Are you planning a trip to Cape Breton and looking for the perfect 3-day itinerary? Look no further! After two separate trips exploring Cape Breton Island, I have compiled my favorite stops along the way to create an unforgettable road trip experience. From stunning landscapes to delicious dining options and exhilarating hikes, this Cape Breton 3 day itinerary post will guide you through the best the island has to offer.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a golfer, or simply seeking adventure, Cape Breton has something for everyone. With its iconic Cabot Trail route and picturesque vistas, this itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful spots in Nova Scotia.
Not only will we cover the must-visit attractions and scenic viewpoints along the Cabot Trail, but we’ll also delve into where to eat and where to sleep during your stay. After all, a road trip isn’t just about the sights; it’s about immersing yourself in local culture and indulging in culinary delights.
If you’re up for outdoor exploration, we’ll highlight the best hikes showcasing Cape Breton’s rugged beauty. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for breathtaking vistas and memorable adventures.
So whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of what Cape Breton has to offer, join me as we embark on an unforgettable 3-day road trip filled with natural wonders, delicious cuisine, and invigorating hikes. Let’s make your visit to Cape Breton an experience that will leave lasting memories for years to come.
Is 3 Days Too Much Time for a Cape Breton Road Trip?
Before diving into this Cape Breton 3 day itinerary, let’s talk about how much time you should set aside to explore.
Ahead of my first trip, the Cabot Trail and Cape Breton had long been on my Canadian road trip bucket list. As my East Coast trip grew near, my excitement ballooned as I was finally going to tick this trip off. However, my blog’s friends, family, and readers quickly deflated this excitement. “Three days is a lot of time for Cape Breton,” was a common reply to me eagerly sharing the details of my trip.
This left me a bit concerned. Was I spending too much of my East Coast trip exploring Cape Breton Island? This island, after all, is not that big, and the Cabot Trail can be done in a day, as one of my readers pointed out. To me, and from the photos of Cape Breton I had viewed online, seeing it in a day would be a disservice.
This turned out to be true as we were rushed, and I would have liked to spend a little more time in certain spots. Plus, as I found on my second Cape Breton trip, the weather can vary wildly. As such, I suggest planning for 5 days around Cape Breton. This will allow for some buffer time in case you hit bad weather as well as the option for some downtime.
Can You Do the Cabot Trail in One Day?
For those wondering if you can do the Cabot Trail in one day, technically, it is possible, as the entire loop can be completed within a day if you’re solely focusing on driving without many stops. However, to truly experience and appreciate the stunning scenery, various viewpoints, hiking trails, cultural attractions, and local cuisine along the Cabot Trail, it’s generally recommended to take at least two to three days.
This allows for ample time to explore the key spots, embark on hikes, enjoy local delicacies, and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and culture of the area. If you’re short on time, a one-day drive might provide a brief glimpse, but consider allocating more time to savor the trail’s beauty.
Cape Breton 3 Day Itinerary
With my disclaimer of including a buffer day or two on your Cape Breton road trip out of the way, let’s dive into the essentials of what to see, do, eat, and drink along the way. I have broken down each day by segments but also included suggestions where you can spend an extra day or two to truly experience what the east-coast has to offer.
Day 1 – Halifax to Baddeck
After three days of checking out the highlights of Halifax, we made our way north. The first thing that caught me by surprise on Cape Breton Island is that it is, indeed, an island. Looking at a map, this doesn’t immediately jump out at you, so I always assumed it was just an odd label like calling a close family friend Aunt or calling Donald Trump president. Nope. With the narrow Strait of Canso dividing Cape Breton from the mainland, it is indeed an island. More surprisingly, there was no road to the island until 1955. That is when the 2 km long Canso Causeway was built.
Stop at Big Spruce Brewing
Our first stop on this Cape Breton 3 day itinerary is a fantastic craft brewery. Tipped off by Tidehouse Brewing in Halifax, we made a pit stop at Big Spruce, a certified organic brewery like no other. There, you will find unfiltered and unpasteurized beer made fresh from locally grown hops on their farm. If this wasn’t clear in the description, it was obvious in their tasting room. Alongside live local music was a group of workers drinking beer and picking through a bush of hops. Upon the first sip, I was sold on Big Spruce beer. Then I saw their tasting room, which sold me on exploring Cape Breton.
Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum
Warm sunshine plus live East Coast music led to a few more pints, which ate into our time in Baddeck, the former summer home to one Alexander Graham Bell. The famed inventor of the telephone spent many summers in Baddeck and much of his final days inventing and experimenting in the area. This included the first flight in Canada under the British Empire on the frozen Bras d’Or Lake.
This and so much more can be explored at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. We could have easily spent a couple of hours exploring this amazing museum. However, we had to cram as much in as possible before closing. My loss is forever your gain.
Eat at Baddeck Lobster Suppers
Our day of unpasteurized beer and Canadian history worked up an appetite. Thankfully, Baddeck is home to one of the best seafood feasts you will ever have. Simply named Baddeck Lobster Suppers, this Cape Breton favorite serves local lobsters with unlimited muscles. It was by far my favorite meal experience while exploring Cape Breton. Tuck in, and don’t forget the bib.
Stay in Ingonish
For your first night on Cape Breton Island, I suggest staying in Ingonish. This small town is at the gates of the Highlands National Park and minutes from several great activities, including whale watching tours, the Highland Links golf course, the Highlands National Park Discovery Center, and Ingonish Beach.
If you are stretching your Cape Breton 3 day itinerary to 4 or 5 days, Ingonish also makes a great spot to set up camp, both figuratively and literally. Ingonish Beach has campsites for rent for those looking to make the most of their time exploring Cape Breton.
I stayed at the Skyline Cabins on my first night on the Cabot Trail and can recommend their basic but comfortable cabins. They are equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay and are affordable.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Keltic Lodge, which is a fantastic resort in about as picture-perfect of a location as it gets. It is also a part of the Highland Links golf course and is the optimal spot for those looking to play this historic course.
READ MORE: My review of VIA Rail’s Ocean between Halifax and Montreal!
Day 2 – Getting on (and off) the Cabot Trail
The second day of this Cape Breton 3-day itinerary begins with the main event, the Cabot Trail. This 298 km loop takes you through old-growth forests, past sandy beaches, and along oceanside cliffs with jaw-dropping vistas. It’s consistently named one of the best drives in North America and is full of history, trailheads, and postcard photo ops.
Alternatively, if the weather is clear, taking a cable car ride at Mount Smokey is a great way to get a birdseye view of the region!
Get off the Cabot Trail
Although incredibly scenic at points, my favorite parts of the Cabot Trail came when we actually got off it. Our first detour took us to White Point for a short hike. This offered baron scenery, which illustrates the harsh conditions locals face. This was brought home with a monument to the unknown sailor at the end of the trail.
The drive to White Point is spectacular and lets you hug the coastal road on your way back to the Cabot Trail. This was only briefly as we left the trail once again to make our way to the most northern point on Cape Breton, Meat Cove. This rugged fishing village is located at the end of an 8 km dirt road and offers superior views along the way, in my experience, than those found on the Cabot Trail. This detour made the trip and was highlighted by a short 4×4 descent to the rocky beach full of inukshuks.
There are some intriguing cabins for rent in Meat Cove, and it would be a great spot to spend a couple of days relaxing.
Heading south from Meat Cove is where our luck with the weather ran out. While passing through the Cape Bretons Highlands National Park, we were met with thick fog, I could not see the car in front of me. What did I say about buffer days?
Hike to Macintosh Falls
This short hike is great for stretching your legs with a small waterfall as your reward. If you are driving the Cabot Trail in an EV, there are chargers at the trailhead that you can use for free.
If the weather is clear, I suggest hiking the Skyline Trail on your second day. If not, proceed to Cheticamp. Stop at the scenic pullouts to take in the views along the way.
READ MORE: Halifax Highlights in just 3 DaysEat at L’Abri Café, Restaurant et Bar
The L’Abri Café, Restaurant et Bar in Cheticamp is a fantastic gem along the Cabot Trail. This small restaurant has a great atmosphere and has ocean-view tables. I had their chowder and shrimp roll and can recommend them. I can also recommend reservations as the spot is very popular. And don’t forget a Cabot Trail liquor to cap off your night!
Stay in Cheticamp
Staying in Cheticamp offers an authentic and immersive experience while exploring Cape Breton Island. Positioned at the western entrance of the iconic Cabot Trail, Cheticamp boasts a vibrant Acadian culture, picturesque coastal views, and a gateway to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The town is renowned for its rich heritage, reflected in its music, art, and culinary traditions.
Visitors have the opportunity to indulge in delectable seafood dishes, witness traditional Acadian folk music performances, and explore local artisan shops. Beyond its cultural allure, Cheticamp serves as an ideal base for adventurers seeking outdoor activities. From hiking the Skyline Trail and fishing along the coast to whale-watching tours and exploring the park’s rugged terrain, Cheticamp offers convenient access to an array of captivating experiences within the Cape Breton Highlands.
Choosing Cheticamp as a hub during a 3-day Cape Breton itinerary allows travelers to soak in the region’s cultural charm and natural splendor.
On my EV road trip around the Cabot Trail, I stayed at Laurie’s Inn because it has a free charger for guest use. That said, the hotel was pretty mediocre. The rooms were very basic and dated. The included breakfast was much of the same.
On my previous trip, we stayed at the Ocean View Motel & Chalets which were also very basic but had the added benefit of being on the water which was great.
Parks Canada has a campground in Cheticamp, so it is another great option for anyone camping their way around Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail.
Day 3 –Chéticamp to Mabou
If the weather doesn’t cooperate as it did on both my trips, spend the next morning retracing some of the Cabot Trail’s prettiest parts and make your way back north to capture some of the scenery lost in the previous day’s grey.
This includes a stretch of the Cabot Trail that is easily the most scenic. When you see postcards from Cape Breton, chances are you’ll see shots from this stretch of the Cabot Trail.
Hike the Skyline Trail
If you only do one hike on your Cape Breton 3 day itinerary, make it the Skyline trail.
What I was most excited about on my time exploring Cape Breton was hiking the famous Skyline Trail. This 7 km looping trail takes visitors along an amazing boardwalk that straddles the coastal mountains and gives some of the best views in all of the Highlands National Park.
While reading up on the hike en route that morning, Erin came across the tragic news that a hiker was attacked and killed by a coyote not too long ago. This did not sit well with her. At the mouth of the trail, I started to explain that the attack was rare. Just as the words “they are more scared of you than you are of them” left my mouth, a grouse flew inches from my face, sending me backward in a high-pitched squeal. “The coyotes have evolved and can fly!” We died in laughter.
With coyote concerns squashed, we were able to enjoy our day and the subsequent views. This place lives up to the hype and was indeed a highlight of my time exploring the Cabot Trail. We sat for some time enjoying the sweeping views and spotted several whales breaching in the distance as a reward.
Golf Cape Breton’s Best Course
If you love golf, a Cape Breton road trip should include a round at Canada’s premier golfing experiences at Cabot Links.
As one of the country’s finest courses, Cabot Links stands as a pinnacle in the world of golf, offering an unparalleled blend of challenging play and awe-inspiring vistas along the stunning coastline. A part of the Cabot Cape Breton resort, this course ranks among Canada’s best courses and is a testament to its meticulously designed layout, where holes offer a unique and mesmerizing view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast seeking top-tier courses or a traveler eager to witness Canada’s golfing marvels, Cabot Links is an essential stop that promises an unforgettable golfing adventure amidst Cape Breton’s natural splendor.
This was another bucket list stop for me, and despite donating all of my golf balls, I will remember it fondly for the rest of my life. To celebrate the amazing round, I stopped at Route 19 Brewing for a beer and chowder, then continued on.`
Cabot Links is part of a full-service golfing destination with fantastic accommodations and onsite dining. I recommend spending a few days here playing a couple of courses and fully taking it all in. That said, this resort is extremely popular. It is recommended to book a year in advance.
Stop for a Tasting at the Glenora Distillery
With those bucket list items ticked off, we continued south and, sadly, off the Cabot Trail, this time for good. We stopped for a pick-me-up at Downstreet Coffee in Inverness, a surprisingly hip coffee shop in a not-so-hip area, as well as at the beautiful Glenora Distillery for a quick sample.
The Glenora Distillery stands as a captivating gem nestled within the scenic landscapes of Cape Breton Island, making it an absolute must on a 3-day itinerary. As North America’s first single malt whisky distillery, Glenora offers a unique and enriching experience for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Situated amidst the lush hills and rolling pastures of Mabou, this distillery embodies tradition and craftsmanship, producing award-winning whiskies that reflect the essence of the region.
A visit to Glenora Distillery offers an insightful tour through the whisky-making process, showcasing the artistry and dedication behind each batch. Visitors can indulge in guided tastings, exploring a variety of whisky flavors while admiring the breathtaking vistas surrounding the distillery. Beyond the whisky experience, the distillery’s charming accommodations and on-site restaurant provide an inviting space to unwind, relish local cuisine, and soak in the serene ambiance of Cape Breton’s countryside. Including a visit to Glenora Distillery on a 3-day Cape Breton itinerary promises an immersive journey into the island’s rich whisky heritage and an opportunity to savor its finest spirits amid picturesque surroundings.
I recommend spending the night if you want to indulge in more than just a sampling. The Glenora Distillery has highly-rated accommodations and makes for a great place to rest for a night or two.
Eat (and Dance) at the Red Shoe Pub
Eating at the Red Shoe Pub in Nova Scotia promises more than just a meal; it’s an invitation into a lively Celtic music-filled atmosphere combined with delightful culinary experiences. Nestled in the picturesque village of Mabou on Cape Breton Island, this Rankin family-run pub exudes warmth and hospitality, offering traditional Scottish and Maritime dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
The pub, famous for its live music sessions featuring talented local musicians, provides an authentic cultural experience alongside its delicious fare. Visitors can relish hearty seafood chowder, savory fish and chips, or savor succulent local lobster, all while tapping their feet to the vibrant Celtic tunes. Dining at the Red Shoe Pub is not merely about the food; it’s a chance to immerse oneself in the region’s heritage and revel in the vibrant spirit of Cape Breton’s music and cuisine.
Mabou is also home to many accommodation options, so if you feel like enjoying a night of east-coast music, then pair it with the warm hospitality at one of the friendly bed and breakfast options.
Stop at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre
If you didn’t get enough of the culture at the Red Shoe Pub or are interested in the history behind the music of the island, a stop at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre is a must before departing the island.
The Celtic Music Interpretive Centre, nestled in the heart of Cape Breton Island, is a cultural gem that celebrates the rich heritage of Celtic music in Nova Scotia, Canada. Located in the village of Judique, this center serves as a vibrant hub for preserving, promoting, and sharing the traditions of Celtic music. Set against the picturesque landscape, the center offers an immersive experience, showcasing the musical legacy through live performances, workshops, exhibitions, and educational programs.
Visitors can delve into the history, rhythms, and melodies of Celtic music, learning about its roots and the influence it has had on Cape Breton’s cultural tapestry. With its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to fostering appreciation for Celtic musical heritage, the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre stands as a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience in Judique, Cape Breton.
Cape Breton 3 Day Itinerary – Buffer Days May Vary
At the end of my three days of road-tripping around Cape Breton, I was scratching my head. How could anyone think this was too much time? If anything, I could’ve used another day to squeeze in another hike or another round of golf.
This realization led me to believe that those I talked to before my trip did not do Cape Breton right, which is why I wrote this Cape Breton 3 day itinerary with plenty of room to grow.
From my experience exploring Cape Breton, you need to get off the Cabot Trail, eat and drink locally, dance, and relax. After all (and to my surprise), you’re on island time. There is no need to rush, so tacking on a couple of buffer days to rest, play, and just experience more is highly recommended.
What say you?
Thoughts on this Cape Breton 3 Day Itinerary?
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Although my time compiling this 3 day Cape Breton road trip was in partnership with Nova Scotia Tourism,
the experience, opinions, and fear of grouse are my own.
Enjoyed your trip on Cape Breton. I have been there many times and spent more than three days. I camp at Cheticamp and Broad Cove. You missed the wonderful seafood restaurant at Neil’s Harbor or another in Pleasant Bay. There is also a wonderful bakery (boulangerie) off the main road in Cheticamp that I visit every time I am there. Cape Breton is extremely beautiful, but to me reflects all the beauty of Nova Scotia.
Thanks, and good recommendations! I did stop at the bakery and will be sure to add to the list!
What an extremely excellent post you got here. I really want to express my gratitude for this post as it contains a lot of information that has been very helpful. keep up the good work.
I’ve never heard of Cape Breton before, but it looks gorgeous! Amazing pictures. Shame about missing the live music, but there’s nothing better than leaving a reason to return!
I.T looks like I.T was a phenomenal trip! I loved the rocky beaches
Cape Breton is on my list too, and I would never dream of doing it in a single day! I’ve bookmarked your post.
Love to dine in this place. Shaun. Dreamed to be there. Awesome!