Taste Your Way Around Cape Breton
We’re lucky to live in a province with so many staycation opportunities, and Cape Breton is definitely one you don’t want to miss out on.
Get ready to explore a place filled with outdoor and coastal adventures, scenic drives and breathtaking views, and delicious Nova Scotian dining. We’ve mapped out your next three day road trip around the Island from where to eat, what to do, and where to stay. Let us (and your taste buds) guide you through your visit!
Day 1: Judique and Mabou
After your drive to the Island, make a stop in Judique to hike the Judique Flyer Trail, part of the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail. The trail offers spectacular coastal views, passes by three active fishing harbours, and features signage and interpretive panels, which outline the history and culture of the surrounding communities.
After your hike, m ake your way to Mabou and enjoy a tour and tasting at Glenora Inn and Distillery, North America’s first single Malt Whisky Distillery. After the tour you can attend a traditional Cape Breton Ceilidh at the Washback Pub, with music, storytelling, food and beverage, this is something you must experience while on the island. Stay overnight at the inn and rest up for tomorrow!
Day 2: Margaree and Meat Cove
On day two, drive over to The Dancing Goat, a culinary gem tucked in the hills of the Margaree Valley. After lunch, grab a latte and a package of Goat Cakes (oat cakes) to go. After all, what’s a road trip without snacks?
Your next destination is the most northern point of Cape Breton, drive your way up to Meat Cove while enjoying the breathtaking coastal views. Grab dinner at the Chowder Hut Restaurant (make sure you check into the Chowder Trail!) and stay overnight at the Meat Cove Campground. Nothing beats an ocean-side campfire!
Day 3: Ingonish and Baddeck
Catch the sunrise and spend a well-deserved relaxing morning at the Meat Cove Beach. Hop in a kayak or simply enjoy the waves from the shore. Remember those oat cakes you bought yesterday? They make a delicious breakfast option!
For lunch, drive down to Neil’s Harbour and enjoy fresh seafood at Chowder Trail stop The Chowder House. Located at the top of a cliff, the restaurant offers incredible scenery to take in while enjoying your meal.
For a memorable last night of your staycation, make your way down to Inverary Resort in Baddeck. Enjoy a meal made from fresh, local ingredients at the Lakeside Restaurant or order takeout and eat your meal on one of their floating picnic tables. End your night around the bonfire, reflecting on all the memories you’ve made in the past three days!
Other Recommendations
Cape Breton is filled with so many amazing culinary adventures that it can be difficult to fit them all in a three day itinerary. If you have more time to spend on the island, make sure you check out these incredible Taste of Nova Scotia members: Chanterelle Country Inn, Castle Rock Country Inn, Clove Hitch Bar and Bistro, Galloping Cows Fine Foods, Governor’s Pub, Kiju’s Restaurant, La Goélette à Pépé Café, Miller’s Seafood and Chophouse, and Victoria Co-Op Fisheries Ltd.
Don’t forget to log on to your digital passport to collect stamps on the Nova Scotia Good Cheer, Lobster, and Chowder Trails. Follow the trails. Capture the moments. Collect the stamps. Get the prizes.
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