A hike to Castle Rock in Nova Scotia is perfect for those who love scenic trails, and sweeping panoramic views. It is 8.2km loop, with views of lakes, rivers, and an epic look off point. It is a great activity to do anytime of the year, and one of the top hikes to do in Nova Scotia.
The top of Castle Rock!
How do I get to Castle Rock Nova Scotia?
The Castle Rock hiking trail is located in East River, Nova Scotia. It is about a 45 minute drive from Halifax, and only 10 minutes from Chester!
To get there, take exit 7 off of the 103 highway.
If you use Google Maps, the parking lot is near Ultramar Energy in East River.
The parking lot for the trail can be found where highway 3 and 329 meet (in the black circle below). Sometimes on really nice days, this parking lot gets full, so you may need to park on the side of the road instead.
You will need to walk (or bike!) 3km along the Chester Connection Trail (an old railway track turned into a trail) to get to the trailhead of the Castle Rock hike.
The black circle shows where the parking lot is for the trail The parking lot for the Castle Rock hike
How long does it take to hike Castle Rock Trail?
The length of the the trail is 8.2km, and takes about 3 hours to complete.
map of the trail
When is the best time to visit Castle Rock?
The trail can be visited any time of the year. In the Autumn, you can see the foliage from above. The Spring and Winter aren’t as busy, but the trail can be more slippery so be careful if you do go.
The BEST time to visit is early morning or evening. On a nice day, the trail gets VERY busy in the afternoon (around 12-2pm). I have personally had the best luck, even on the busiest of day, by going about 3.5 to 4 hours before nightfall.
How difficult is the trail?
For the first 3km (about 40 minutes), the hike to Castle Rock is actually on the Chester Connection Trail (an old railway track turned into a trail). It consists of a flat, gravel pathway which is very easy to navigate.
After 3km, you will reach the Castle Rock Trailhead. The trail will go through a Christmas tree lot at the beginning, and is mostly uphill. The terrain becomes more rough and rocky.
There are 3 levels of difficulty to reach the top: easy, moderate, difficult. Each trail is well-marked.
The first 3km to get to the Castle Rock Trailhead has many scenic areas
What to expect on the easy trail option
The easy trail is a wide trail which can be accessed by ATVs until the very bottom of the rock (where the look out point is!).
Once you get to the bottom of the rock, you will need to climb up on it. It is steep no matter which difficulty level trail you take.
the beginning section of the easy trailThe middle section of the easy trail – closer to castle rock The easy section of the trail to get up on the rock
What to expect on the difficult trail option
The difficult and medium trails have very uneven terrain, and are more steep.
The trail width gets very narrow, but in my opinion there are more viewpoints along the way.
When you hike the difficult section of the trail, you will also see Castle Rock from below. It is really cool to see it from that perspective and you really gain an appreciation for how tall the rock is.
It can get very slippery in the winter though, so be careful!
the beginning of the difficult section of castle rock – much more steep compared to the easy trail!the middle section of the difficult trail, uneven terrainThe end section of the difficult trail – you can see Castle Rock in the distance!
Can I bring a stroller on the trail?
For those with strollers, the first 3km it is easy to walk with a stroller. Unfortunately once you reach the trailhead to Castle Rock, the terrain is too rough.
picnic area along the trail
Is Castle Rock dog friendly?
Yes! This is a great trail to bring your dog. There are lots of rivers and a lake that your dog can swim in to keep cool during warmer days.
ATVs frequently access the trail, so dogs must be leashed.
Tipsfor hiking to Castle Rock
There are bike racks located at the trailhead of Castle Rock. You can bike the 3km along the Chester Connection trail, and then walk the rest of the way up.
The trail is only partially shaded, so bring lots of sunscreen (and water!).
There are no washroom facilities on the trail.
The top of the rock is a great place to have a picnic, feel free to bring snacks and enjoy the view.
the bike racks located at the beginning of the Trailhead
Nova Scotia in the fall is one of the best times to visit. The weather is cool and sunny, the trees start to change to red and orange, and it is less busy compared to the summer months. There are so many activities that can be done in Nova Scotia, and below I share the 10 best things to do in Nova Scotia in the fall!
1. Visit a maze
Nova Scotia has so many unique mazes that are fun for families, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers. They are located about 1 hour away from Halifax, and make perfect day trips if you are just stopping by for a short amount of time.
Art maze
Open: July 1st – September 3rd
Bernart Maze, located off of the 103 Highway, is one of the most interesting mazes I have ever been to. The maze has art around every corner. There are sculptures, a vintage firetruck to climb on, games, a piano and so much more. It is always evolving with more art being added to it each year.
BernArt maze in Nova Scotia
Sunflower maze
Open: August 15 to the end of September
Dakeyne Farm has a sunflower maze. And yes, it sounds just as Instagram-able as it looks. So hurry and go! On site there is a place to have picnics, games and they provide kites you can fly.
Corn maze
Open: mid-September – October 31 (check their websites for more details)
There are so many corn mazes to visit in Nova Scotia in the fall. As of 2020, times to enter the mazes need to booked online in advance, visit their websites for more details.
Noggins Corner Farm Market – Wolfville, NS. Dog friendly as well, you can go apple and pumpkin picking, a food truck, and a haunted house!
Riverbreeze Farm – Truro, NS. During the day there is a corn maze, a pumpkin parch, and at night this turns into a Fear Farm with 2 haunted corn mazes with 4 haunted houses. It is terrifying and SO much fun.
Indian Garden Farms – Bridgewater, NS. On the property there are pumpkin and apple u-picks, a farm market to buy local produce and baked goods, a garden centre and the resident sheep “Bert and Ernie”!
2. Go apple and pumpkin picking
The corn mazes mentioned above also have U-picks for apples and pumpkins. So if you have time, a visit to a U-pick and then the corn maze makes for a great day out.
Fall Foliage at it’s peak in Nova Scotia
3. Go Hiking around Nova Scotia in the fall
Going on a hike in the fall to breathe in the cool, autumn air and admire the fall foliage is one of the best things to do in Nova Scotia in the fall. And Nova Scotia has SO many trails to choose from! To find a hike near you, use the AllTrails app, or check out 8 of my favourite, most unique hikes.
4. Drive the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton
Driving the Cabot Trail in the fall when the tree leaves are at their peak is one of the top things to do in Nova Scotia in the fall. There is an abundance of hiking trails that offer gorgeous views of the fall foliage, waterfalls, and the drive is stunning.
What better way to admire the fall foliage than being in the trees? OnTree: Fun and Adventure Park is located in Windsor, Nova Scotia. Their park features 18 courses which involve rope courses, climbing walls and ziplines. They range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone.
6. Go on a Haunted Walk
What would autumn be without a little bit of spookiness. Going on a haunted walk to explore a new town and hear the dark side of it’s history will help you get in the Fall and Halloween spirit. A few notable haunted walks are:
Halifax Ghost Walk: Lively story-telling about Halifax’s history. Entertaining and always a little bit frightening.
Valley Ghost Walks Hear spooky tales and witness them come to life! Warning: you may see a ghost or two.
Haunted Lunenburg Walking Tour: Hear ghost stories and explore the historic town of Lunenburg and it’s cemetery in the dark.
Lunenburg Academy – one of the locations during the Haunted Walk.
Made famous by the TV show the Amazing Race, the town of Mahone Bay becomes decorated with Scarecrows. There is also an antique show, food stands and activities. At night there is a Pumpkin Walk where you can walk among carved pumpkins listening to local musicians play.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Since the festival becomes more popular each year, the Pumpkin Walk changes to accommodate for the growing crowd, so no pumpkin walk is the same. Sometimes the pumpkin walk gets canceled, so check the website for event details before going.
Scarecrow Festival in Mahone Bay
Pumpkin People Festival – Kentville
October 1-31
Every October in Kentville, Nova Scotia the town becomes decorated with hundreds of pumpkin people. Each year has a theme (in 2020 it was “Fables, Folklore & Fantasy”. Check out their website for more details.
Celtic Colours International Music Festival – Cape Breton
If you love Celtic music, seeing jaw-dropping scenery, waterfalls and going on road-trips then this is the festival for you. During Autumn when the leaves are at their peak, Cape Breton hosts the Celtic Colours International Music Festival. Musical performances of all sizes are held ALL over the island of Cape Breton.
Giant Fiddle in Sydney Cape Breton
8. Go Canoeing in Nova Scotia in the Fall
Seeing the fall foliage from the water is so peaceful and incredibly beautiful. There are a few places in Nova Scotia where you can rent a canoe or kayak, or go with a guided group. They are great for any skill level.
North River Kayaking Tours – North River, Cape Breton. See bald eagles and waterfalls on either a half day or full day guided kayak tour.
Whynot Adventure – Kejimkujik National Park (pronounced ked-gee-mah-coo-jick). They offer short and multi-day guided tours, and rentals for canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
By Th’ Bay Kayak – Darmouth. Hourly rates for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding are available along Cow Bay Pond. Dog-friendly as well!
9. Tidal Bore Rafting in the Bay of Fundy
May 1 – October 31, 2020
A really fun activity that is unique to Nova Scotia is Tidal Bore Rafting. The Bay of Fundy features the highest tides in the world, and riding the tidal bores is adrenaline pumping, and SO much fun. If you’re nervous about trying it, sit in the back of the boat for a bit more smooth ride.
Tidal Bore Rafting Resort offers 2 hour and 4 hour tours for Tidal Bore Rafting. Warm suits can also be provided during your rafting adventure so that you don’t get too cold. And if you’d like, you can book a night in one of their cozy cottages, or eat in their on-site restaurant.
10. Relax at the Nordic Spa in Chester
Sensea is Nova Scotia’s first Nordic Spa, and located only 45 minutes from Halifax in the picturesque village of Chester. It is outside overlooking a lake among the forest, and a serene and perfect place to unwind. There is a Scandinavian Sauna, and hot and cold plunge pools. Relax by the lake in hammocks or lounge chairs, or meditate or practice yoga. Food and beverages are available, and there will be overnight accommodations opening soon.
Do you have a favourite activity to do in Nova Scotia in the Fall? Let me know in the comments below!
Driving the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton is one of the most spectacular activities to do in Nova Scotia. The scenery is so unique compared to the rest of Nova Scotia, with tall hills and winding roads. There are plenty of hikes, waterfalls and live musical events that make Cape Breton truly a worthwhile place to visit. Below are my top tips for visiting the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
First things first – what is the Cabot Trail?
The Cabot Trail is a scenic roadway 298km (or 186 miles) long that circles around the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. To enter the National Park, you need to pay a fee of $7.50 a day (as of 2020). This gives you access to the park and all of the hikes!
Cabot Trail in Cape Breton
How long does it take to go around the Cabot Trail?
If you were drive around the Cabot Trail without stopping it would take about 5 hours. But where’s the fun in that! It is possible to drive the Cabot Trail in one day, but it would be really rushed. It is recommended a minimum of 2 full days to drive on the Cabot Trail.
Which direction is the best way to drive around the Cabot Trail?
The short answer is – either direction. I promise! Each direction is incredibly scenic, but here is a breakdown of each direction so that you can choose:
If you drive clockwise: for the majority of the drive you will be on the inside lane. You will for the most part need to cross the road to get to the pull-over stops.
If you drive counter-clockwise: for the majority of the drive you will be on the outside lane and be closest to the water. It will be easier to pull off to the side of the road where the majority of the look-off points are too. In the morning, you will be on the same side as the sunrise.
When I drove the Cabot Trail, I drove counter-clockwise. There were sections when I was on the outside lane overlooking the water. As the road twists and turns you will end up with views on the left hand side, and be on the inside lane. There were occasions where we had to turn around to look at the view behind us, and it would have been easier to see them if we had travelled clockwise. The same could be said for driving clockwise too, though.
So to summarize: go in whichever direction you want and is most convenient for you. The views are equally as good. There are loads of pullover stops so that you can fully appreciate the views too.
Driving along the Cabot Trail in the counter-clockwise direction. In this particular section we were in the “inside” lane.
Is it scary to drive on the Cabot Trail?
A lot of concerns before driving the Cabot Trail is if it is scary or not. If you are driving in the dead of winter in ice and snow, then yes it is. BUT, chances are you will be driving in the summer or fall months (the best time to go).
It isn’t scary to drive the Cabot Trail. It can get twisty and have steep inclines, but the roads are wide and you aren’t close to the edge. Here is a video showing the most “extreme” part of the trail (driving in the counter-clockwise direction):
In my personal opinion, Autumn (from around October 8th-18th) is the BEST time to see the Cabot Trail. Seeing the vibrant fall foliage from above is stunning.
The weather in the fall is much cooler, so you won’t feel like dying from heat exhaustion during an uphill hike. The only downside to traveling in the fall is that the weather can be more unstable. It also gets dark earlier, which means less time exploring during the day.
For crowds, the autumn months are generally less busy too. With the exception during Thanksgiving Weekend during Cape Breton’s Celtic Colours Music Festival. The added bonus to traveling during this time is that there are plenty of places to enjoy traditional fiddle music!
If you travel after the Thanksgiving weekend, a few places start to shut down. If there is a restaurant or activity you want to do, check online beforehand to make sure they are open.
Tips for Hiking
If you are planning to hike, you have LOTS of options. There are 26 hikes that range in difficulty and length. My best advice is to research each trail on the National Park’s website to see which one’s peaks your interest. A good rule of thumb is 2 hikes per day.
Allow plenty of time for stops to enjoy the scenery too!
The AllTrails app is extremely useful for planning hikes. It provides a map and shows your location on the trail. It also shows tips, photos and time it took others to hike.
Dogs are not allowed on the Skyline Trail. If you want to bring your dogs, unfortunately this one isn’t for them.
Bring lots of snacks! Save money (and time!) by bringing breakfasts to eat in the morning, and snacks for hiking.
Be careful of the wild life. There are black bears, coyote and moose. It is best to hike with others. Bring either coyote or bear spray with you (can be purchased from Canadian Tire or Amazon). There are signs on every trail which will tell you what to do if you encounter an animal. Also, keep an eye out for them when driving!
Download an offline map of Cape Breton since cell service is VERY spotty. There are emergency phones along the Cabot Trail just in case you run into an emergency. The National Park provides a map too, so keep this too just in case.
Wear lots of layers! On one hike, it switched between rain, hail and bright blue sunny hikes – all within a 10 minutes. Wear a hat, gloves, and layers (I wore a T-shirt, sweatshirt and water-resistant winter coat and was fine).
Franey hike in Cape Breton National Park
Have you been to the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia? What would you recommend seeing? Let me know in the comments below!
Cape Breton has so many incredible waterfalls. However if you are short on time, and want to see a waterfall without having to hike for hours, then this list of 5 beautiful waterfalls in Cape Breton is for you.
These 5 waterfalls in Cape Breton take at most an hour to see, require minimal hiking, and the majority are very easy to get to. They are ranked from easiest to hardest to help you decide which ones are right for you.
Beulach Ban Falls
Out of all of the waterfalls in this list, Beulach Ban Falls is the most accessible waterfall in Cape Breton. The falls are a 1 minute walk from the parking lot, so no hiking is required.
The waterfalls are a 2.3km drive from the main road. The first thing you will see when you turn off the main road is a big, paved parking lot, but don’t park here! Continue down the gravel road to the second parking lot which is right next to the waterfalls. Although, keep in mind that campervans aren’t allowed to access the second parking lot and will need to park in the big, paved parking lot.
Beulach Ban Falls
Mary Ann Falls
Mary Ann falls is a 15 minute drive from the main road. Next to the parking lot is a short walk (about 400m) down a flat, gravel road. At the end of the road are picnic tables and a washroom, and a staircase to go down and see the waterfalls.
Mary Ann Falls
MacIntosh Brook Falls
This waterfall is at the end of the MacIntosh Brook Trail. The path is short, flat and well-groomed with only a few exposed roots. It takes at most an 1 hour to complete (1.7km long). There is also a picnic area at the beginning of this trail.
MacIntosh Brook Falls
Uisge Ban Falls (pronounced Ish-Ka Ban)
20 minutes from Baddeck, the trail begins as gravel covered pathway. Near the end of the trail, closer to the falls, the gravel trail ends. It it not too difficult near the end, but it becomes more uneven and covered in roots. There are no steep inclines on this trail.
The hike in total takes about 1 hour, and is about 3km long. There are a series of trails currently under construction (as of 2020) which will provide more places to walk.
Don’t be discouraged if it is rainy when you hike this trail. It is located between the bottom of two mountains, which creates so many other waterfalls!
Egypt Falls
By no means is this an easy waterfall to hike to, but if you are short on time it only takes an hour at the most to visit. The hike to and from the waterfall is 15 minutes each way. It is VERY steep and has ropes and stairs to help you down.
To find the entrance to the trailhead, drive to Pipers Glen Rd. (google maps will be your friend here). Look for orange tape and a stake on the righthand side of the road to indicate the trailhead.
It is usually quite popular in the middle of the day, so there will probably be other cars parked on the side of the road too. We arrived at 5:30pm (one hour before dark), and were the only ones there!
Tips for Visiting these Waterfalls in Cape Breton
Wear walking shoes. In this list, the hikes to each waterfall range from 2 minutes to 1 hour, but for the longer hikes good walking shoes will help you to not trip on loose rocks or roots!
Come prepared with water, sunscreen, and snacks. A few waterfalls have picnic areas, so bring a snack or lunch to enjoy next to a waterfall.
The Alltrails App is useful for planning trips. It is helpful to read reviews from other travelers so that you can make a decision on if it fits your abilities. The app indicates how long their hike was too.
Have you been to Cape Breton and visited these waterfalls? Are there any waterfalls that you would recommend visiting? Let me know in the comments below!
Cape Breton, Nova Scotia is one of the top places to travel in Nova Scotia. If you are visiting Nova Scotia, it is worthwhile to take a few days to explore this incredibly scenic destination. Below is an itinerary (and map!) for what to do for 3 days in Cape Breton, and amazing places to see along the Cabot Trail!
What is the Cabot Trail?
The Cabot Trail is a scenic roadway located within the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. To enter the National Park, you will need to pay a fee of $7.50 per day. Once paid, you will have access to all of the trails located within the park (the Skyline Trail, Franey Trail, etc.). You will be given a white receipt to put on the dash of your car to prove that you paid, and how many days you have access to the park.
When to visit Cape Breton
The summer and fall months (June-October) are the best times to visit Cape Breton. The winter months are cold, it gets dark early, and most places are closed. Also, the roads along the Cabot Trail have lots of turns and twists so it would be much more difficult to drive there in the winter.
Visiting for 3 days in Cape Breton in the fall is incredibly scenic with the fall foliage. The best time to visit is mid-October around Thanksgiving when the leaves are at their peak.
The Cabot Trail in the fall
Should I drive clockwise or counter-clockwise on the Cabot Trail?
The answer to this is: either direction! I have driven both. Counter-clockwise is the most popular direction to take. If you drive counter-clockwise, for the majority of the trail you are on the outside lane closest to the ocean.
How many days should I spend on the Cabot Trail?
2 full days (and 3 nights) driving on the Cabot Trail is the minimum amount of time to visit. There is SO much to do during 3 days in Cape Breton that you will wish you spent more time there.
What to do for 3 days in Cape Breton
Hiking, visiting waterfalls, kayaking, whale watching and going to a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) – a musical session with fiddle music – are all activities that can be done in Cape Breton along the Cabot Trail.
For a complete list of hikes along the Cabot Trail, click here.
Driving along the Cabot Trail
Where to stay during your 3 days in Cape Breton
Night 1: Baddeck. The beginning of the Cabot Trail (if driving counter-clockwise around the trail). It is an hour from Sydney which is convenient for doing day trips to the area. It is also close to Usige Ban Provincial Park and North River Kayaking Tours.
Night 2: Ingonish. The entrance to the trailhead for Franey is only a 10 minute drive away, and it is a great mid-way point along the trail.
Night 3: Cheticamp or Inverness. These towns are close to the Skyline Trail and Gypsum Mine. This is also near the entrance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and a convenient place to either start or end your roadtrip around the Cabot Trail.
Getting to Cape Breton from Halifax it is about a 3 hour drive, so the majority of the day will be spent driving to Cape Breton. Depending on how late in the day you arrive, there are a few options for what you can do when you arrive in Cape Breton.
Option 1: Spend the afternoon in Sydney, Cape Breton’s largest city. Visit the giant fiddle, see St. Patrick’s Church, have supper and explore some of the sites. If you have a full day in Sydney, it is worthwhile to check out the Glace Bay Miner’s Museum (30 minute drive from Sydney), or the Fortress of Louisbourg (40 minute drive away from Sydney).
The Giant Fiddle in Sydney
Option 2: Drive straight to Baddeck (the town considered the start of the Cabot Trail), and go on a hike at Usige Ban Provincial Park Falls (a 20 minute drive from Baddeck). The complete hike takes about 1.5 hours on a maintained pathway, and leads you to a tall waterfall. In the rain, it looks like a scene out of Twilight or Jurassic Park, with water cascading off of the mountains surrounding you.
Where to Eat in Sydney: The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse offers gluten-free options, and the best wings you will ever have!
Where to Eat in Baddeck: The Telegraph House in Baddeck offers a gluten free menu. Check their hours before you go, since they sometimes are only open in the evenings.
Where to stay night 1: Baddeck is a good option to stay your first night in Cape Breton. It is considered the entrance to the Cabot Trail, so it is the perfect place to start or end your journey. It is a small town with plenty of history, restaurants, shops, and museums. It is also close to hiking trails and kayaking adventures!
Within the town of Baddeck, there are lots of great options to stay as well.
Usige Ban Falls
Day 1 in Cape Breton
Morning: Kayak to a waterfall, see eagles soaring above, the admire the scenery from the water with North River Kayak Tours. They offer half day tours (3 hours long), or full day tours (6 hours long). Snacks are provided, and no experience necessary. Tours start at 9am and 1pm.
Afternoon: Drive along the Cabot Trail to the Franey trail, located in Ingonish. This hike takes about 2 – 2.5 hours to complete, so make sure you start the hike before it gets dark.
The Franey trail can be done as an out-and-back or a loop. The first half of the loop is very challenging with lots of steep hills and stairs. There are scenic lookouts that overlook the valley and river. If you do the loop, the way back is an old service road and much easier to descend.
It is recommended to do the trail as an out-and-back since it is more scenic and takes less time than the loop. However, either way you go the view from the top is worth it!
Where to Stay Night 2: Ingonish is the town closest to the Franey trail, and a good mid-way point along the Cabot Trail.
Morning: Spend the morning driving along the Cabot Trail to the Skyline Trail. This will take the majority of the morning. It is gorgeous, so take your time!
Stops to make along the way: Mary Ann Falls (currently undergoing construction in 2023, so check before you go), Lone Shieling Trail, and all of the look-out stops along the way.
The Skyline Trail is the most popular trail in Cape Breton, and is featured on all of the advertisements you may see. It can either be completed as a loop or an out-and-back. I have done both, and prefer it as an out-and-back since the loop isn’t as scenic and takes longer to do.
The Skyline Trail is the only trail in the National park that does not allow dogs. If you have dogs with you, a nearby option with similar views is Blueberry Hill.
Skyline Trail
Afternoon: After the skyline trail, drive about 20 minutes to Cheticamp for lunch. Cheticamp is along the ocean with lots of restaurants so it will be easy to find somewhere to eat.
After lunch, The Gypsum Quarry Mine is only 15 minutes away from Cheticamp, and takes about an hour to visit. It’s a lake surrounded by hills , and a look-off point overlooking the lake. It’s very scenic and a popular place for Instagram photos.
Where to eat in Cheticamp: Every Saturday from 2pm-6pm The Doryman Pub and Grill has live fiddle music. Cheticamp is small, but filled with restaurants so it will be easy to find a spot.
Where to staynight 3: It is recommended to spend the night in Cheticamp. If you don’t have time to hike to the the Gypsum Quarry Mine that day, you can easily visit the next morning since it is only 15 minutes away.
The last day in Cape Breton will mostly consist of driving back home. In the morning, it is worth to check out Egypt Falls. It is a 15 minute walk to the falls, but very steep. There are ropes and stairs to help you along the way, but be careful since it can get slippery with leaves and mud.
This trail is not within the National Park, so the entrance isn’t as well marked. The entrance to the trailhead is marked with an orange stake in the ground. It is also quite popular, so going in the morning will help beat the crowds.
Other places to see on the 3rd day in Cape Breton:
The Glenora Inn & Distillery for a tour and tasting.
The Celtic Music Interpretive Centre for lunch and live fiddle music! Ceilidhs are from 11:30 to 3pm from Mondays to Saturdays, and at 12pm on Sundays.
Egypt Falls
Top Tips for visiting Cape Breton
You won’t be able to see everything! There are SO many hikes to do along the trail. Depending on how long your visit is, you will unfortunately have to pick and choose what you want to do.
A good rule of thumb for hiking in Cape Breton is 2 hikes per day. This will give you enough time to hike before it gets dark, have lunch and take your time driving along the Cabot Trail for photo stops.
Dogs unfortunately are not allowed on the Skyline trail. (Read this post about how to travel around Cape Breton with dogs)
It doesn’t matter which direction you drive on the trail. Both are scenic in either direction.
Bring lots of snacks! We saved money (and time!) by bringing breakfasts to eat in the morning, and snacks for hiking. This allowed us to eat out in a restaurant once a day.
Be careful of the wild life. There are bears, coyote and moose, so it is best to hike with others, and bring either coyote or bear spray with you (can be purchased at Canadian Tire or on Amazon). There are signs at every trail head which will tell you what to do if you encounter an animal.
The AllTrails app is extremely useful for planning hikes. It provides a map of the trail, and will show where you are on the trail. Other people who have completed the trail will share their advice, tips, photos and time it took them to hike.
If you aren’t bringing your own car, then it is recommended to rent a car (or RV!) while traveling around Nova Scotia. If you are beginning your road trip in Halifax, there are 4 rental companies located at the Halifax Airport to choose from.
If you going on a road trip around Nova Scotia, driving to Yarmouth (the most southern point of Nova Scotia) and along the Acadian Shore offers scenic and coastal views along the way. Yarmouth is a colourful town to stop in with lots of cozy cafes, museums and the scenic Cape Forchu Lighthouse. The Acadian Shore has an abundance of beaches, coastlines and Acadian culture to experience. Below I share where to go and what to do on a Nova Scotia Roadtrip to Yarmouth and the Acadian Shore!
Tips and Recommendations for your road trip to Yarmouth Nova Scotia
This is meant to be a guide for places you can see in Yarmouth and along the French Shore on a multi-day road trip around Nova Scotia.
Depending on where you begin and end your road trip, and how long you spend at each location, you can visit these sites in one day. I drove to these sites from my home in the South Shore (about 1.5 hours away from Yarmouth) and it took me the whole day.
It is not recommended to do this as a day trip from Halifax. It takes a long time to drive around Nova Scotia, and Yarmouth is a 3.5 hour drive from Halifax. If you want to visit Yarmouth from Halifax, I recommend exploring the South Shore and spending the night along the way before you begin this road trip.
If you are coming from Maine, USA, the CAT ferry takes you directly to Yarmouth!
What to Do in Yarmouth
Yarmouth is a small and colourful town and can be explored in an afternoon. There are lots of museums and shop to check out.
The most popular place to see is Cape Forchu Lighthouse. The drive to the lighthouse is very scenic, with lots of little beaches to explore along the way.
Once you reach the lighthouse, there is a rose-lined pathway overlooking the ocean that loops around the property, and informational signs explaining the geology of the area. There is also small restaurant at the lighthouse.
Cape Forchu Lighthouse, Yarmouth Nova ScotiaThe colourful houses in downtown YarmouthThe boardwalk along the waterfront in Yarmouth
Where to eat in Yarmouth
Iceworks Dairy and Espresso Bar, 313 Main St., Yarmouth, NS
This cozy cafe offers sushi, ramen, and my personal favourite – bubble tea!
Gaia Global Kitchen, 222 Main St, Yarmouth, NS B5A 1C8
The best place to eat for gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian dishes. The menu has a variety of options from all over the world.
The Shanty Cafe, 6B Central St, Yarmouth, NS B5A 3H1
This is another gluten-free restaurant serving all day breakfasts, burgers, soups and international food.
The Acadian Shore
After you have spent some time exploring Yarmouth, it is now time to continue your roadtrip along the French Shore and up towards Digby. This part of Nova Scotia has a rich Acadian heritage, and has lots of scenic beaches, lighthouses and churches to see along the way.
Port Maitland Beach
This beach was stunning. I have never seen a beach so clean – there was no seaweed washed ashore, and the sand was so white.
This beach has toilets, a changing room and a tap to wash the sand off of your feet.
Mavillette Beach Provincial Park
This was probably one of the most interesting beaches to explore on our Nova Scotia road trip . The cliffs in the distance were really beautiful, and if you walk down the beach there are rock pools with crabs. It was such a long beach that it felt really private too!
Smugglers Cove
This was probably one of my favourite stops on our Nova Scotia Road trip to Yarmouth and the Acadian Shore. There are about 80 steps leading down to this picturesque cove and cave. When the tide is high you can walk down the steps to the viewing platform. We arrived at low tide and were able to walk along the ocean floor.
Église Sainte-Marie Church
The largest wooden church in North America, this truly is a sight to behold. I was in awe at how TALL the steeple is! It was closed when we arrived, but their hours are 9-5 daily between Mid-May and October. Admission is $2.
Gilbert’s Cove Lighthouse
Not too far off the highway is Gilbert’s Cove Lighthouse. There is a little beach next to it, and the views are really beautiful! We even saw some seals while we were there.
Digby
Technically not along the French shore (it is located in the Annapolis Valley), Digby is the final destination on this road trip to Yarmouth Nova Scotia.
Digby is along the Bay of Fundy, and the tides are dramatic. There are lots of shops and restaurants along the waterfront. Make sure to get their famous clams and chips while you are here!
It will probably be much later in day when you arrive, so there won’t be much time to explore the town of Digby during this road trip to Yarmouth. It is recommended to spend the night here so that you can explore it in more depth and travel along the Digby Neck the next day.
During our road trip, we had dinner along the waterfront in Digby before heading back home (our home was about an hour and a half away from Digby).
Places to stay on your Road Trip to Yarmouth Nova Scotia and the Acadian Shore
Have you traveled around Yarmouth and the French Shore? Are there any stops you would recommend visiting on a road trip to Yarmouth Nova Scotia? Let me know in the comments below!
Nova Scotia is known as “Canada’s Ocean Playground”, but it is also a hiker’s dream! There are so many hiking trails in Nova Scotia with different types of landscapes, that the 8 below just scratch the surface.
The 8 hikes below offer interesting, and unique scenery and vary in degrees of length and difficulty. These can only be found in mainland Nova Scotia – Sorry Cape Breton! A separate post about Cape Breton hikes is coming soon, but in the meantime check out this link for Cape Breton hikes.
Difficulty: Easy. Groomed trails, except they become a bit more uneven once you reach Castle Rock.
Dog Info: Suitable for dogs.
Castle Rock is on a groomed, crushed gravel pathway. It is a wooded trail that passes by a river and a lake. Once you reach the top of Castle Rock, there are panoramic views over the forest and bay.
Once you reach the end of the lake, turn right and follow the marked trails. There are 3 marked trails after the lake (ranging from easy, moderate to difficult) that will guide you to the top of Castle Rock. Read more about this epic hike here.
Dog Info: Friendly for dogs, must be on leash once you reach the trails due to drop-off cliffs.
Gaff Point is great hike to do on a warm summer day. It is also a perfect hike if you are visiting Lunenburg for a couple of days!
At the end of Hirtle’s Beach, there is a well-marked trail to hike around the Gaff Point loop. It starts off through wooded forest, and then reaches a lookout point overlooking the ocean. The trail from there is a loop that goes along rocky terrain next to the ocean, and through the forest.
Also, if you can find it – there is the Secret Beach on Gaff Point! Once you reach the cliff lookoff, there is a small footpath off of the main trail.
Hirtle’s BeachGaff PointSecret Beach – there is a narrow, unmarked (but beaten down!) trail off of the main Gaff Point Loop. If you follow it for about 500m you will reach the Secret Beach – as you can see, it requires a bit of climbing to get down!
3. Keji Seaside Adjunct
Address: 1188 St Catherines River Rd, Port Joli, NS B0T 1S0
Length: 8.7 km loop
Difficulty: Easy (well-groomed pathways)
Dog Info: friendly for dogs.
The Keji Seaside Adjunct is a hike that briefly goes through a forest, and then a stretch of open terrain. It then loops around and goes along the ocean. At the end of this loop, there is also a beach to go swimming at. Fun fact, the beach at the end of this trail is the picture on Nova Scotia’s heath card.
Difficulty: Easy (well-groomed trail, a lot of stairs)
Dog Info: friendly for dogs
This is a short hike, but it has a lot of stairs (235 to be exact!). This is mostly in the forest, but once you reach the end of the trail, you can look out at the balancing rock and the ocean.
Dog Info: Suitable for dogs, must be on leash due to drop off cliffs
Duncan’s Cove is a gorgeous hike overlooking the ocean the entire time. Also great to do on a warm summer day! You can’t go swimming here, since there are lots of cliffs.
Dog Info: Suitable for dogs, but must be on leash due to drop off cliffs
Cape Split is a trail that goes though the forest the majority of the time, but at the very end of the hike you are greeted to incredible views of the ocean. It is a very high cliff, and very dangerous so do not go to the edge of the cliffs! Sometimes beaches can be visible, but be aware of the tide times since they come in quickly.
7. Burntcoat Head
Address: 627 Burntcoat Head Road, Noel, NS B0N 2C0
Length: Approx. 1.5 km out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy, however there are no trails since you walk along the ocean floor, and the ground is muddy and slippery
Dog Info: Suitable for dogs
Burntcoat Head is more-so a park, but when the tide is low you can walk along the ocean floor. It is best to be seen when the tide is low, so check the tide times before you go. When the tide is up, there is no where to walk!
Victoria Park has an extensive trail system within a forest. There are lots of well-marked trails to explore with various lengths. Victoria park has two waterfalls, multiple look-offs and Jacob’s Ladder! There is also a park before you go on the trails, where you can have a picnic before or after your hike.
How to Discover New Hiking Trails in Nova Scotia
If you are looking for more trails in Nova Scotia, a really useful app is AllTrails – it shows the location of the trail, reviews, pictures, difficulty and if it is dog-friendly. It isn’t exclusive to Nova Scotia either, so try it out and see if there are any trails in your local area too!
Tips for the hiking trails in Nova Scotia
In the Bay of Fundy area, check the tide times before going on the beach. It’s best to see the tides when they are going down and will be at their lowest. The tides come up quickly and can be dangerous.
Wear hiking shoes
Bring water!
Wear sunscreen
Keep dogs on leash, especially on trails with sudden drop offs that you are not familiar with!
In summer season, ticks come out and can be on the trails. Wear bug spray to prevent ticks (and mosquitoes) from biting you. Check your dogs for ticks after hiking as well.
Have you been to any of these hiking trails in Nova Scotia, or have your own favourite hike that would like to share?
I am always on the hunt for new hikes with beautiful views or interesting landmarks! Let me know in the comments below!
One hour away from the city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada lies two colourful and charming seaside villages: Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Whether you plan to go on a day trip from Halifax, or are passing through during a road trip around Nova Scotia, it is worthwhile to check out these two iconic villages.
How to Get To Mahone Bay & Lunenburg
Rent a car. This is highly recommended! The highways are not difficult, and you can take the “Lighthouse Route”: a scenic drive from Halifax to Lunenburg. If you leave Halifax early in the morning, you can stop at Peggy’s Cove along the way to see the famous lighthouse!
Take the bus. Public transportation is available from Halifax to Mahone Bay and Lunenburg, but it is infrequent and may not work with your schedule. The bus schedule can be found here.
Go on a day trip with a local tour company. This is a convenient way to see each location if you are uncomfortable driving around in a new area.
The best time to visit Mahone Bay and Lunenburg
The best time to visit Lunenburg and Mahone Bay is during Summer and Fall (July – October). The weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with activity.
In September and October, the weather is more cool and the trees start to change colour. It isn’t as busy either. To see the BEST fall foliage, plan to come during the first 2 weeks in October. At the end of September, Mahone Bay hosts the Annual Scarecrow Festival. The entire village of Mahone Bay becomes decorated with scarecrows!
In the winter, A lot of shops close and it can feel like a ghost town.
The Spring months (March – June) are unpredictable. It isn’t unusual to have a snowstorm in April, and rainy weeks in June.
Where to Stay in Mahone Bay and Lunenburg
If you plan to spend the night in either Mahone Bay or Lunenburg, there are plenty of options for where to stay! They are both very small, walk-able towns, so you will always be a short walk away from the main sights. Mahone Bay and Lunenburg are also very safe, so there is no need to worry about booking an accommodation in an unsafe side of town.
Drone view of Lunenburg
Mahone Bay
Mahone Bay is a picturesque village known for their three churches overlooking the bay. It is a perfect place to spend half a day wandering along the waterfront and visiting the local shops that are along Main Street.
Tip: Park in the parking lot across from the three churches and walk around town from there.
The 3 Churches in Mahone Bay – a view from above using a drone
Where to Eat and Drink in Mahone Bay
Joanne’s Market – For artisan sandwiches, locally made baked goods, and fresh produce. Grab a sandwich and have a picnic across the road in front of the three churches, or in their outdoor seating area.
Oh My Cod – Along the waterfront is Oh My Cod, with lots of seafood!
Get the Scoop – For desert, head over to Get the Scoop for homemade ice cream. They offer all sorts of delicious flavours – from traditional vanilla to even lobster. Yes, you read that right – lobster ice cream!
The BarnCoffeehouse – For a cozy, relaxed atmosphere The Barn is the place to go for for good coffee!
The Saltbox – If you prefer something with a bit more kick (i.e: alcohol), the Saltbox has a trendy vibe with an outdoor patio. On Sundays there are live Celtic Music sessions.
Lunenburg
Lunenburg is an UNESCO World Heritage site, and home to the Bluenose II. Fun fact, the Bluenose is on the back of the Canadian 10 cent coin! It is home to artists and artisans alike, and a unique place to visit. Vibrant, colourful buildings are around every corner.
The colourful buildings of Lunenburg
What to Do in Lunenburg
The list below will help give ideas of what to do in Lunenburg on a day trip, or overnight visit.
Go on a Walking Tour (duration: approx 1.5 hours).
Lunenburg offers paid walking tours with fun and interesting commentary about it’s folklore and history. If you are spending the night, the Haunted Lunenburg walk at night is definitely recommended!
The bandstand in Lunenburg
Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic(duration: approx 2-3 hours).
For maritime history and the opportunity to go inside some of the sailboats along the waterfront, the fisheries museum is an interesting place to visit.
Fisheries Museum
See St John’s Anglican Church(duration: 30 minutes).
This church burnt down years ago, and they rebuilt it to look exactly as the original.
St. John’s Anglican Church
Go sailing (duration: 2 hours).
There are lots of different options for sailing in Lunenburg. My favourite is the sunset sail on the Eastern Star. It is very peaceful, and and a perfect, relaxing way to end the day. Sailing on the iconic Bluenose II is another sailing option. The Bluenose departs at various times throughout the day (except at sunset).
The Eastern Star in the Lunenburg Harbour
View of Lunenburg from the Sunset Sail on the Eastern Star
Taste test at the Ironworks Distillery(duration: tours are 45 minutes long).
Marvel at the Lunenburg Academy(duration: 15-30 minutes).
The Lunenburg Academy sitting at the top of Lunenburg is truly a site to behold. The Academy is surrounded by a graveyard, and at night the Academy is lit up and glows. Fun fact, this used to be an elementary school!
Tip: For the BEST view of Lunenburg, drive (or walk!) to the Topmast Motel (right next to the golf course). As you are driving there, there are lots of spots to pull over and take pictures of Lunenburg Harbour.
View of Lunenburg from the Topmast Motel and Golf Course
Where to Eat in Lunenburg
Lunenburg has so many restaurants, that the short answer for where to eat is any of them. They are ALL good. Seriously, it’s so hard to choose! But, I’ll TRY and narrow it down to just a few.
Lightship Brewery – Going to the Lightship Brewery should be considered as one of the main things to do on your day trip to Lunenburg. It has the best postcard-worthy view of Lunenburg.
It is an outdoor patio setting open from spring to fall (limited indoor seating also available). There is a little bit of everything offered: The brewery, another Barn coffeehouse location, and also lots of food options.
During the summer, there are lobster boils, live music, and even outdoor yoga sessions! It’s a great place to go with dogs too.
The view from the patio at the Lightship brewery
Salt ShakerDeli – offering a variety of dishes, the Salt Shaker Deli offers seafood, thin-crust pizzas and views over the Lunenburg Harbour.
Fish Shack – For the best fish and chips in town, lobster rolls, and more seafood! There is an outdoor patio overlooking Lunenburg.
TheGrand Banker – It has delicious food with seafood options, and views of the harbour. Indoor seating only.
Old Fish Factory – It is located in the same building as the Fisheries Museum, and you can sit and eat right on the dock. It is more expensive than the other restaurants listed, but sitting outside on the dock next to the sailboats makes for a great summer vibe.
Lincoln Street Foods – This restaurant has an upscale, modern vibe, with locally sourced food and a changing menu depending on the season. It is also more expensive than the other restaurants listed, but it is an intimate setting perfect for a romantic night out.
Street Art in Lunenburg
What to do in Lunenburg if you have an extra day
Venture out to Blue Rocks(duration: approx 1 hour). On a sunny day, take a 10 minute drive to Blue Rocks and see a classic Nova Scotian maritime fishing village with sweeping views of the ocean. Unfortunately, the rocks aren’t actually blue! In Blue Rocks, you can rent out a kayak and explore the area on the water.
Blue Rocks
Visit the caves and pan for gold at Ovens National Park(duration: approx 2 hours). There is a short hike high up on the cliffs along the ocean where you can look inside the caves. There is a fee to enter.
Hike to the end of Hirtles Beach & around Gaff Point (duration: approx. 4 hours) – At the end of Hirtles Beach is a well-marked trail that goes around the point. Along the trail, you will walk through wooded forests, next to cliffs overlooking the ocean, and on rocky terrain.
I hope that these tips for exploring Mahone Bay and Lunenburg in Nova Scotia, Canada help decide what to do! The South Shore of Nova Scotia is a beautiful area, and Mahone Bay and Lunenburg are two little villages that are worthwhile to visit. It is possible to do it as a day trip, or as a weekend getaway. Have you visited either of these towns, or are planning a trip to Nova Scotia? Let me know in the comments below!
