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Cabot Trail

Rising from the sea and clinging to mountains, the 298-kilometre-long Cabot Trail is a winding mix of roadway, paths, stairs and stunning beauty that takes you from unreal ocean vistas to quaint fishing villages.

Plan several days to experience the journey of a lifetime along one of the world’s most scenic drives—you’ll need it.

Feel the Rhythm of our Island

If you’ve got a few days, we have a few hundred things to see and do. Fresh local seafood. Ancient coastlines. Land-loving activities and seafaring adventures—all waiting to be discovered.

  • Hiking

    Meander through old growth forest stands. Hug highland mountaintops. Discover hidden waterfalls and claim secluded beaches. The path less traveled? We have a few dozen of those.

  • Places to Stay

    Across the Island’s varied landscapes and stunning seascapes, you’ll find a home away from home nestled somewhere between seaside cottages and mountainside retreats.

  • Places to Eat

    A culinary capital of our own right. World-class shellfish, netted right off the shores of the North Atlantic. Sustainably farmed and locally grown ingredients with big flavor.

  • Cape Breton Highlands National Park

    Majestic plateaus. Lush boreal, Acadian, and Taiga forests. Deeply-cut river glens. Endless ocean views. Heaven is a place on earth, and it’s The Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Illustrated map of Cape Breton Island that shows the Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail makes a 185-mile (298-kilometer) loop around a sizeable chunk of the island, passing through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park at its northernmost point.

The Cabot Trail loops in either direction, starting from Baddeck or the Trans Canada Highway, this will give you time for some stops. It is best to have at least 5-7 days to enjoy all of what the Cabot Trail has to offer.

One of Canada’s Most Scenic Drives!

Wind your way along our coast, on one of the world’s most famous drives. Carved by waves and coloured in colours. One journey around the Cabot Trail may not be enough!