cape breton island

This island has some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in Canada

Cape Breton Island proves there's no place quite like Canada in the fall. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and everything is pumpkin-flavoured. 

Cape Breton Island is known to be one of the most beautiful places in Canada no matter the time of year, but when it comes to fall foliage it simply can't be beat. 

Located at the eastern end of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island during the fall is a nature lover's paradise. 

The colours peak right in the middle of October, and there's even a festival to help celebrate this momentous time of year. 

For nine days every October, the Celtic Colours International Festival brings concerts, dances, workshops, community meals and more to the island for all to enjoy against the backdrop of the fall colours.

Another way to soak in the beauty of the leaves is by driving or biking the Cabot Trail, a roadway encircling the island. 

The Cabot Trail has been dubbed one of Canada's most scenic drives, and it provides a front row seat to the beautiful fall foliage. 

Cape Breton is also known for its beautiful rivers, winding mountains, and it's home to the Bras d’Or Lake ⁠— Canada’s largest in-land sea and UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve

The island is also famous for its delicious fresh lobster and a strong celtic music scene. 

So while it's true that Cape Breton Island is a beautiful place to take a nature getaway during any of the four seasons, the beautiful autumn colours are simply the cherry on top of an already-gorgeous natural paradise. 

And if you don't believe me when I say Cape Breton Island is a feast for the eyes, take it from someone who's seen many beautiful places all over the world. 

"I have seen the Canadian and American Rockies, the Andes, the Alps and the Highlands of Scotland," Alexander Graham Bell once said, "but for simple beauty, Cape Breton outrivals them all."

Lead photo by

JayEffex


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