About the Island / Locals Know Blog / Food & Drink
Cape Mabou Highlands & Clove Hitch Bistro
The Cape Mabou Highlands should be on everybody’s list. It’s not your typical tourist route and the trail offers dramatic vistas over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You can get your heart pumping or take a leisurely stroll through remnants of Acadian old-growth forest (i.e. maple, beech trees with high canopy and ground covered by ferns). And all of this without the crowds of the National Park close by.

There are over 12 different trail segments varying in length from 300m to 6.4km and when you start adding them end to end you can easily spend a day or two exploring this part of the island.
GPS Coordinates: 46° 8.556’N, 61° 26.959’W
Pro Tip– The Cape Mabou Trail club sells maps at the local store and you might be able to purchase them through the mail if you contact them.

Recommended Restaurant: Clove Hitch Bistro – 8790 Nova Scotia Trunk 19, Port Hood (10 min drive)
Upscale style bistro with a beautiful view of the water. It’s good for casual dining or a special night out after hiking up an appetite all day.
Recommended Dish – Start with lobster wontons, and continue with a veggie and goat cheese wrap.
Pro Tip – Get the chowder as a side for any sandwich. You won’t regret it!


About the Author
Alicia Lake
Alicia Lake, lifelong Victoria County, Cape Breton resident, is a self-described local-food devotee. She holds an MBA in Community Economic Development plus degrees in Community Studies and Political Science, and has worked across the island’s food system. Alicia founded the Baddeck & Area Community Market and the 50% Local Food Club, and now leads the Pan Cape Breton Food Hub Co-op, Cape Breton’s online marketplace for local produce.
Related posts...

Winter Adventures Around the Chéticamp Area
Grab a pair of snowshoes and enjoy your latest winter adventure in Chéticamp along the Cabot Trail!

7 Days of Glamping on Cape Breton Island
Not interested in camping? Why not try glamping? Stay in a Mongolian Yurt or a luxury geometric dome, sleep out in the stars or watch the ocean from your cliffside accommodation.

Where to travel 2022: The best destinations to visit by CNN
Every year Cape Breton Island is included in 'Must See' or 'Must Travel To' lists and 2022 is no different.
Unlock the Island’s Best-Kept Secrets
Get seasonal itineraries, local tips, and member-only offers, straight from Cape Breton insiders to your inbox twice a month.
No spam, just wanderlust fuel. Free departure anytime.
* By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy