seafood. Bring your camera as you’ll want to take lots of photos of this mecca of art and history! Be sure to check out our experience at Fisherman’s Cove on our Nova Scotia RV road trip.

Dartmouth – Views over Halifax

four people sitting at a patio of a restaurant overlooking downtown halifax

The Alderney Landing Ferry terminal is great to pull the RV in for one last stop before you make your way to your campground for the night. There you can check out skyline views of Halifax and stroll Ferry Terminal Park and Peace Pavillion. After you’ve taken in the outdoors head inside and grab whatever essentials you need for making your last dinner. From fresh seafood to bakery, to vegetables and fruits you can get what you need easily inside this wonderful market. 

Best Park RV in Dartmouth 

Shubie park campground .

Located only 12 minutes from Alderney Landing, this is the closest RV park to Halifax, allowing you to be centrally located and get anywhere you need to go, quickly! This big open campground has all the amenities you want including a playground, tennis court, and laundry combined with the luxuries you need like power and sewer hookups. If you’re wanting to go out for one more night on the town, you could leave your RV at the campground and Uber/ferry into Halifax quite easily, making your last Nova Scotia memories before you head home. 

Nova Scotia RV Campgrounds 

Rv sites in nova scotia .

canadream rental rv parked at a campsite on a nova scotia rv road trip

You’ll note that throughout this article I’ve featured some of my recommended places to stay. If you are booking with CanaDream you’ll see that I noted their partners in the itinerary, because CanaDream clients get preferred booking rates and discounts at these sites. 

If you have the capacity to book ahead I would, and be sure to include as many National Parks in your itinerary as I love the interpretative programming that is available for visitors at our national parks. Sites typically have reservations open in January / February so be sure to check in and plan your reservation strategy so that you can secure the spots you want. 

Nova Scotia RV Road Trip Tips, Questions, and Answers: 

  • Sunscreen 
  • Tripod 
  • Camera Backpack
  • Binoculars (so you can get an up-close view of wildlife while keeping a safe distance!)

halifax to cabot trail tour

This really depends on what you want to experience. I’ve been in spring, summer, and fall and each offered a completely different experience for me to enjoy. The spring was warm and since it was off-season didn’t have many crowds, plus offers savings because it’s not peak season, so that’s a big win for me. 

The summer was EPIC, there’s nothing like camping under the stars in Cape Breton National Park! The warm weather and the fun summer adventures make it easy to see why so many people prefer a summer road trip to Nova Scotia. 

Fall was spectacular and my next trip will be driving down the Cabot Trail, winding our way through the fall foliage while looking out over the Atlantic Sea. 

And while I’ve never done a winter road trip, I’m sure there are a lot of incredible benefits to touring the region in the off-season! Email me if you want me to do more research on this season for you. 

halifax to cabot trail tour

Nova Scotia has a lifetime’s worth of adventures to explore, but if you’re looking for “must-see” experiences I’d have to say my top four Nova Scotia RV road trip adventures include: 

  • Halifax – My new favourite city! 
  • Cabot Trail in Cape Breton National Park 
  • Annapolis Royal 
  • Peggy’s Cove Region 

Check out these Articles for More Nova Scotia Travel Inspiration!

halifax to cabot trail tour

Things to do in Bedford Nova Scotia

halifax to cabot trail tour

6 RV Rentals in Nova Scotia

halifax to cabot trail tour

Eastern Passage Nova Scotia

halifax to cabot trail tour

Bedford Basin Farmers Market

  • family road trip
  • family vacation
  • halifax nova scotia
  • nova scotia canada
  • nova scotia rv road trip
  • rv road trip

Jami Savage

Embrace the Canadian Winter with the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Weekend Camper

24 Unique Experiences to Give Mom for Mother’s Day Gifts in Vancouver | Fun and Experiential

23 Incredible Indigenous Cultural Experiences To Have In Canada in 2024

23 Exciting Adventures & Activities To Do in Ottawa in November in 2024

Is Blogging Worth It? How To Start a Blog and Make Money In 2024

The Best Location to Host a Family Reunion in BC: A Comprehensive Guide

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Full Time Travel Writer, Mom who is passionate about empowering and educating travelers on how you can use your own tourism dollars as a catalyst for positive change worldwide. Click here to learn more about us, our family, and how we lead an adventure filled life!

spot_img

Quebec City Bike Rental – A 2024 Adventure Guide to Biking in The Historic City

Things To Do In Quebec City In The Winter: 2024 Adventure Guide

Jazamango in Todos Santos

The Biggest Badass Adventure Boutique Store I’ve ever seen!

Willingdon Beach Trail

COMMENTS

  1. From Halifax to the Cabot Trail: A 3-day Nova Scotia road trip

    Launch your trip with a full day of discovery and dining in Halifax, where maritime history meets modern amenities and attractions. in Travel & Leisure 's 2018 World's Best Awards. Spend a day exploring the Cabot Trail loop, sampling classic Cape Breton hospitality along the way.

  2. Cabot Trail Tour & More

    The Cabot Trail Discovery Tour explores Nova Scotia's most iconic road trip. From the rugged coastlines and majestic mountains to the charming small fishing villages, this tour provides breathtaking viewpoints, endless photo opportunities, and local culinary experiences. We follow the coastline as we climb and descend mountains and traverse ...

  3. Cabot Discovery Tours

    Shared and private small group tours of Cape Breton and step-on guide services. Daily tours of the Cabot Trail from Baddeck and multi-day tours from Halifax. Immerse yourself in an active tour of Cape Breton Island or for the Celtic Colours annual music festival. Custom tours available by request.

  4. Nova Scotia: Cabot Trail Full-Day Small-Group Tour 2024

    Get up close and personal with some of Nova Scotia's most dramatic coastal scenery: this full-day driving tour along the Cabot Trail makes the region accessible. Depart in the morning from Baddeck via air-conditioned vehicle, and set off with just a small group for company. You'll discover the highlights of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, will thread your way along mountains and ...

  5. The Ultimate Cabot Trail Itinerary: Cape Breton Road Trip

    The Cabot Trail is a scenic driving route on the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia and considered one of the most beautiful road trips in North America. Cape Breton is the large island in the northeast of Nova Scotia, home to 18% of the province's land and 14% of the population. Cape Breton is known for being a slow-paced and beautiful ...

  6. A Perfect Cabot Trail Itinerary in Cape Breton Nova Scotia

    Cape Breton/Cabot Trail One Week Itinerary. If you've got a week to explore, here's a sample Halifax to Cape Breton road trip itinerary: Day 1: Leave Halifax for Inverness, stay overnight in Inverness. Day 2: Explore Inverness in the morning, Depart for Cheticamp in the afternoon (1 hr drive), stay overnight.

  7. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

    Cabot Trail Tours and Tickets. 198 reviews. Cabot Trail comprises 185 miles (298 kilometers) of cliff-edge roadway weaving around the northern half of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island. It offers epic views of the whale-inhabited waters of the Atlantic and Gulf of St. Lawrence, and access to quaint towns and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

  8. Ultimate Cabot Trail Guide (+23 Epic Things to Do) / Cabot Trail Tour

    An insider's leadership to explorer Newborn Scotia's Cabot Pathway see a local - items to do, places to stay, expert tips, and more. An insider's guide to exploring Novo Scotia's Cabot Trail like a regional - things to do, where the stay, proficient topic, and more.

  9. Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail Tour

    Maximize time in port in Nova Scotia with a small-group sightseeing tour along the Cabot Trail. Get picked up at the cruise pavilion and set out on one of the region's best road trips for a full-day tour. See charming fishing villages, scenic mountains, and rugged coastlines during the excursion, complete with many stops for photo opportunities.

  10. The Best Way to Travel the Cabot Trail

    You've asked... so WE'VE asked our Travel Counsellors at each of the six Nova Scotia Visitor Information Centres and our Contact Centre what their recommendations are to experience the best of Cape Breton Island's famous Cabot Trail. We've compiled their suggestions below to help you plan your trip around the Cabot Trail.

  11. Cabot Trail Discovery Tour

    Cabot Trail Discovery Tour price starts from $130.86. Discover and book Cabot Trail Discovery Tour on Tripadvisor. ... We enjoyed Sydney much more than Halifax (which seemed a bit tired and less well-kept of a community). Read more. Written September 12, 2022. daberge. 0 contributions. Relaxing and Friendly Super-Small Group Tour.

  12. Explore the Cabot Trail

    Experience the natural beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands as you drive the famous Cabot Trail. This 298 km (186 mi) highway weaves through The Cape Breton Highlands National Park, rewarding travellers with spectacular valley and coastal views all along the way. Looking for more ways to explore? Hike and camp within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, play a round of golf at Highlands ...

  13. Home

    A Discovery Tour of the World-famous Cabot Trail Duration: 6 - 8 hours Your journey around the Cabot Trail will delight and amaze you. A new discovery awaits around almost every turn - some of the most spectacular scenery you have ever witnessed, colourful artisan shops and studios, encounters with wildlife, and much more.

  14. Driving Tips for the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island

    The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. Many visitors to Cape Breton Island set aside an entire day—or several days—to see the Cabot Trail's sights. ... Tour buses and RVs move very slowly on the grades. Passing lanes are few ...

  15. The Cabot Trail: A Nova Scotia Bicycle Tour

    Leaders will collect you in Halifax on the first morning of our Cabot Trail bicycle tour. From here we will transfer to Baddeck, a lovely village on the lake. We enjoy a short warm-up ride before a welcome reception to begin our week. Cycling Options: 14 or 24 miles; Meals: Lunch & Dinner; Lodging: First of 2 Nights at The Inverary Resort

  16. Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024)

    Start and end in Halifax! With the Explorer tour Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024), you have a 11 days tour package taking you through Halifax, Canada and 8 other destinations in Canada. Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024) includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport.

  17. Halifax to Cabot Trail

    Rome2Rio makes travelling from Halifax to Cabot Trail easy. Rome2Rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Find all the transport options for your trip from Halifax to Cabot Trail right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated ...

  18. From Halifax to the Cabot Trail: A 3-day Nova Scotia road trip

    Launch your trip with a full day of discovery, dining and all the best things to do in Halifax, where maritime history meets modern amenities and attractions. in Travel & Leisure 's 2020 World's Best Awards. Spend a day exploring the Cabot Trail loop, sampling classic Cape Breton hospitality along the way.

  19. Self Drive Holiday in Nova Scotia

    Little wonder that a road-trip around this rugged province will be as much about the sea as the land. Our ten day fly drive holiday covers many of Nova Scotia's highlights. You'll visit the maritime city of Halifax, explore the UNESCO site at Lunenberg, relax at the Trout Point Lodge and follow a stretch of the world-famous Cabot Trail.

  20. Go Beyond the Cabot Trail: Discover Cape Breton's wonders with hiking

    After checking out of our hotel, we will travel to the west side of Cape Breton Island to Route 19, "The Musical Coast". This morning, you will explore the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail by e-bike, travelling toward the village of Mabou (26 km easy to moderate bike ride) and enjoy traditional Celtic music over a lunch showcasing local cuisine and flavors. After checking in to our ...

  21. Road Trip Nova Scotia: Cape Breton, Cabot Trail, and More

    A little bonus tip as you head south and leave Cape Breton Island is to drive the 'Mini-Cabot Trail'. It's essentially a short detour from the main road, heading north on the #337 from Antigonish, before picking up the #245. The scenery was great, and you can stop and admire the views at Cape George Lighthouse.

  22. Cabot Trail Cape Breton Nova Scotia Accommodations cabot trail guided

    Many visitors to Cape Breton set aside an entire day - or two, three or four days - to see the sights along the Cabot Trail. Because there are so many scenic overlooks, cultural heritage sites, whale watching hiking trails and guided tours on the Cabot Trail, spending some time planning your excursion and accommodations will make your road ...

  23. Nova Scotia RV Road Trip 2024

    The Cabot Trail is one of the most scenic drives in Canada, and driving an RV is a great way to experience it. In celebration of Canada's 150th, we did a big East Coast Roadtrip and one of the highlights was driving the Cabot Trail. The trail winds its way through the picturesque Cape Breton Highlands, offering dramatic views of the coastline ...