There were only 5-10 km out of nearly 300 that reminded me of Montreal. Ride the eastern coastline of the National Park, then explore the roads heading north to quaint fishing . 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. The climb up Hunters Mountain near the end was relatively easy compared to climbs in the previous days. There is a short boardwalk on French Mountain that you might want to check. The Ultimate One Day Cabot Trail Itinerary. This is also the time when mosquitoes and black flies have disappeared. 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. View pictures of this outpost of civilization. I ended up drinking more than 6 liters of water and used two electrolyte maintenance powder pouches on that day. Photos by the author. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Plus, theres nothing like cozy campfires and crisp mountain air after a long day of cycling. 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. Required fields are marked *. Then theres a 3 mile descent, with some very steep drops, an average 12% grade. Our cycling group continued straight toward Jersey Cove (route 312) and the Englishtown Ferry. 3. 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. She handed us our park pass through the window of her booth, smiling. And the waitress was very impressed that we were cycling the Cabot Trail. Anyway, I made it!! 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. Keltic Quay Bayfront Lodge & Cottages. Honestly, I couldn't make it all the way so I had to push my bike. 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. Along this route we visit a stunning coastal panorama, with mountains climbing right from the sea. 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. There were a lot of pretty views along the way, and I got to Chticamp a bit past 7 PM. 205 to Baddeck. There is a great general store there called the Wreck Cove General Store. We met at the High Wheeler cafe for a great lunch and a great coffee. 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. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The cycling is definitely manageable by most cyclists in reasonable shape, but it does include some steep climbing sections. This little detour is 15-20 minutes. As cyclists, we may well get the opportunity to photograph black bears, moose, and white tail dear. There are lots of people who are more talented and/or dedicated than me when it comes to taking pictures. 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. The exit to the Cabot Trail is right next to it. 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. We ride close to the Ocean, again with spectacular views. During these times, the weather is milder, and the crowds are thinner. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Note that this post contains affiliate links and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you buy something. 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. Once you reach the top of the trail, you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in all of Nova Scotia. It's a 4.6km path that takes you through a beautiful forest with glimpses of the Chticamp River. Just past French Lake is the Bog Walk, an interpretive boardwalk trail that explains the highlands incredible beauty! Learn how your comment data is processed. 5. Two wheels, or three, sometimes one, but never more than twenty. 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. From the stunning coastal views to the towering mountains, theres something for everyone to enjoy. You'll be in Pleasant Bay when you descend MacKenzie Mountain. At mile 35, we continue on the Cabot Trail where Rt. Those with little cycling fitness may find North Mountain a challenge (almost 500 metres to the highest point on the trail). 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. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. For this itinerary, we will travel clockwise and take the third exit past Baddeck. 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. The last thing to know is that the Cabot Trail is a loop, so you will end up back where you started. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. Your email address will not be published. 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. Climb up through old growth forests before a thrilling descent down to the coastline. 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. I enjoyed the fresh night (12C on July 2nd) and slept well, in preparation for the toughest day of the tour. 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. Our first destination was the village of St. Anns, on the Cabot Trail. The Normaway knows what Cycling the Cabot Trail is like so they fed us very well. DAY TWO St. Anns to Margaree Valley. The cyclings not too difficult here. 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. That afternoon, take the opportunity to do a sweet preview ride of up to 35 miles around St. Anns Bay. 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. Day 2. I then rode to Baddeck, my starting point for the Cabot Trail. 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). This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Assuming you are starting in Baddeck, you will first notice the lack of services. However, this section also offers more spectacular views of the ocean. Bring plenty of food and water. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 75 km (47 mi) over 3 mountains. Tonights stay is at the Markland Resort in Dingwall, Cape North. Reach it by travelling 470 Km (290 miles) north east from cosmopolitan Halifax. 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. It was an awesome day and yes, we all made it! If you're looking for a short trail with fewer people, check out La Chemin du Buttereau. The Chowder House is a shack on the edge of the cliff not far from the lighthouse in Neil's Harbour. We continue up the Cape Breton Coast to Cheticamp, West Main Entrance to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Just before reaching town, well stop in at the Alexander Graham Bell museum, a National Historic Site. We are in the planning stage of cycling the Cabot Trail In Nove Scotia Canada. Be prepared for hills. I then stopped for lunch around kilometer 60 and got more food at Wreck Cove (km 72). (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. Your email address will not be published. Cycling the Cabot Trail.the challenge ahead! 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. Take on the challenging Cabot Trail, a 300 km road carved into the edge of the jaw-dropping Cape Breton Highlands. You will need to be prepared with everything you need for the day. 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. White Point is one of the most beautiful fishing villages on the route. This means that if you want to do a longer ride, you can simply turn around and head back out on the trail again. 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. 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. Once over Kelly's Mountain, keep driving until you see a big red barn called The Red Barn. It is quite special. Truth be toldpushing your bike up the side of a mountain is probably just as hard as being on your bike!! Every summer, hundreds of cyclists drive through the heart of Nova Scotia en route to Cabot Shores, an idyllic Cabot Trail cycling basecamp. Is it best to go counter-clockwise or clockwise? You are now biking on a sand bar into St. Ann's Bay. The vibrant Acadian culture of this town includes a fiddling style all its own. Whycocomagh to Margaree Forks, 43 miles. The trail can be divided into the North Coast and South Coast sections. Day 3: Cheticamp to Aspy Bay - 85 km. Only 53 km (33 mi) and the route was not difficult with only a few hills. The Giant Fiddle in Sydney. 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. Cycling the Cabot Trail is not really complete until you get caught in the rain! Entering your story is easy to do. 312. That evening was my first meal at the Keltic Lodge. I admire these people but I don't think I could ever to do it! There really aren't any look-off spots along here. My biking buddies were by my side asking what to order. Great! 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. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are her passion. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. Distance: 45 miles. The leaves are changing their color, and the views are simply breathtaking. 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). The 300 km loop will take most people five to seven days to complete. We were a happy bunch of cyclists!! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The island that forms the northeastern part of the Canadian Province of Nova Scotia. I was with a tour group and we took 5 days to do the trip. A fresh air fiend's paradise, it is situated in Canada's Eastern province, Nova Scotia and its Cape Breton Highlands National Park. 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. The Cabot Trail is a scenic road that traverses the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. I'm going to . You'll see a side of Cape Breton that isn't revealed until you walk away from the road. If you love cycling then I would strongly encourage you to cycle the Cabot Trail. Get travel tips & outdoor inspiration by signing up for our monthly newsletter. They had a neat weather stone out front. Cycling Trail Ridge Road What to Expect as a pro or a beginner? Dress for success. The next day was our biggest day. Our 2 guides even did some presentations with a special gift for each of us and how our uniqueness contributed to our trip. 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. We even stopped along the shores of Lake OLaw and our tour guides prepared us a lovely picnic. Distance: 32 miles. 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. Just a 25 minute driv. Its a flat $15 rate to go to downtown from the airport, which is very reasonable given that its a 13 km ride. Searching Google Images for Cabot Trail should yield good results. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. We rejoin the Cabot Trail at Neils Harbor, another fishing village, with shops and services. 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. The acadian village of Cheticamp is special. Guess what I had for supper that night..you got itlobster!! But I didn't care I was having fun. The route is named after John Cabot, who explored the island in 1497. Theres a 3 mile climb, and then a 3 mile descent to New Haven. Services and amenities are not close by, meaning you'll definitely need a car to run your errands. Entering your story is easy to do. Be sure to inspect the world's largest fiddle, located on the waterfront. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. From there we have gentle riding the rest of the day. After riding north 5 miles, we pass the Visitor Center at the Cape Breton Highlands National Park entrance. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Cheticamp is the remote Acadian west main entrance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. Spend two days cycling the challenging Cabot Trail. Then we descend again, to the village of Cape North. You can't miss it. Another true gravel grinder. 205, then turn north along the east side of the Bay, and switching over quickly to local route Rt. If you turn right you'll continue on the Cabot Trail and go toward the St. Ann's Loop. And, if youre lucky, you might even get to see some wildlife! I seem to recall that their homemade pies were very good! And its uphill again, with a ride to the summit of North Mountain (elevation 445 m) at mile 38, about a 5 mile climb. A fishing port, it also offers whale-watching. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Hunters Mountain at an elevation of 500 ft. (really a hill) offers only a moderate challenge.. Stop 1: Charlene's Bayside Restaurant and Cafe. I had driven through the area many times but this was the first time on a bike. Tour de Slate, Middletown Springs, VT, August 6, 2022. 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. Easy..the seafood chowder or crab dinner or lobster dinner. This is not a trip you want to do on a cheap or poorly maintained bike. Any sites that would You can also click on the distance/climbing for each day of the Cabot Trail above to view details from MapMyRide. It is 300 km (185mi) of breathtaking beauty. After starting out riding south on the Cabot Trail, we join the Trans Canada Highway (Rt. Do you have a great story about it? The Margaree area is beautiful and the river is world-renowned for salmon fishing. It really depends a lot on what youre looking for. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. 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. You'll come across Wreck Cove a couple of kilometres from Cape Smokey. Here are a few things to remember: Cabot Trail is a world-renowned biking destination, and for a good reason. When packing for your trip, youll want to ensure you have all the essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Click here to see the rest of the form and complete your submission. Frommers Guide says its .. the best resort location on Cape Breton Islandthe best evening meal at the top of the island.. 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. A not to be missed side trip is Cheticamp Island, where youll view a lonely lighthouse high on the bluffs. Distance: 47 miles. Your email address will not be published. Two miles before reaching Englishtown, we take a 5 minute ferry ride (cyclists ride free, and the ferry leaves every 10 minutes.) Day 4. Hope that helps. 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. The area around #19 36785 Cabot Trail is highly car-dependent. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. If you can, lengthen your stay by a few days and stop to explore on foot. Biking the Cabot trail. The Cabot Trail is a world-renowned cycling route that offers stunning scenery, challenging climbs, and a sense of adventure. After considering doing it for a few years, I finally did the Cabot Trail this month and am glad I did. The ride runs parallel to the Continental Divide, and can start in either Banff or Jasper, both of which are exceptionally scenic towns. The next day we biked to Cheticamp (35 km/28 mi). Very good, for the most part. Be prepared for a lot of climbing! At just 360 miles, you could probably ride the entire length of Canada's second-smallest. "And the Coyotes have been pretty scrawny lately." Cycling the Cabot Trail - how long does it take? The total distance is 179 miles. 312 joins from the left, to the ferry. 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. Spring is your best bet if you want warmer weather and fewer crowds. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This is a small place but there is a convenience store and a restaurant if you need more water or a snack. 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). The boardwalk is called The Bog (hike#8 in the park). 105), with wide shoulders, only briefly. It is really cute and worth a look especially if the restaurant is still there and you need a little rest. They also have the Cabot Trail, a beautiful cycling route nearly 200 . Cheticamp calls itself the Hooked rug capital of the world. Whether youre an experienced cyclist or a beginner, spending a few days pedaling around the Cabot Trail is an unforgettable experience. The trees are starting to bud, and the flowers are in bloom. 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. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. Then for 6 miles, the Cabot Trail remains very close to the water as we tackle a tough ascent, but with incredible scenery. We stopped to snap some pictures at the Scarecrow Theatre. 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. 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. 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. Nova Scotia's 298-kilometre Cabot Trail remains one of the world's most beloved (and toured) cycling trails. 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. Next day, on to Ingonish to stay at the Keltic Lodge. Distance : 44 Miles. I felt the pressure! The slightly cooler weather is a plus for those long climbs youll be enjoying! Each year about 250,000 people drive it, but cycling Canada's famous Cabot Trail is the bucket ride destination for bikers. 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. We were there in time for lunch and I wanted to take my fellow cyclists for some authentic acadian food. Make sure to stop and take some pictures! This route is hilly to mountainous, and requires riders to be physically in shape. #19 36785 Cabot Trail is in a somewhat bikeable community, so you'll have minimal cycling infrastructure at your disposal. 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 know there are some folks who would carry all of their stuff on their bikes and even camp along the way. Cycling the Cabot Trail is one of the best outdoor adventures I have ever had in Nova Scotia. We stayed for the night at the Chanterelle Inn, overlooking the valley where the North River joins St. Anns Bay. Any hotel, motels that are recommended or not recommended. The ride runs parallel to the Continental Divide, and can start in either Banff or Jasper, both of which are exceptionally scenic towns. There is a boardwalk and stairs at the main viewpoint, where you get incredible views of the Cabot Trail. The days are longer, making getting in a full day of riding easier. Smokey is steep so biking down it in the rain is not to be taken lightly! You will, Once you reach the top of the trail, you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in all of. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to cycle the Cabot Trail. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The Cabot Trail is about 185 miles long and takes about three days to complete by bicycle. Required fields are marked *. 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 also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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. Stop 4: Middle Head Hiking Trail. The trail is named after John Cabot, the Italian explorer who discovered Newfoundland in 1497. It is uncanny but Cape Breton and Scotland have practically the same shape, too! You have already exited the park but you are still on the Cabot Trail. Day 3. Fall is another great time to ride the Cabot Trail. 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. 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! Between 250,000 and 300,000 people visit the National Park portion of the Cabot Trail every year mostly by car. Our adventure called 'Cycling the Cabot Trail' started the next day as we headed from Baddeck to Margaree . Make sure your bike is in good condition. 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. It will be on your right! It was a sunny warm day and it was wonderful. Distance: 41 miles. Your email address will not be published. Interested in 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. DAY FIVE Cape North to Ingonish Although not as challenging as the day before, there are plenty of climbs and descents. So, whens the best time for you to cycle the Cabot Trail? Stop 5: White Point Harbor. Cabot Trail - Mountainous, windy and sometimes foggy, this drive alternates between hugging the ocean and crossing the rugged Cape Breton Highlands. There are no coffee shops and no places to get food or water. Oops I almost forgot, we stopped at Neil's Harbour for lunch. The complete hike takes about 1.5 hours on a maintained pathway, and leads you to a tall waterfall. That said, here are a few pictures I took: Your email address will not be published. Catch your breath as North Mountain is the next climb!! Ahh, Cape Breton. Only 53 km (33 mi) and the route was not difficult with only a few hills. We started by meeting in Baddeck. 60k of Vermont hills. This is the last store before Baddeck so be sure to get anything that you might need. Here we begin a 6 mile moderate descent to Pleasant Bay on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. I really didn't think that I was physically able to do it but I did! 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! 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? Restaurant Acadien was my choice! 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 was nervous, very nervous! It is the greatest protected wilderness in Nova Scotia. 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. Because it's a loop, you can in theory start anywhere. 6. It is the greatest protected wilderness in Nova Scotia. Invest in a good quality bike and have it serviced before hitting the trail. Looking out into the Bay, youll see rocky points known as the Bird Islands. The descent on Cape Smokey with the rain was a little scary but we made it. You now have about 30 km (19mi) before you arrive in Baddeck. World renowned for its beauty, the Cabot Trail is also the most popular multi-day cycling route in Canada. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The trail winds its way through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands rocky coastline. 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. "200 Nature Hot Spots in Alberta" - Published June 2022. 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. If youre considering trying it, follow our tips and advice to make the most of your trip. Conquering North Mountain is the very essence of Cycling the Cabot Trail. 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. Buy Now! You'll see a fork in the road after cycling about 60km (37mi). We biked along the coast of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 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. There are no coffee shops and no places to get food or water. We toured Cape Breton and the famous Cabot Trail in the summer of 2003. Cars were watching us as they drove by so I am sure they were wondering what we were sharing!! 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. This was the start of the Cabot Trail for me. Then we take Rt. The ferry is a 10-minute ride across the bay. Stop 6: Rusty Anchor Restaurant. 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. We were all exhausted when we finally arrived at the Markham Resort in Dingwall for the night. Your email address will not be published. This is a must stop for everyone. There are many different ways to cycle the Cabot Trail, so research the route that best suits your ability level and interests. Our luggage was transported in a van so we only needed to carry our day packs. This would complete the loop. The coast is famous for whales, porpoises, and seals. My fellow cyclists now depended on me to get them into the good places. Sydney to Whycocomagh, 60 miles. There are few places to stop along the way, so ensure you have enough supplies to last the entire trip. Sturdy 30km $45 10:00 AM 30 km 100 $45 Take your time and enjoy the ride! 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). Rich in Scottish culture, they actually helped teach people in Scotland traditional ways after the English had suppressed it across the pond. We mostly maintain this altitude, with rolling Alpine terrain, and at 17 miles, we reach the summit of French Mountain (455 meters). Tonight we recommend the Auberget Doucet Inn and Restaurant. With a little planning and preparation, youre sure to have an unforgettable experience. We head back to St. Anns, through an area known as the Artisans Loop, where you might want to obtain souveniers from the ride. 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. Cycling the Cabot Trail is an amazing way to see everything this beautiful province offers. 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. The Cabot Trail is notoriously hilly, so ensure youre physically fit enough to tackle the challenge before setting out. There are 3 exits in total and there are two ways to do the Cabot Trail; counterclockwise or clockwise. Good wine and good company. I had driven through the area many times but this was the first time on a bike. 2. At mile 27, we are at the summit of MacKenzie Mountain (elevation 335 meters). 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. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. Select it and click on the button to choose it. The Cabot Trail offers 186 miles of winding roads and exhilarating scenery. Tonights stay is at the Keltic Lodge, perched on a narrow stretch between two bays. It was officially opened in 1932 and has since become a mecca for cyclists worldwide. It guides you through a section of the plateau to see rare flowers (pitcher plants, orchids) and fauna. 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. I like comfort especially after being on my bike all day! Many people like to stop for a swim at Black Brook, and Green Cove is actually the site of magnificent blocks of pink granite! The long descent following that was nice. 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. 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. It was another beautiful day and I enjoyed every minute. They certainly must have thought we were crazy for cycling the Cabot Trail! We stayed at the Normaway Inn. Required fields are marked *. This area is very beautiful. View at RideWithGPS. Do you have some pictures to add? We arrived at the same time as the World Acadian Congress. 25 of the Most Stunning Cycling Trails in the world. We stayed again at the Chanterelle Inn, Your email address will not be published. My dream of Cycling the Cabot Trail had come true! It's a mostly flat, 8.7km gravel loop. 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. We were able to easily walk to the beach and enjoy the breeze coming off the ocean. 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. There is everything there including really great sandwiches. I was in my element, in the wind, in the breeze, biking on the coast.cycling the Cabot Trail! The Cabot Trail winds through glorious valleys and along an expansive coast as it traverses the Highlands. Not to disappoint.that evening we enjoyed a great meal of fresh crab at a local pub and grill. 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. North Mountain is a challenge at 457 metres (1500 feet). 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. Our early September weekend was chosen so that the summer traffic, complete with wide campers and motor homes, has mostly dissipated. We begin to encounter the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands. At Smelt Brook, stop in at the Sea Spray Cycle Centre. DAY ONE: St. Anns. Click here to upload more images (optional). 13 votes, 12 comments. But if youre searching for stunning fall foliage and an unforgettable experience, then head out on the trail in autumn! The Margaree area is beautiful and the river is world-renowned for salmon fishing. It was pouring rain by the time we arrived. It does not store any personal data. The coast is famous for whales, porpoises, and seals. 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. My buddieswere not disappointed with our meal. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. Featuring dramatic ocean views and highland scenery, the Cabot Trail has been described as one of the world's top bicycle rides. 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. The Cabot Trail is one of the world's greatest rides; one that all touring cyclists should have on their "must-ride" list! By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 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. Learn how your comment data is processed. Wed like to do this on our own but not take an expensive tour. Dolar Blue: getting the best rate for Argentine Pesos (ARS). Spend the night at the Normaway Inn. Mountain ride means riding by mountains and not over them. Cycling the Cabot Trail What Really to Expect. car2go to YUL/Trudeau Airport Worth it? The Markham is on Aspy Bay and the view from our cottages was gorgeous. @Dolena I would assume youre going to stay somewhere one night maybe a B&B so Id ask your host. 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. I was having the time of my life. There were dozens of sailing boats in the bay and even in the rain it was quite beautiful. I flew from Montreal to Sydney on Aeroplan miles, with an almost 12 hour layover in Halifax on purpose. Distance: 30 miles. Being a native French speaker, I enjoyed being able to communicate in French with several of the Acadian people living/working there. Stop 3: Cape Smokey Picnic Park. Plan your route in advance. The trail winds through glorious valleys and along an expansive coast as it traverses the Highlands. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Just type!Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. Any suggestions about where we can leave a bit of luggage for the week while we cycle? 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). If you ask Google Maps for cycling directions, it will make you avoid it at times. 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! 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. 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. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. We turn west on the Cabot Trail, ride past Lake O Law, with rolling hills, following the Margaret River. There were several thousand more people than usual in Cheticamp. Once we arrived some went golfing and the others headed to Ingonish beach which was a short walk from our rooms. A Guide To Biking The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. A hybrid or road bike can be used, preferably with plenty of gears. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Powered by Walk Score 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. You'll bike along St. Ann's Bay as you cycle south. This charming resort village is often called the starting point of the Cabot Trail. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. 1.0m members in the bicycling community. We plan on taking 5 days in July to do this and see most of the sites along the way. For the next two days, youll will be encountering grades up to 15%. To receive credit as the author, enter your information below. World renowned for its beauty, the Cabot Trail is also the most popular multi-day cycling route in Canada. There's no better way to survey Cape Breton Island's rolling hills than atop a bicycle. The next thing you will notice is the incline. Stop 2: Wreck Cove General Store. It was an evening with another great meal with great food, great wine and great company. The North Coast section of the trail is more challenging, with longer climbs and rougher terrain. Experience over 3500 feet of elevation gain with gorgeous overlooks, maple-bordered gravel roads, a grass trail, and with plenty of aid stations. Our van support was great and we were all safe! The best time to cycle the Cabot Trail is in the spring and fall shoulder seasons. 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. For this ride, we take the Cabot Trail south to Rt. It was fancy but we were all relaxed and had a great time. Upon reaching Tarbotville, we turn south, returning to St. Anns on the Cabot Trail. Id also recommend contacting Cape Breton Tourism through this email [emailprotected]. We enjoyed a great evening meal. The Cabot Trail is notoriously hilly, with some very steep sections. Our adventure called 'Cycling the Cabot Trail'started the next day as we headed from Baddeck to Margaree. 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. The weather can be changeable, even in summer, so be prepared for all conditions by packing appropriate clothing. Do you have some pictures to add? I love cycling and I love camping..to be done separately! These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. A cycling tour of the world-famous Cabot Trail on Nova Scotias Cape Breton Island, I have traveled around the globe. My cycling colleagues were getting ahead of me because I was stopping to take so many pictures. Stop 7: Sunset Point. It was exhilarating, it was challenging, it was scary and it was amazing. Reaching nearly 425 meters it will be a difficult climb, but also a great descent into Pleasant Bay for lunch. Great! Leigh McAdam is an award-winning photographer and three-time author. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Please share it with us! 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 Clucking Hen restaurant is in North Shore. As cyclists, we may well get the opportunity to photograph black bears, moose, and white tail dear. Your email address will not be published. It was a beautiful day with a clear blue sky and an easy bike ride to Ingonish. DAY FOUR: Cheticamp to Cape North: Get ready, for today is your greatest challenge ride! 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. Here you go note that this one has car driving directions, which stay on the Cabot Trail. 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