About the Island / Locals Know Blog / Outdoor & Adventure

Northern Cape Breton

No trip to Cape Breton Island can be complete without a visit to an often unseen part of the Island, an area just off the Cabot Trail, Northern Cape Breton. This region includes beautiful communities like Cape North, Bay St Lawrence, Capstick and Meat Cove. This rugged and mountainous landscape features some of the best hiking trails, incredible vistas and great opportunities for whale watching!

Coastal Adventures

Northern Cape Breton Island boasts a coastline that is as varied as it is spectacular. From towering cliffs to hidden coves, adventurers can kayak through crystal-clear waters or embark on thrilling boat tours to discover secluded beaches and dramatic sea stacks. Companies like Cabot Trail Adventures, Northern Tip Charters and Oshan Whale Watch offer coastal adventure trips that provide both adventure and a chance to learn about the local marine ecosystem. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, exploring and enjoying the sandy shores of Cabot's Landing and Dingwall Beach will only guarantee that you're heart will never leave.

Hiking Trails

The verdant landscapes of Northern Cape Breton Island are crisscrossed with a network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual stroller, there's a trail waiting to be explored. This region is home to incredible trails like Tenerife (Theodore Fricker) Mountain, Wilkie-Sugarloaf Mountain, The Kauzmann Trail, Meat Cove Mountain, Lowland Cove, Money Point and Little Grassy. If you like to hike, this is where you need to visit! If you're visiting in the winter, you're in luck! Northern Cape Breton is home to the amazing  North Highlands Nordic Cross Country Ski Facility, where you can ski or snowshoe with incredible views of the North Mountain Range.

Dining Delights

After a day of exploration, Northern Cape Breton Island invites visitors to indulge in its culinary delights. Freshly caught seafood takes center stage on menus across the region, with lobster, scallops, and salmon tantalizing taste buds with their ocean-fresh flavors. The Markland Resort and Dining Room is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering amazing dishes featuring local seafood. For a cozy dining experience, Morrison's Restaurant in Cape North serves up delicious fare throughout the summer and fall. But what's better than pizza after climbing a mountain? Not much, that's for sure but what if it's pizza from a wood fired pizza oven! Check out South Harbour Pines for some of the best pizza on the Island and be sure to stock up on any provisions you may need from luxury teas, coffee and treats. If you venture up to Meat Cove you'll be rewarded not only with stunning views but a chance to have an amazing lobster roll at the Lawless Lobster food truck. Dining in Northern Cape Breton Island is an experience to savour, with each meal reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Cape Breton Island.

About the Author

Team Destination Cape Breton

Our team at Destination Cape Breton is always exploring our beautiful Island. We love discovering our hidden gems, working with partners, and putting our Island on the pedestal it deserves!

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