cabot trail cape breton

This might be the most scenic road in all of Canada

Canada is known worldwide for its natural scenic views, but the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton might just be the most beautiful of all. 

The Cabot Trail is a 300-kilometre roadway encircling the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, providing breathtaking views no matter which way you choose to travel through it. 

Whether you want to drive along the trail or go golfing, kayaking, hiking, cycling or whale watching, you're sure to be met with unmatched beauty. 

Views from the trail are especially gorgeous during the fall season, when the foliage is blooming and the island is covered in red, orange and yellow. 

Because of its unparalleled coastal views and highland scenery, the Cabot Trail has been dubbed one of the most scenic routes by many. 

It was featured in USA Today's 10 Best Readers' Choice for Best a Motorcycle Trip back in 2014.

Cape Breton Island as a whole was also named the number one island in Canada by Travel + Leisure magazine in its annual Word’s Best Awards in 2018.

And the trail doesn't just offer natural beauty. 

Artisans come from near and far to draw inspiration from the landscape and sell their handmade goods. 

You can stop at any of the local shops along the way to purchase a one-of-a-kind souvenir, or you can even plan an entire road trip around the Cabot Trail artisans.

There also happens to be a long list of unbeatable seafood restaurants located along the trail, because nothing goes with the raw natural beauty of the water and the trees quite like a fresh lobster roll. 

The rich culture of Cape Breton Island is part of what sets it apart as a must-see destination, and if you happen to veer off the Cabot Trail you might just find yourself listening to live Celtic music, taking part in kilt-making, square dancing or learning about Acadian history. 

There's no other road quite like the Cabot Trail. It combines unbelievable natural beauty with outdoor activities, food, culture and more.

But if you still don't believe me, you'll just have to see for yourself.

Lead photo by

Ashley Macdonald


Latest Videos



Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Travel

Canada is getting a massive new resort that pays homage to Indigenous culture

Burnaby Mountain park in Canada is home to the Playground of the Gods

The Big Muddy Badlands in Saskatchewan are a slice of the Wild West

Mingan Archipelago national park reserve is home to the largest group of monoliths in Canada

Ouimet Canyon has breathtaking fall colours and an unreal lookout bridge

This tiny Scandinavian cottage in the Canadian forest is the ultimate getaway

The Parkhurst Ghost Town is an old logging outpost hidden deep in the Canadian forest

The Eastern Townships in Quebec look absolutely breathtaking in the fall