Cabot Trail Attractions
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The Cabot Trail is a 300km (190mi) stretch in the north-west of the island, starting from Baddeck. It got its name from the Italian seafarer Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot), who is thought to have been the first to land in North America in 1497.The enchanting combination of prairieland, hills and forests together with the proximity of the sea must make the Cabot Trail one of the most beautiful scenic stretches in the whole of North America.Despite the name, the Cabot Trail is actually a roadway.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Cape Breton Highlands National ParkThis national park with numerous footpaths extends over 985 sq.km (380 sq.mi) in the north of the island between the St Lawrence River and the Atlantic. The varied animal life is particularly impressive and includes beaver, deer, wild-cats, parrots, wild duck and eagles.The Information Offices in this park are to be found near Chéticamp and Igonish on the Cabot Trail. They are open in summer, late spring, and autumn; during the remainder of the year information can be obtained from the offices in Ingonish which are open every day.
Margaree Harbor, Canada
Margaree Harbor is a small fishing hamlet opposite the Île Margaree, an island which is home to numerous species of birds, such as cormorants and seagulls.
Acadian Museum, Cheticamp, Canada
Chéticamp is a little Acadian fishing village on the edge of Highlands National Park, with many craft workshops. A visit is recommended to the Acadian Museum and to the prettily decorated Church of St-Pierre built in 1893.The museum has displays of relics of the Acadian people, and demonstrations of wool carving, spinning, weaving and rug hooking. The main focus of this site is a craft shop featuring locally made hooked rugs.
Ingonish, Canada
The little fishing village of Ingonish with its picturesque harbor is a favorite place for outings both in summer and winter on account of its sporting attractions which include fishing, golf, tennis and swimming.Located along the Cabot Trail many people visit Ingonish to enjoy the scenery of the nearby inland lakes and Atlantic Ocean.
Cape Smoky
12km (8mi) south of Ingonish lies Cape Smoky, 365m (1200 ft) high, with a chair-lift to the top. On clear days there is a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.In winter Cape Smoky is a popular ski area.
