Cape Breton Island has been named the Number 1 Island in North America by both Condé Nast Traveler and Travel and Leisure magazine and it’s not hard to see why. 

Take a comprehensive self drive tour of Cape Breton to explore the stunning Cabot Trail, a 300 kilometre loop that winds through glorious landscapes, along the Margaree River, a Canadian Heritage Salmon River, and through spectacular rugged highlands of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada. Visit remote fishing villages with intriguing histories, ranging from the Acadian Region to Irish and Scottish settlements. These vibrant communities are gateways to outdoor adventures and unique cultural festivals at any time of year.

Day 1 - Halifax

Arrive 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 3 nights

Day 4 - Halifax to Baddeck drive 354 kms – 3 hours 34 mins

Stroll along the beautiful Bras d’Or Lakes to watch the sailboats and yachts before heading down to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum to learn about this famous historian. Sample gift shops, including the Blue Heron and The Water’s Edge Gallery, and discover a wide variety of Cape Breton and Maritime goods Perhaps head down for a sail on the schooner Amoeba, and take in the village from a new perspective. Work up an appetite on the local trails before heading to McCurdy’s Restaurant at the Silver Dart Lodge for seafood with a touch of Scotland as you’re entertained with nightly performances. Visit Rocking Horse Ranch, where you can enjoy the fabulous sunset from the saddle.

Overnight Baddeck 2 nights

Day 6 - Baddeck to Cheticamp drive – 88kms 1 hour 11 minutes.

On your way to  Cheticamp drive via the Margaree Valley.  Visit the Margaree Salmon Museum — the history of salmon fishing in the area is over 100 years old, and the Margaree is a world-famous salmon river. Stop by the Margaree Fish Hatchery, the second oldest salmon hatchery in North America. Perhaps take part in a quilting workshop and learn to make colourful quilts or drop into the Cape Breton Clay pottery centre.  

Continue on to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can join a guided nature tour or take to the hiking trails that wind through some of the oldest forests in the province. Perhaps cool down with a dip in the ocean at Petit Etang Beach or embark on a whale watching tour. Admire the architectural splendour at l'Église St. Pierre (St Peter's Church) Acadian Museum before digging in to a true Acadian dish at Le Gabriel Restaurant. Take time to visit the bustling fishing town Pleasant Bay where you can check out the fascination Pleasant Bay Whale Interpretive Centre or just enjoy a stroll around the harbour. 

Overnight Cheticamp 2 nights 

Drive to the top of Cape Breton and stay at Bay St Lawrence. Spend a day exploring the northern tip of Cape Breton Island with its indented coastline and bays such as Meat Cove. Make sure you allow time to go walking in the beautiful Cape Breton Highlands National Park to look for wildlife there.  A ride on the Atlantic Gondola will take you to the summit of Destination Cape Smokey, where you will find expansive views of the Cape Breton Highland National Park, Atlantic Ocean, and Ingonish. Perhaps hike to Beulach Ban Falls, one of nature’s most mystical gems.

Overnight St Lawrence 1 night

The Ingonish area is a destination for all seasons. Be inspired by the breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery whether bathed in sunshine or covered in snow. In the summer, spend days along the sandy shores of Ingonish Beach that offers both saltwater and freshwater swimming. Challenge yourself in the oceans waves in a kayak or unwind under a canopy of trees. The area is known as a golfers paradise, as golfers from around the world flock to the famed Highlands Links, which is considered by many to be Canada’s finest course.

Overnight Ingonish 3 nights

Browse in the shops of skilled crafters — watch them create treasures in clay, pewter, wood, fibre, glass, or leather. Shop for Cape Breton quilts, fine art, even an antique. Hike or snowshoe a local trail, or one of the rocky shores. Stand atop the rolling hills and enjoy the views. Maybe bring along a fishing rod and cast a line into the many rivers or lakes, or try your luck in the ocean at Jersey Cove or take a boat trip to Bird Islands. In the evening take part in a traditional music ceilidh or attend an evening concert of Cape Breton's music. 

Overnight St Ann’s Bay 1 night

Sherbrooke is a picturesque village on the banks of the St Mary’s River. Hire a canoe or kayak and watch for beaver, mink, muskrats and deer as you paddle along the river. Take a trip back in time at Sherbrooke Historical Village, the largest museum in Nova Scotia, where you can experience life in the 1800s.

After exploring Sherbrooke continue onto Liscomb Lodge Resort for 1 night. The drive is a further 40 minutes – 53 kms.

Take a leisurely drive back to Halifax Stanfield International Airport, ready for your onward journey.