The Cabot Trail, Cape Breton

The Cabot Trail is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world, a road that loops around the rugged northern highlands of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. It climbs over forested plateaus and plunges to the coast, with sweeping views of ocean cliffs, hidden coves and whale-rich waters, passing through Celtic and Acadian fishing villages where Gaelic and fiddle music still live.

What you actually see

• The coastal viewpoints - the clifftop pull-offs over the ocean.
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park - the plateau, trails and Skyline hike.
• The fishing villages - the Celtic and Acadian communities and their music.
• The wildlife - the whales, moose and bald eagles along the way.

When to go

Summer to autumn, June to October, for the best weather and open services; late September and October bring spectacular fall colour to the highlands. Many services close in winter, when the trail is snowbound.

Honest expectations

It is remote, far out in eastern Canada, so reaching Cape Breton is a journey in itself. Many services and attractions close outside the summer-to-autumn season. The drive is long, best over a couple of days with stops, and the weather on the highlands can be foggy and changeable.

Nearby

The Fortress of Louisbourg and the Bras d'Or Lake are on the island; Halifax is a few hours south.