When it comes to planning a trip to Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay along the iconic Cabot Trail. This scenic drive is renowned for its breathtaking ocean views, picturesque villages, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Why Choosing the Right Accommodation Matters
The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer route that takes you through some of the most remote and rugged areas of Cape Breton Island. With limited amenities and services along the way, it’s essential to plan your accommodations carefully to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The right accommodation can make all the difference in your travel experience, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring, and a convenient base for venturing out to explore the surrounding area.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay on the Cabot Trail, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts and camping sites. We’ll highlight the top destinations, including Baddeck, Ingonish, and Chéticamp, and provide insider tips on what to look for when booking your accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly vacation, or an adventure-filled escape, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay on the Cabot Trail.
Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail
The Cabot Trail, a scenic drive that winds its way through the stunning landscapes of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. When planning a trip to this incredible destination, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay on the Cabot Trail, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts and everything in between.
Cheticamp
Located on the western side of the Cabot Trail, Cheticamp is a charming Acadian fishing village that offers a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Here are a few of our top picks:
- Laurie’s Motor Inn: This family-friendly motel offers comfortable rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving up delicious seafood dishes.
- Auberge des Pêcheurs: This cozy bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Cheticamp and offers beautifully decorated rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
- Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort: For a more rustic experience, head to Cabot Shores, which offers luxury yurts, glamping tents, and RV sites, as well as a range of outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.
Ingonish
Ingonish, located on the eastern side of the Cabot Trail, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Here are some of our top picks for places to stay in Ingonish: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Santa Fe)
- Keltic Lodge at the Highlands: This luxurious resort offers comfortable rooms, suites, and cottages, as well as a range of amenities like a spa, fitness center, and golf course.
- Ingonish Beach Inn: This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving up fresh seafood.
- Broad Cove Campground: For a more rustic experience, head to Broad Cove Campground, which offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts.
Baddeck
Baddeck, located in the heart of Cape Breton Island, is a charming town with a rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of our top picks for places to stay in Baddeck:
- Inverary Resort: This luxurious resort offers comfortable rooms, suites, and cottages, as well as a range of amenities like a spa, fitness center, and golf course.
- Baddeck Inn: This historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a range of amenities like a fitness center and hot tub.
- Bras d’Or Lakes Inn: This cozy bed and breakfast offers beautifully decorated rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
Mabou
Mabou, located on the western side of the Cabot Trail, is a charming village with a rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of our top picks for places to stay in Mabou:
- Duncreigan Country Inn: This cozy bed and breakfast offers beautifully decorated rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
- Mabou Inn: This historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a range of amenities like a fitness center and hot tub.
- Celtic Music Centre: This unique accommodation offers comfortable rooms, a music center, and a range of amenities like a hot tub and sauna.
Other Options
In addition to these top picks, there are many other options for places to stay on the Cabot Trail, including:
- Camping: For a more rustic experience, consider camping at one of the many campsites along the Cabot Trail.
- Vacation Rentals: Rent a cozy cottage or house through services like Airbnb or VRBO.
- Hostels: Stay at a hostel, like the Cabot Trail Hostel, which offers dorm rooms and private rooms.
Tips and Tricks
When planning your trip to the Cabot Trail, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Book Ahead: Accommodations on the Cabot Trail can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so be sure to book ahead.
- Research: Research your options carefully, considering factors like location, amenities, and price.
- Be Flexible: Be flexible with your travel dates and accommodations, as some places may offer discounts or packages during the off-season.
Conclusion
The Cabot Trail is a unique and unforgettable destination, with a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone on this stunning drive. By considering factors like location, amenities, and price, you can find the perfect place to stay on the Cabot Trail and make the most of your trip. (See Also: Canary Islands Best Places To Stay)
| Location | Accommodation | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Cheticamp | Laurie’s Motor Inn | Outdoor pool, restaurant |
| Cheticamp | Auberge des Pêcheurs | Hot tub, gourmet breakfast |
| Ingonish | Keltic Lodge at the Highlands | Spa, fitness center, golf course |
| Ingonish | Ingonish Beach Inn | Outdoor pool, restaurant |
| Baddeck | Inverary Resort | Spa, fitness center, golf course |
| Baddeck | Baddeck Inn | Fitness center, hot tub |
| Mabou | Duncreigan Country Inn | Hot tub, gourmet breakfast |
This table provides a summary of some of the top accommodations on the Cabot Trail, including their location, amenities, and features.
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the best places to stay on the Cabot Trail, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. We’ve also provided tips and tricks for planning your trip, including booking ahead, researching your options, and being flexible with your travel dates. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect place to stay on the Cabot Trail and make the most of your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay on the Cabot Trail
What is the best time to visit the Cabot Trail?
The best time to visit the Cabot Trail depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the spring (May to June) or fall (September to October). If you’re looking for winter sports, visit between December and March.
Are there any budget-friendly accommodations on the Cabot Trail?
Yes, there are many budget-friendly accommodations on the Cabot Trail. Consider staying at a campground, hostel, or guesthouse, which offer affordable rates. You can also look for vacation rentals, such as apartments or cottages, which can be more cost-effective than hotels. Additionally, many accommodations offer package deals or discounts during the off-season.
Can I stay in one place for the entire trip or should I move around?
Both options are possible, depending on your travel style. Staying in one place for the entire trip allows you to explore the surrounding area and get to know the local community. On the other hand, moving around allows you to experience different parts of the Cabot Trail and see more of the scenic coastline. Consider staying in Baddeck, Ingonish, or Chéticamp for a central location. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Belize All-Inclusive)
Do I need to book my accommodations in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (June to August). The Cabot Trail is a popular destination, and many accommodations fill up quickly. Booking ahead of time ensures that you get the accommodations you want and avoids last-minute stress.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations on the Cabot Trail?
Yes, many accommodations on the Cabot Trail are pet-friendly. However, it’s essential to check the pet policy before booking, as some may have restrictions or additional fees. Consider staying at pet-friendly vacation rentals, campgrounds, or hotels that specifically cater to pets. Always clean up after your pet and respect other guests.