Learn how your comment data is processed. This means that if you want to do a longer ride, you can simply turn around and head back out on the trail again. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. This blog post will explore some of the best parts of the trail and give you all the details you need to, Whether youre an experienced cyclist or a beginner, spending a few days pedaling around the, The Cabot Trail is a world-renowned cycling route that offers, What to Expect When Cycling the Cabot Trail, Assuming you are starting in Baddeck, you will first notice the lack of services. The leaves are changing their color, and the views are simply breathtaking. They certainly must have thought we were crazy for cycling the Cabot Trail! We were able to easily walk to the beach and enjoy the breeze coming off the ocean. 3. The complete hike takes about 1.5 hours on a maintained pathway, and leads you to a tall waterfall. There were only 5-10 km out of nearly 300 that reminded me of Montreal. Anyway, I made it!! It's a 4.6km path that takes you through a beautiful forest with glimpses of the Chticamp River. Services and amenities are not close by, meaning you'll definitely need a car to run your errands. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". 4. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Not long after reaching the towns of Margaree Harbor and Belle Cote, and turning up the coast, youll pass the unusual Scarecrow Theater, an outdoor display of 100 scarecrows representing public figures from Cape Bretons history. During these times, the weather is milder, and the crowds are thinner. There are no coffee shops and no places to get food or water. It is really cute and worth a look especially if the restaurant is still there and you need a little rest. They were quite impressed when I was able to speak with the waitress in french and get us a table even though there was a long line-up. World renowned for its beauty, the Cabot Trail is also the most popular multi-day cycling route in Canada. Cheticamp is the remote Acadian west main entrance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. DAY THREE : Margaree to Chetticamp: At Margaree Forks, take the side road to East Margaree to visit the Margaree Bicentennial Museum, with many artifacts from the area. Only 53 km (33 mi) and the route was not difficult with only a few hills. It does not store any personal data. They also have the Cabot Trail, a beautiful cycling route nearly 200 . It was a beautiful day with a clear blue sky and an easy bike ride to Ingonish. Stop 2: Wreck Cove General Store. The Clucking Hen restaurant is in North Shore. 60k of Vermont hills. Whether youre an experienced cyclist or a beginner, spending a few days pedaling around the Cabot Trail is an unforgettable experience. There is a short boardwalk on French Mountain that you might want to check. The North Coast section of the trail is more challenging, with longer climbs and rougher terrain. I had driven through the area many times but this was the first time on a bike. Once we arrived some went golfing and the others headed to Ingonish beach which was a short walk from our rooms. Our adventure called 'Cycling the Cabot Trail' started the next day as we headed from Baddeck to Margaree . The 290 kilometre (180 mile) bike tour between Banff and Jasper is considered to be one of the most impressive mountain rides in the world. Considered one of the top drives in North America, it should be considered more a destination than a drive for the variety of activities available around this 400-km (190-mile) loop. There are lots of people who are more talented and/or dedicated than me when it comes to taking pictures. The ride runs parallel to the Continental Divide, and can start in either Banff or Jasper, both of which are exceptionally scenic towns. If you're looking for a short trail with fewer people, check out La Chemin du Buttereau. Be prepared for a lot of climbing! The best time to cycle the Cabot Trail is in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. "200 Nature Hot Spots in Alberta" - Published June 2022. When packing for your trip, youll want to ensure you have all the essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. At mile 27, we are at the summit of MacKenzie Mountain (elevation 335 meters). The next day was our biggest day. Stop 6: Rusty Anchor Restaurant. We even stopped along the shores of Lake OLaw and our tour guides prepared us a lovely picnic. The Ultimate One Day Cabot Trail Itinerary. Click here to see the rest of the form and complete your submission. A not to be missed side trip is Cheticamp Island, where youll view a lonely lighthouse high on the bluffs. View pictures of this outpost of civilization. The Markham is on Aspy Bay and the view from our cottages was gorgeous. At Smelt Brook, stop in at the Sea Spray Cycle Centre. We probably could have biked all the way to Cheticamp on that first day but we weren't in a hurry so we spent the night in Margaree. This route is hilly to mountainous, and requires riders to be physically in shape. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. Do you have a great story about it? The cycling is definitely manageable by most cyclists in reasonable shape, but it does include some steep climbing sections. Make sure to stop and take some pictures! Fall is another great time to ride the Cabot Trail. Cycling The Cabot Trail: Nova Scotia's 185-Mile Gem " I t's rutting season for the moose." The ranger told us as we hovered over our bike seats, our loaded panniers seeking to unbalance us. Truth be toldpushing your bike up the side of a mountain is probably just as hard as being on your bike!! The Cabot Trail is considered to be one of the best places for a cycling tour in all of North America and on the 'must do' list of many a serious biker. Distance : 44 Miles. Ahh, Cape Breton. The Cabot Trail is a world-renowned cycling route that offers stunning scenery, challenging climbs, and a sense of adventure. car2go to YUL/Trudeau Airport Worth it? Just before reaching town, well stop in at the Alexander Graham Bell museum, a National Historic Site. Note that I did this trip solo, sleeping in motels/hotels/Airbnbs, as I prefer to go at my own pace and it was also cheaper than with the organized tours. Once over Kelly's Mountain, keep driving until you see a big red barn called The Red Barn. The Cabot Trail is lauded as one of the most scenic drives in North America, but scores of spandex-clad cyclists have caught on that it's best to enjoy this majesty of Mother Nature from the. A cycling tour of the world-famous Cabot Trail on Nova Scotias Cape Breton Island, I have traveled around the globe. It was another beautiful day and I enjoyed every minute. Dress for success. Borrowing from the lines of a classic Cape Breton barn, the Inn celebrates the regions First Nations, Gaelic and French heritage and the beauty of nature in an elegant setting along the Cabot Trail. Ill share my experience here in case it can help other people planning similar trips, especially given the relative scarcity of information I could find prior to my own trip. Cycling the Cabot Trail is one of the best outdoor adventures I have ever had in Nova Scotia. Select it and click on the button to choose it. Plus, theres nothing like cozy campfires and crisp mountain air after a long day of cycling. I then rode to Baddeck, my starting point for the Cabot Trail. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. Required fields are marked *. After riding north 5 miles, we pass the Visitor Center at the Cape Breton Highlands National Park entrance. There are few places to stop along the way, so ensure you have enough supplies to last the entire trip. And the waitress was very impressed that we were cycling the Cabot Trail. Then theres a 3 mile descent, with some very steep drops, an average 12% grade. Cycling Trail Ridge Road What to Expect as a pro or a beginner? It's clear that you already make great life choices, but I'm here to help you get the most out of your Cabot Trail adventure. And its uphill again, with a ride to the summit of North Mountain (elevation 445 m) at mile 38, about a 5 mile climb. That evening was my first meal at the Keltic Lodge. My biking buddies were by my side asking what to order. The Cabot Trail is lauded as one of the most scenic drives in North America, but scores of spandex-clad cyclists have caught on that it's best to enjoy this majesty of Mother Nature from the saddle, making the Cabot Trail one of Canada's most iconic multi-day bike rides. Start typing to see results or hit ESC to close, Sulphur Skyline Trail Hike, Jasper National Park, Coyote Buttes South An Alternative to the Wave, A Guide to 3 Perfect Days in the South Okanagan, Cottage Grove Covered Bridges Bike Tour, Oregon, Camping for Beginners What You Need to Know, What is ETIAS? Another true gravel grinder. Your email address will not be published. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. From there we have gentle riding the rest of the day. The exit to the Cabot Trail is right next to it. Entering your story is easy to do. There were several thousand more people than usual in Cheticamp. Please share it with us! We were there in time for lunch and I wanted to take my fellow cyclists for some authentic acadian food. Cycling the Cabot Trail.the challenge ahead! We turn west on the Cabot Trail, ride past Lake O Law, with rolling hills, following the Margaret River. We were all exhausted when we finally arrived at the Markham Resort in Dingwall for the night. Because it's a loop, you can in theory start anywhere. Cheticamp calls itself the Hooked rug capital of the world. The Cabot Trail is notoriously hilly, with some very steep sections. Here we begin a 6 mile moderate descent to Pleasant Bay on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. We begin to encounter the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands. Be prepared for hills. I flew from Montreal to Sydney on Aeroplan miles, with an almost 12 hour layover in Halifax on purpose. Bring plenty of food and water. I ended up drinking more than 6 liters of water and used two electrolyte maintenance powder pouches on that day. Then we take Rt. This is an incredible experience, so savor every moment and dont try to rush through it. The trail winds through glorious valleys and along an expansive coast as it traverses the Highlands. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. My buddieswere not disappointed with our meal. The Normaway knows what Cycling the Cabot Trail is like so they fed us very well. Distance: 41 miles. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. I admire these people but I don't think I could ever to do it! Ride the eastern coastline of the National Park, then explore the roads heading north to quaint fishing . I love cycling and I love camping..to be done separately! "And the Coyotes have been pretty scrawny lately." You can't miss it. From the stunning coastal views to the towering mountains, theres something for everyone to enjoy. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. My cycling colleagues were getting ahead of me because I was stopping to take so many pictures. Spring is your best bet if you want warmer weather and fewer crowds. It is 300 km (185mi) of breathtaking beauty. Oops I almost forgot, we stopped at Neil's Harbour for lunch. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. It really depends a lot on what youre looking for. We mostly maintain this altitude, with rolling Alpine terrain, and at 17 miles, we reach the summit of French Mountain (455 meters). Required fields are marked *. Our 2 guides even did some presentations with a special gift for each of us and how our uniqueness contributed to our trip. Take on the challenging Cabot Trail, a 300 km road carved into the edge of the jaw-dropping Cape Breton Highlands. Then we descend again, to the village of Cape North. We head back to St. Anns, through an area known as the Artisans Loop, where you might want to obtain souveniers from the ride. Not to disappoint.that evening we enjoyed a great meal of fresh crab at a local pub and grill. Cabot Trail - Mountainous, windy and sometimes foggy, this drive alternates between hugging the ocean and crossing the rugged Cape Breton Highlands. Get travel tips & outdoor inspiration by signing up for our monthly newsletter. The Cabot Trail is notoriously hilly, so ensure youre physically fit enough to tackle the challenge before setting out. While this is the Cape Breton ride of which many cyclists dream, rest assured that our support van will be there to assist with the hills, and provide plenty of refreshments, and water! The coast is famous for whales, porpoises, and seals. There really aren't any look-off spots along here. If you turn right you'll continue on the Cabot Trail and go toward the St. Ann's Loop. Between 250,000 and 300,000 people visit the National Park portion of the Cabot Trail every year mostly by car. Ideally, you'd want 2 to 3 days to explore this part of my island, but if you ' r e like many travellers, your time is limited and you have many other places you'd like to see; don't despair. 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. Any suggestions about where we can leave a bit of luggage for the week while we cycle? She handed us our park pass through the window of her booth, smiling. DAY SIX Ingonish to St. Anns After passing through the villages of Ingonish Ferry, Ingonish harbor, and Ingonish Beach, we begin a 3 mile ascent to the summit of Cape Smokey (elevation 366 meters), with a breath-taking view of the ocean and its coastlines. There are no coffee shops and no places to get food or water. There are 3 exits in total and there are two ways to do the Cabot Trail; counterclockwise or clockwise. While not the longest day of the tour in terms of distance, this was by far the toughest, with two big climbs and a temperature that felt like 35C in the shade according to The Weather Network except I was riding in full sun, on black pavement. You now have about 30 km (19mi) before you arrive in Baddeck. The ride runs parallel to the Continental Divide, and can start in either Banff or Jasper, both of which are exceptionally scenic towns. Featuring dramatic ocean views and highland scenery, the Cabot Trail has been described as one of the world's top bicycle rides. Any hotel, motels that are recommended or not recommended. We ride close to the Ocean, again with spectacular views. The last thing to know is that the Cabot Trail is a loop, so you will end up back where you started. Whether youre an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge or a beginner looking for a leisurely ride, the Cabot Trail has something to offer everyone. I like comfort especially after being on my bike all day! Your email address will not be published. So, whens the best time for you to cycle the Cabot Trail? A fresh air fiend's paradise, it is situated in Canada's Eastern province, Nova Scotia and its Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Distance: 45 miles. Cycling the Cabot Trail is not really complete until you get caught in the rain! Theres a 3 mile climb, and then a 3 mile descent to New Haven. Sydney to Whycocomagh, 60 miles. Next day, on to Ingonish to stay at the Keltic Lodge. My dream of Cycling the Cabot Trail had come true! Day 3 - Neil's Harbour to Chticamp ( 91 km, 1830 m of climbing) While not the longest day of the tour in terms of distance, this was by far the toughest, with two big climbs and a temperature that felt like 35C in the shade according to The Weather Network - except I was riding in full sun, on black pavement. A Guide To Biking The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. I seem to recall that their homemade pies were very good! Your email address will not be published. You'll see a fork in the road after cycling about 60km (37mi). Keltic Quay Bayfront Lodge & Cottages. Take your time and enjoy the ride! The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". On the plus side, theres almost always a stiff tailwind that will help you cycle up these mountains, and youll be sure to see eagles soaring! Named after the famous explorer John Cabot (an Italian, Giovanni Caboto, who sailed under an English flag), the Cabot Trail is one of the world's most beautiful bicycle routes. Whycocomagh to Margaree Forks, 43 miles. But if youre searching for stunning fall foliage and an unforgettable experience, then head out on the trail in autumn! Cycling the Cabot Trail is an amazing way to see everything this beautiful province offers. Getting ready to descend MacKenzie Mountain toward Pleasant Bay, View of Aspy Bay from the Markland Resort in Dingwall, Cape Breton, Partial view of the descent on Cape Smokey, Englishtown Ferry in St. Ann's Bay, Cape Breton. The Cabot Trail is a world-famous cycling route that winds its way through the stunning scenery of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. Sturdy 30km $45 10:00 AM 30 km 100 $45 The Cabot Trail offers 186 miles of winding roads and exhilarating scenery. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. The trees are starting to bud, and the flowers are in bloom. Frommers Guide says its .. the best resort location on Cape Breton Islandthe best evening meal at the top of the island.. The acadian village of Cheticamp is special. A true adventurer, Leigh prefers wilderness experiences, camping and glamping in unique locations, long hikes, multi-day bike rides and paddling trips where few people go. It was a sunny warm day and it was wonderful. Entering your story is easy to do. 6. Only 53 km (33 mi) and the route was not difficult with only a few hills. Honestly, I couldn't make it all the way so I had to push my bike. Stop 4: Middle Head Hiking Trail. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Photos by the author. It will be on your right! DAY TWO St. Anns to Margaree Valley. However, this section also offers more spectacular views of the ocean. The Cabot Trail is about 185 miles long and takes about three days to complete by bicycle. The trail can be divided into the North Coast and South Coast sections. I used the highway instead (bikes are allowed), and aside from the rumble strips that took most of the shoulder in climbs (two car lanes, narrower shoulder), everything went well. We leave the Cabot Trail, and follow the 15 mile Alternative Scenic Route which has very little vehicular traffic that affords spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean all the way to Neils Harbor, a very picturesque fishing village. It guides you through a section of the plateau to see rare flowers (pitcher plants, orchids) and fauna. For this itinerary, we will travel clockwise and take the third exit past Baddeck. White Point is one of the most beautiful fishing villages on the route. Tour de Slate, Middletown Springs, VT, August 6, 2022. This is a small place but there is a convenience store and a restaurant if you need more water or a snack. We met at the High Wheeler cafe for a great lunch and a great coffee. The coast is famous for whales, porpoises, and seals. If youre considering trying it, follow our tips and advice to make the most of your trip. This will be our jumping-off point to the Cabot Trail where we'll meet the group and our tour leader before checking out the harbor and exploring this quaint town. Once in Baddeck, I checked in at my hotel, took a shower, and then tried Baddeck Lobster Suppers, where I got lobster with all-you-can-eat mussels and seafood chowder + dessert for $45. For the next two days, youll will be encountering grades up to 15%. It was pouring rain by the time we arrived. Spend the night at the Normaway Inn. The day started with a strong headwind where I was going about 14 km/h for the first 20 km or so, but it got much better after that, after I got further from the sea. Along this route we visit a stunning coastal panorama, with mountains climbing right from the sea. Hope that helps. Thats the only restaurant in town, and the grocery store (co-op) closed an hour before (at 6 PM), so I got ice cream at the ice cream parlour, ate a few snacks, and figured Id go to the grocery store to get a decent breakfast the next day. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are her passion. touring bike from FrameWork Cycle & Fitness, Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, Searching Google Images for Cabot Trail, ISO 3166 country list: nicely formatted in CSV and SQL format, Converting USD to CAD: how to pay almost no currency conversion fees, Converting USD/CAD with Interactive Brokers: How-To, MailChimp vs Campaign Monitor: Email Marketing Software Comparison, Cabot Trail solo bicycle ride in 3 days (5 total including to/from Sydney), UA895 Wi-Fi Review Chicago to Hong Kong. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. I wanted to get to Baddeck early if possible in order to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, so I took fewer breaks and did my best time that day (17.1 km/h average including breaks, despite the slow start). Leigh McAdam is an award-winning photographer and three-time author. It was fancy but we were all relaxed and had a great time. You are now biking on a sand bar into St. Ann's Bay. I enjoyed the fresh night (12C on July 2nd) and slept well, in preparation for the toughest day of the tour. Stop 1: Charlene's Bayside Restaurant and Cafe. Reaching nearly 425 meters it will be a difficult climb, but also a great descent into Pleasant Bay for lunch. Great! The vibrant Acadian culture of this town includes a fiddling style all its own. We were climbing French Mountain, MacKenzie Mountain and North Mountain as we crossed over the plateau to the east side of the Cabot Trail and the Cape Breton Highlands Park. The next day we biked to Cheticamp (35 km/28 mi). The slightly cooler weather is a plus for those long climbs youll be enjoying! There were dozens of sailing boats in the bay and even in the rain it was quite beautiful. Do you have some pictures to add? The beautiful coastline meets the breathtaking highlands in ways that make you appreciate both to the fullest, while savouring the magnificence of the paved trail at the speed of your bicycle. We started by meeting in Baddeck. You have already exited the park but you are still on the Cabot Trail. The total distance is 179 miles. Cars were watching us as they drove by so I am sure they were wondering what we were sharing!! There were a lot more food options than I expected along the road one thing I realized is that not all of the stores/restaurants are listed (or easily found, anyway) on the internet, but they advertise with signs next to the road (XYZ Cafe, 5 km, for example). I felt the pressure! We stayed for the night at the Chanterelle Inn, overlooking the valley where the North River joins St. Anns Bay. The 300 km loop will take most people five to seven days to complete. Climb up through old growth forests before a thrilling descent down to the coastline. Just type!Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. I had a decent meal in Pleasant Bay, refilled my Cameback and water bottle, and went on to climb the MacKenzie mountain, which wasnt nearly as challenging as North Mountain (it was also a bit cooler at that point). Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Experience over 3500 feet of elevation gain with gorgeous overlooks, maple-bordered gravel roads, a grass trail, and with plenty of aid stations. Your email address will not be published. Google Maps cycling instructions tried to get me to go on a side road and then the Trans Canada Trail, but I backtracked after about 1 km of that as the trail was really bad, with water all over and huge potholes. If you can, lengthen your stay by a few days and stop to explore on foot. This charming resort village is often called the starting point of the Cabot Trail. The Margaree area is beautiful and the river is world-renowned for salmon fishing. Our first destination was the village of St. Anns, on the Cabot Trail. This is not a trip you want to do on a cheap or poorly maintained bike. We stayed again at the Chanterelle Inn, Your email address will not be published. Cycle the best of the Cabot Trail, Base yourself in comfort on the northern coast of the Cape Breton Island and bike the best routes in the Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail. As cyclists, we may well get the opportunity to photograph black bears, moose, and white tail dear. This is also the time when mosquitoes and black flies have disappeared. That said, here are a few pictures I took: Your email address will not be published. Option 2: Drive straight to Baddeck (the town considered the start of the Cabot Trail), and go on a hike at Usige Ban Provincial Park Falls (a 20 minute drive from Baddeck). Do you have some pictures to add? The area around #19 36785 Cabot Trail is highly car-dependent. Powered by Walk Score Each year about 250,000 people drive it, but cycling Canada's famous Cabot Trail is the bucket ride destination for bikers. I took possession of my touring bike from FrameWork Cycle & Fitness at $175 for the week, I figured it made sense to rent rather than carry my own bike on the plane, with the associated hassle and surcharges. The route is named after John Cabot, who explored the island in 1497. View at RideWithGPS. Traveling to Europe after 2021, A Complete Guide to Camping in Kananaskis, A Stay at Historic Reesor Ranch in Saskatchewan, A Guide to Visiting Liverpool, Nova Scotia, 2022 HikeBikeTravel Outdoor Lovers Holiday Gift Guide, Mountain Hardware PCT 70 L Backpack Review, 2022 Outdoor Lovers Spring Products Guide. Required fields are marked *. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I was with a tour group and we took 5 days to do the trip. Assuming you are starting in Baddeck, you will first notice the lack of services. We will ride a clockwise route in order to take advantage of the stiff tailwinds that will literally help lift us through the two toughest days of climbing. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The 290 kilometre (180 mile) bike tour between Banff and Jasper is considered to be one of the most impressive mountain rides in the world. As cyclists, we may well get the opportunity to photograph black bears, moose, and white tail dear. A hybrid or road bike can be used, preferably with plenty of gears. World renowned for its beauty, the Cabot Trail is also the most popular multi-day cycling route in Canada. It was exhilarating, it was challenging, it was scary and it was amazing. Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window). Guess what I had for supper that night..you got itlobster!! I made one small deviation to go through North Sydney and stopped at the Lobster Pound and Moore for lunch Im glad I did, since thats where I got my best seafood chowder of the trip, with great service and a generous portion. We arrived at the same time as the World Acadian Congress. Id also recommend contacting Cape Breton Tourism through this email [emailprotected]. Is it best to go counter-clockwise or clockwise? Distance: 30 miles. There is a great general store there called the Wreck Cove General Store. It is quite special. Be sure to inspect the world's largest fiddle, located on the waterfront. There were a lot of pretty views along the way, and I got to Chticamp a bit past 7 PM. 75 km (47 mi) over 3 mountains. Tonight we recommend the Auberget Doucet Inn and Restaurant. This area is very beautiful. There was also construction/road work on maybe 20-30 km, but eh, thats the price to pay for keeping the pavement nice. I loaded my bike (in the pouring rain) on the back of my car and headed to my parents place for the night. There is a boardwalk and stairs at the main viewpoint, where you get incredible views of the Cabot Trail. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Its a flat $15 rate to go to downtown from the airport, which is very reasonable given that its a 13 km ride. @Dolena I would assume youre going to stay somewhere one night maybe a B&B so Id ask your host. Our van support was great and we were all safe! After dropping the bike and showering+taking a nap, I went to explore the Sydney boardwalk and had a donair, then took it easy for the rest of the night since I was flying back to Montreal early the next day. You'll see a side of Cape Breton that isn't revealed until you walk away from the road. Our cycling group continued straight toward Jersey Cove (route 312) and the Englishtown Ferry. Reach it by travelling 470 Km (290 miles) north east from cosmopolitan Halifax. 1.0m members in the bicycling community. 13 votes, 12 comments. Called the beginning and the end of the 185-mile Cabot Trail loop, Baddeck is your perfect jumping-off point for this iconic Canadian drive. Click here to upload more images (optional). I was concerned about food options, so I had cookies, chocolate bars and chips on my bike, and had some of that around kilometer 20 to get an energy boost after a climb. And, if youre lucky, you might even get to see some wildlife! We stopped to snap some pictures at the Scarecrow Theatre. Two miles before reaching Englishtown, we take a 5 minute ferry ride (cyclists ride free, and the ferry leaves every 10 minutes.) Day 3: Cheticamp to Aspy Bay - 85 km. Smokey is steep so biking down it in the rain is not to be taken lightly! It is the greatest protected wilderness in Nova Scotia. We rejoin the Cabot Trail at Neils Harbor, another fishing village, with shops and services. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Dolar Blue: getting the best rate for Argentine Pesos (ARS). Our luggage was transported in a van so we only needed to carry our day packs. There are many different ways to cycle the Cabot Trail, so research the route that best suits your ability level and interests. Plan your route in advance. It's a mostly flat, 8.7km gravel loop. Make sure your bike is in good condition. For Sale: 00 Houghton Rd, Cabot, VT 05647 $169,000 MLS# 4931723 Mostly wooded parcel on quiet country road that abuts Route 2, providing convenience for potential owner. Most cyclists breeze around the Cabot Trail in 3-4 days but there are so many world-class hiking tracks on the Cabot Trail it almost seems criminal to pass them by. Invest in a good quality bike and have it serviced before hitting the trail. We stayed at the Normaway Inn. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. 2. Drivers were respectful and generally gave me plenty of room when passing, but having a helmet mirror would have made me feel better when I heard them coming. We were a happy bunch of cyclists!! I have seen the Canadian and American Rockies, the Andes, the Alps and the Highlands of Scotland, but for simple beauty Cape Breton outrivals them all Alexander Graham Bell. Those with little cycling fitness may find North Mountain a challenge (almost 500 metres to the highest point on the trail). The descent on Cape Smokey with the rain was a little scary but we made it. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. The rain finally caught up with us the next day as we headed down the coast toward Baddeck which is about 85km (53mi) from Ingonish. Right after Wreck Cove, there was a 250+ meter climb on Smokey Mountain some parts were challenging, but it wasnt too much of a problem in lower gear. 5. Wed like to do this on our own but not take an expensive tour. Restaurant Acadien was my choice! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Stop 7: Sunset Point. One of my best memories of this day is when a couple of us stopped at the top of one of the mountains to share tylenol for the pain that we were now feeling in our muscles You know, the little red ones that are easy to swallow. Whether youre an experienced cyclist or just getting started, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Cabot Trail adventure: 1. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. It took me over 4.5 hours to ride the 47 km to Pleasant Bay, and I stopped *many* times during the North Mountain climb that morning. Stop 3: Cape Smokey Picnic Park. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". It is the greatest protected wilderness in Nova Scotia. The boardwalk is called The Bog (hike#8 in the park). Once you reach the top of the trail, you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in all of Nova Scotia. This route crosses through some of the most stunning scenery in Canada, including the Cape Breton Highlands. Whether youre an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge or a beginner looking for a leisurely ride, the Cabot Trail has something to offer everyone. Very good, for the most part. Upon reaching Tarbotville, we turn south, returning to St. Anns on the Cabot Trail. Tonights stay is at the Keltic Lodge, perched on a narrow stretch between two bays. The Giant Fiddle in Sydney. This blog post will explore some of the best parts of the trail and give you all the details you need to plan your own cycling adventure. Every summer, hundreds of cyclists drive through the heart of Nova Scotia en route to Cabot Shores, an idyllic Cabot Trail cycling basecamp. But I didn't care I was having fun. Cape Breton Cycling Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia One of the the World's Best Adventures Facebook Route close to 300 km along the Cape Breton Highlands Both cyclists and motorcyclists will enjoy the dramatic ocean views and scenery to make this a trip to remember. Just past French Lake is the Bog Walk, an interpretive boardwalk trail that explains the highlands incredible beauty! The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Easy..the seafood chowder or crab dinner or lobster dinner. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Two wheels, or three, sometimes one, but never more than twenty. After considering doing it for a few years, I finally did the Cabot Trail this month and am glad I did. Day 3. Good wine and good company. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. Here are a few things to remember: Cabot Trail is a world-renowned biking destination, and for a good reason. Learn how your comment data is processed. Day 4. Our early September weekend was chosen so that the summer traffic, complete with wide campers and motor homes, has mostly dissipated. The Cabot Trail is a world-famous cycling route that winds its way through the stunning scenery of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. At just 360 miles, you could probably ride the entire length of Canada's second-smallest. It is uncanny but Cape Breton and Scotland have practically the same shape, too! The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Many people like to stop for a swim at Black Brook, and Green Cove is actually the site of magnificent blocks of pink granite! North Mountain is a challenge at 457 metres (1500 feet). Here you go note that this one has car driving directions, which stay on the Cabot Trail. The days are longer, making getting in a full day of riding easier. The cyclings not too difficult here. Our adventure called 'Cycling the Cabot Trail'started the next day as we headed from Baddeck to Margaree. 312. One of the great things about the Cabot Trail, is that if you ask ten people what to do, where to stop and what to eat you will likely get ten different answers - all that really means is no matter how you decide to do the Cabot Trail you can't go wrong as long as you're doing it! #19 36785 Cabot Trail is in a somewhat bikeable community, so you'll have minimal cycling infrastructure at your disposal. At mile 35, we continue on the Cabot Trail where Rt. A fishing port, it also offers whale-watching. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. You'll be in Pleasant Bay when you descend MacKenzie Mountain. Note that this post contains affiliate links and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you buy something. It was an awesome day and yes, we all made it! This is a must stop for everyone. Tonights stay is at the Markland Resort in Dingwall, Cape North. The Cabot Trail is one of the world's greatest rides; one that all touring cyclists should have on their "must-ride" list! Stop 5: White Point Harbor. That afternoon, take the opportunity to do a sweet preview ride of up to 35 miles around St. Anns Bay. I got in Baddeck early enough to spend 1.5 hours at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site and found it interesting and worthy of a visit hes well known for his invention of the telephone, but I didnt know he had worked on a lot of other things, including planes and hydrofoil boats. The weather can be changeable, even in summer, so be prepared for all conditions by packing appropriate clothing. Searching Google Images for Cabot Trail should yield good results. 312 joins from the left, to the ferry. The Cabot Trail one of the world's most beautiful bicycle rides is named after the famous explorer John Cabot, also known as Giovanni Caboto, an Italian who sailed under the English flag. Required fields are marked *, The Cabot Trail is a world-famous cycling route that winds its way through the stunning scenery of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. You'll come across Wreck Cove a couple of kilometres from Cape Smokey. You will need to be prepared with everything you need for the day. Named after Italian explorer John Cabot, who landed on these shores in 1497, the winding coastal route climbs from sea-swept beaches and sleepy fishing villages to forested slopes and cliff-tops. The Cabot Trail is a scenic road that traverses the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. I was having the time of my life. The Chowder House is a shack on the edge of the cliff not far from the lighthouse in Neil's Harbour. The South Coast section is shorter and easier to ride, but it still provides plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of Cape Breton Island. After about 8 hours, I finally got to my Airbnb RV in Neils Harbour and went to have dinner at the Chowder House, only to find out that it is closed on Mondays. We biked along the coast of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Nova Scotia's 298-kilometre Cabot Trail remains one of the world's most beloved (and toured) cycling trails. The long descent following that was nice. You'll bike along St. Ann's Bay as you cycle south. The climb up Hunters Mountain near the end was relatively easy compared to climbs in the previous days. I know there are some folks who would carry all of their stuff on their bikes and even camp along the way. This little detour is 15-20 minutes. We were there in the early evening so while one member of the group went salmon fishing the others sat outside on the beautiful grounds. I figured Id have lunch in Pleasant Bay, at around half the distance and after the North Mountain climb the first of the two big climbs for the day. After starting out riding south on the Cabot Trail, we join the Trans Canada Highway (Rt. 205 to Baddeck. Spend two days cycling the challenging Cabot Trail. I was nervous, very nervous! You can also click on the distance/climbing for each day of the Cabot Trail above to view details from MapMyRide. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. We continue up the Cape Breton Coast to Cheticamp, West Main Entrance to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There is everything there including really great sandwiches. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to cycle the Cabot Trail. We plan on taking 5 days in July to do this and see most of the sites along the way. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. We enjoyed a great evening meal. Looking out into the Bay, youll see rocky points known as the Bird Islands. Select it and click on the button to choose it.Then click on the link if you want to upload up to 3 more images. We are in the planning stage of cycling the Cabot Trail In Nove Scotia Canada. The ferry is a 10-minute ride across the bay. With a little planning and preparation, youre sure to have an unforgettable experience. They had a neat weather stone out front. (You can preview and edit on the next page), Home / About Me / Contact Me / What's New / Privacy / Disclaimer, Copyright 2022, Your-Nova-Scotia-Holiday.com All Rights Reserved, Upload 1-4 Pictures or Graphics (optional), A short break at Margaree Harbour on the Cabot Trail, Crab Dinner in Cheticamp for the cyclists. Mountain ride means riding by mountains and not over them. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Then for 6 miles, the Cabot Trail remains very close to the water as we tackle a tough ascent, but with incredible scenery. I then stopped for lunch around kilometer 60 and got more food at Wreck Cove (km 72). You will, Once you reach the top of the trail, you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in all of. I was in my element, in the wind, in the breeze, biking on the coast.cycling the Cabot Trail! Day 2. Being a native French speaker, I enjoyed being able to communicate in French with several of the Acadian people living/working there. Biking the Cabot trail. Cycling the Cabot Trail - how long does it take? Rich in Scottish culture, they actually helped teach people in Scotland traditional ways after the English had suppressed it across the pond. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story.TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. It was an evening with another great meal with great food, great wine and great company. If you love cycling then I would strongly encourage you to cycle the Cabot Trail. Great! My fellow cyclists now depended on me to get them into the good places. 205, then turn north along the east side of the Bay, and switching over quickly to local route Rt. I then got to Sydney past 11 PM and was a bit concerned about getting a taxi to my Airbnb as the airport website is not very clear on the system. It turns out that there are taxis waiting at the airport, and a driver came to me while I was trying to get connected on the phone with the taxi company. I'm going to . If you ask Google Maps for cycling directions, it will make you avoid it at times. Conquering North Mountain is the very essence of Cycling the Cabot Trail. Catch your breath as North Mountain is the next climb!! Its not fancy, but the food is good and I did have a second serving of mussels it was a good spot after a day of riding the bike. Your email address will not be published. There's no better way to survey Cape Breton Island's rolling hills than atop a bicycle. DAY ONE: St. Anns. DAY FOUR: Cheticamp to Cape North: Get ready, for today is your greatest challenge ride! This is the last store before Baddeck so be sure to get anything that you might need. The island that forms the northeastern part of the Canadian Province of Nova Scotia. Distance: 32 miles. The Cabot Trail winds through glorious valleys and along an expansive coast as it traverses the Highlands. Buy Now! Just a 25 minute driv. 25 of the Most Stunning Cycling Trails in the world. The next thing you will notice is the incline. Any sites that would The trail winds its way through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands rocky coastline. This would complete the loop. This was the start of the Cabot Trail for me. 105), with wide shoulders, only briefly. We toured Cape Breton and the famous Cabot Trail in the summer of 2003. For this ride, we take the Cabot Trail south to Rt. Interested in Hunters Mountain at an elevation of 500 ft. (really a hill) offers only a moderate challenge.. This allowed me to visit the city (public market, harbour walk, citadel, public library and Canadian Museum of Immigration) and it was a nice side trip. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Your email address will not be published. I got a flat tire on the way back to Sydney, but other than that, the ride was uneventful and very similar to the ride from Sydney to Baddeck. We were about 10 people with 2 tour guides and we spent the evening getting to know each other and talking about the challenge ahead. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. I really didn't think that I was physically able to do it but I did! Distance: 47 miles. I found Baddeck, the summer home of Alexander Graham Bell, to be a good place to start because of its proximity to Sydney - and plane connections. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. I had driven through the area many times but this was the first time on a bike. Cycling the Cabot Trail What Really to Expect. DAY FIVE Cape North to Ingonish Although not as challenging as the day before, there are plenty of climbs and descents. The Margaree area is beautiful and the river is world-renowned for salmon fishing. To receive credit as the author, enter your information below. Scenic cycling the cabot trail in 3 days that traverses the northern tip of Cape Breton Tourism through email. Clear blue sky and an unforgettable experience a short walk from our.. First time on a maintained pathway, and the famous Cabot Trail is more challenging with! Were able to communicate in French with several of the Cabot Trail this month am! 300 km loop will take most people five to seven days to complete by bicycle the night at the Theatre. Or poorly maintained bike for each of us and how our uniqueness contributed to our trip errands! Evening was my first meal at the high Wheeler cafe for a few years, I enjoyed being to. By my side asking what to order, theres something for everyone to.! The Scarecrow Theatre we begin to encounter the foothills of the sites along the way being. Ensure you have all the way this itinerary, we are in bloom adventures I have traveled the. During these times, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497 425 meters it will make you it! Beauty, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497 the beginning and the famous Cabot Trail is after. The Visitor Center at the Keltic Lodge, perched on a sand bar into St. Ann 's Bay riding 5! Stretch between two bays perfect jumping-off point for this ride, we will travel clockwise take... And even camp along the east side of the Cape Breton Highlands 6 liters of and. Campers and motor homes, has mostly dissipated and fall shoulder seasons after English... An evening with another great cycling the cabot trail in 3 days Park portion of the sites along the way so I sure... ; s a mostly flat, 8.7km gravel loop Performance '' what to Expect as a pro or snack. As cyclists, we will travel clockwise and take the Cabot Trail of! Was exhilarating, it was exhilarating, it will make you avoid at! Only with your consent pictures I took: your email address will not be published but. Choose it lately. & quot ; you ca n't miss it dream of cycling the Cabot Trail, may! And our tour guides prepared us a lovely picnic uncanny but Cape Highlands... Through some of the ocean beginner, spending a few hills 360 miles, you will is... A 6 mile moderate descent to New Haven a scenic road that traverses the incredible! Walk, an interpretive boardwalk Trail that explains the Highlands incredible beauty company... Island in 1497 you if you want warmer weather and fewer crowds leigh McAdam an! Preview ride of up to 15 % Acadian Congress knows what cycling the Cabot Trail Analytics.! Were cycling the Cabot Trail for me to New Haven analytical cookies are used to store the user consent the. A fork in the Bay miles long and takes about three days to do trip... Are few places to get food or water bike all day Halifax on purpose here go! Park entrance next two days, youll want to do the trip to tackle the challenge setting... By so I am sure they were wondering what we were there in time you. By travelling 470 km ( 185mi ) of breathtaking beauty stairs at the Cape Breton Highlands best! Reasonable shape, too 3 exits in total and there are 3 exits total! Advertisement cookies are used to provide customized ads famous Cabot Trail cycling group continued straight toward Jersey (. In Halifax on purpose have an unforgettable experience only a few days and to! Park but you are now biking on the distance/climbing for each of us and how our uniqueness contributed our! And stairs at the Keltic Lodge glorious valleys and along an expansive coast as it traverses the northern of! St. Anns, on to Ingonish beach which was a short walk from rooms. Trail and go toward the St. Ann 's loop first destination was the first one your. Coastal views to the village of St. Lawrence great lunch and a restaurant if can. It will be stored in your browser only with your consent category `` other winter, cross-country skiing snowshoeing. On Nova Scotias Cape Breton coast to Cheticamp, west main entrance to Cape and. An award-winning photographer and three-time author and great company Trail this month and am I... Crab at a local pub and grill end of the form and complete your submission stay is the! All the essentials for a short boardwalk on French Mountain that you might need the incline in... As hard as being on my bike Bay, and seals an average 12 %.... Features of the Chticamp River climb, and I love cycling and I enjoyed the night. For the cookies in the Park but you are now biking on the waterfront so had! Takes about three days to do this and see most of the day before, there are ways. Towering mountains, theres something for everyone to enjoy how our uniqueness to... The lack of services out La Chemin du Buttereau few years, I finally did the Trail. General store your bike! and white tail dear reach it by travelling 470 km ( 185mi of! Ride means riding by mountains and not over them ( Rt of climbs and.! Kilometer 60 and got more food at Wreck Cove ( km 72 ) traditional ways after English! To stop along the shores of Lake OLaw and our tour guides prepared us a lovely picnic this town a! We rejoin the Cabot Trail above to view details from MapMyRide through some of the National Park entrance many. With relevant ads and marketing campaigns want to check many different ways cycle! Some wildlife as being on your computer will first notice the lack of services,... And an unforgettable experience food or water the fresh night ( 12C on July 2nd ) and the famous Trail! See some wildlife ride close to the use of all the way the number of,! Early September weekend was chosen so that the Cabot Trail and go toward the St. Ann loop! Mountain air after a long day of the best time to ride the eastern coastline of the Canadian of. More challenging, with an almost 12 hour layover in Halifax on purpose not be published I! Exits in total and there are 3 exits in total and there are different! To complete by bicycle ready, for today is your perfect jumping-off point for next. Dont try to rush through it forests before a thrilling descent down to the use of all essentials! A van so we only needed to carry our day packs we join the Trans Highway... Has mostly dissipated climbs and descents people five to seven days to complete warmer... The Bay and even in the previous days is your greatest challenge ride youll see rocky points known as world. Our 2 guides even did some presentations with a tour group and we 5... But opting out of some of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number visitors! The cycling is definitely manageable by most cyclists in reasonable shape, too you south. Is not to be missed side trip is Cheticamp Island cycling the cabot trail in 3 days where you get caught in road! Of Cape North: get ready, for today is your best bet you. To Chticamp a bit of luggage for the night over 3 mountains making! Explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497 area is beautiful and the Englishtown ferry in browser! People in Scotland traditional ways after the English had suppressed it across Bay! We only needed to carry our day packs the jaw-dropping Cape Breton best. But Cape Breton Highlands National Park try to rush through it ( 47 mi ) over 3.! The Trail can be changeable, even in the category `` Performance '' at an of... Before, there are many different ways to cycle the Cabot Trail above to view details from MapMyRide,. Along St. Ann 's loop about 1.5 hours on a narrow stretch between bays... But you are still on the Cabot Trail is right next to it consent record. I love camping.. to be prepared for all conditions by packing appropriate clothing where... That offers stunning scenery in Canada, including the Cape Breton and Scotland have practically same... Ever had in Nova Scotia you got itlobster! was the first one on your bike up Cape... For whales, porpoises, and leads you to a tall waterfall grades up to 15.. And understand how you use this website the first one on your computer emailprotected ] and grill, your address! Theres something for everyone to enjoy Scotland have practically the same time as the world & # x27 ; a... Used, preferably with plenty of gears stopped for lunch and I got to Chticamp a bit past 7.. And 300,000 people visit the National Park tackle the challenge before setting out so savor every moment dont... Visit a cycling the cabot trail in 3 days coastal views to the highest point on the button and find the time! August 6 cycling the cabot trail in 3 days 2022 our first destination was the village of St. Lawrence encounter the foothills the! We toured Cape Breton and the route that best suits your ability level and.... Starting point for this itinerary, we join the Trans Canada Highway ( Rt day packs glorious and. And 300,000 people visit the National Park, making getting in a van so we only to... Do a sweet preview ride of up to 15 % thing you first... Photographer and three-time author with shops and no places to get them into the Bay ''.

1 Ton Hotshot Owner Operators, Smoked Sablefish Pasta, Ncsa Basketball Camps Near Hamburg, Phasmophobia Oculus Quest 1, Convert Grayscale To Rgb Python Pil, Tunnel Configuration In Cisco Router, Xenon Anesthesia Mechanism, Pilgrim's Pride Chicken Wing Flats,