Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island: 9 Places to See on the
Experience the Cabot Trail, one of the world's most scenic drives along Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. This renowned coastal route winds through dramatic landscapes, dense forests, and rugged cliffs alongside the Atlantic Ocean.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Cape Breton Island & Cabot Trail
- End
- Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
- Stops
- 9
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Cape Breton Island & Cabot Trail — A scenic 298-kilometer loop drive showcasing dramatic coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, and Highland landscapes in Nova Scotia's most visited destination.
- Skyline Trail — Popular 40-minute hiking trail offering panoramic views from windswept cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the most photographed viewpoint on the Cabot Trail.
- Egypt Falls — Scenic waterfall hidden in a lush forest setting with moss-covered rock formations. A moderate hiking destination offering enchanting views reminiscent of Scottish highlands.
- Glenora Distillery — Canada's first single-malt whisky distillery, producing award-winning spirits while offering tastings and tours in a picturesque Highland setting.
- Inverness Beach — Expansive beach with ultra-soft sand, clear warm shallow water, and a 1.5-kilometer boardwalk. One of the best beaches in Cape Breton for finding sea glass.
- Tartans and Treasures — Specialty shop along the Cabot Trail where visitors can discover and purchase tartan products representing Scottish family surnames and heritage.
- So Inclined Shop — A local retail establishment featuring handcrafted goods, regional products, and artisan merchandise reflecting Cape Breton's cultural heritage.
- Niels Harbor — Tiny fishing village with approximately 300 residents, featuring a small beach and a picturesque lighthouse that now operates as an ice cream shop.
- Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site — Museum dedicated to the inventor's life and innovations, housed in a replica of his summer estate overlooking Bras d'Or Lake.
Useful for your trip
- Timing
- Plan for 3 days to explore Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail properly.
- Tip
- Skyline Trail hike takes 40 minutes and offers panoramic views from windswept cliffs; this is the most photographed spot on the Cabot Trail.
- Tip
- Egypt Falls features a waterfall with moss-covered rock formations accessible by hiking into a lush forest.
- Where to stay
- Glenora Distillery offers private cabin accommodations on-site with a restaurant and pub, making it a unique stay option.
- Tip
- Visit Inverness Beach for sea glass hunting; it features a 1.5 kilometer boardwalk with ultra-soft sand and shallow, clear water.
- Tip
- Stop at Tartans and Treasures shop to find your family surname tartan if you have Scottish or Irish roots.
- Tip
- So Inclined Shop sells handmade hats created by owner Barbara Hand; visit this quirky local shop.
- Tip
- Niels Harbor is a tiny fishing village (300 residents) with a beach and lighthouse that now houses an ice cream shop.
- Tip
- Lakey's Head is a pull-off spot with massive reddish boulders and a walkway; it's a good location for whale watching from shore.
- Tip
- Visit Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck to see artifacts from the inventor's family estate.
- Food
- Enjoy fresh local seafood including lobster, oysters, and mussels at restaurants throughout Cape Breton.
- Transport
- The Cabot Trail is a winding road with perfectly maintained twisting roads; drive carefully to enjoy the scenic coastal views.
Video on this route
Exploring the World-Famous Cabot Trail & Cape Breton Island: a Travel Guide