Cabot Trail

There is perhaps no cycling destination as well known as the Cabot Trail. Legendary among cyclists, this loop was named Bicycling Magazine’s must-see, and Cape Breton Island was named continental North America’s best island destination. Stunning coastlines, nesting eagles, rewarding climbs and incredible descents - this is a cyclists dream. Beginning and ending in Baddeck, this bed and breakfast tour takes in the entire Cabot Trail loop through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We've scheduled relatively short cycling days, allowing you lots of time to hike, explore, swim, or just relax along the way.

Day 1: Baddeck

Baddeck, located alongside the shores of Bras d'Or Lake, is our starting point for the tour. We'll meet for some sightseeing and a chance to get to know each other in the historic town. A delicious dinner will fill our stomaches before getting ready to cycle this epic route. For those traveling from New Brunswick or Halifax, transportation will be available to Baddeck.

Day 2: Baddeck to Cheticamp - 82 km

Our first day of cycling begins through the beautiful Margaree Valley. We'll have a few climbs and descents as we follow the route alongside nesting eagles and streams abundant in fish. We'll stop for a lakeside picnic lunch, and continue on to the coast. From here there are some small ups and downs as we follow the scenic coastline to Cheticamp, and our wonderful Bed & Breakfast for the night.

Day 3: Cheticamp to Aspy Bay - 85 km

A beautiful day of cycling, we'll start out by entering the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and continue on to our first real climb of the Cabot Trail. Reaching nearly 425 meters it will be a difficult climb, but also a great descent into Pleasant Bay for lunch. We'll take some time to enjoy some delicious, fresh seafood before starting our second climb, over North Mountain. Again, it's a steep one, but as you're flying down the other side, you'll have forgotten all about the climb. After passing by a number of craft and antique shops, we'll end our day at a beautiful historic inn, which was once a general store for the area. For those interested, kayaks area available for an evening paddle, or a great patio for those looking to relax.

Day 4: Aspy Bay to Wreck Cove - 78 km

After a delicious home cooked breakfast at our inn, we'll take in the scenic route past White Point - one of the most scenic and quiet stretches of the route. After rejoining the Cabot Trail we'll follow the coastline south, to Ingonish for lunch. Our last climb awaits, up over over Cape Smokey, before descending back down to the ocean. It's not far from here to our B&B for the night at Wreck Cove. To end the day, there's a great little swimming spot in a waterfall filled brook, right by our B&B, that makes for a perfect refreshing afternoon treat.

Day 5: Wreck Cove to Baddeck - 73 km

Our final day of cycling will bring you a few ups and downs as you follow the undulating coastal ride. The road heads inland, and the beauty remains. Before long, we'll reach the edge of the Bras d'Or Lake once again, to bring us back to Baddeck. We'll re-convene, and have transportation available back to Halifax available for those wanting it. We have no doubt that this will have been one of the best rides of your life...