Our Top Picks
I’m a Cape Bretoner born and raised, and I love my island. During my years here I’ve explored and discovered many precious gems that I’m happy to share with you! I can help you plan your days - whether you are looking for the best kept secret beaches, the right hiking trail for your experience level, hidden waterfalls, the prettiest coastal drives, or the freshest seafood on the east coast. Below are the best no-cost options nearby; our picks for paid excursions are here.
Hiking Trails
Cape Breton is full of gorgeous scenery. Sure, you could drive it, but hiking puts you into the centre of it all. Feel the wind, hear the wildlife, touch the sky - and try one of these trails!
Skyline Trail
The Cabot Trail’s iconic views on foot. Cornerstone and must-see vista! Can be crowded, but it’s worth it. You might see a moose on the way!
Gypsum Mines
Once a major industry in Cheticamp, now taken back by nature and traversable as a trail through a water oasis in the middle of the back hills. Popular for swimming and picnicking.
Coxheath Hills
Purchased by a community group to preserve the land, this trail is a mid-level challenge climb to a panoramic view of Cape Breton County and Industrial Cape Breton. Keep an eye out for the small cabin to get out of the elements and take a break.
Lighthouses
We're a Maritime province, and it shows. Lighthouses are a relic from a simpler time, capturing your imagination and invariably, overlooking a breathtaking ocean view.
Louisbourg
The site of the oldest lighthouse in Canada, this is the third structure to be built on this location. It’s a guiding light into the busy fishing harbour and overlooks the Fortress of Louisbourg. The beginning to an amazing accessible trail.
Gabarus
Quaint little lighthouse on the eastern end of the island, the only hexagonal lighthouse in the Maritimes! Recently moved to save it from coastal erosion by a community group led by a CBU community economic development project.
Low Point
On a part of the island most people don't think to visit, this little lighthouse is a well-kept secret outside of New Waterford in Industrial Cape Breton. Worth the trip through our communities to see!
Waterfalls
Cape Breton is part of the Appalachian mountain chain, which means we're ancient, low-lying, and rugged. The landscape is littered with waterways. Below are some of the more accessible waterfall trails!
Uisge Ban
TGaelic for “white water” and pronounced “ushga ban”, these falls are part of a provincial trail. Two and a half kilometres of hiking will bring you into the fresh mist.
Eygpt Falls
Two tiered waterfall, nestled in the valley in the back hills of Lake Ainslie.
North River
The tallest waterfall in Nova Scotia at about 100FT, an amazing full day walk at 19km return. Well worth the trek, but not for the casual hiker!
Sea Glass Hunting
Centuries of maritime history means our island is littered with beach glass. Originally trash rounded by the waves and etched by the ocean's pH levels, sea glass is a glittering gem you can find on nearly any of our beaches if you just look down!
Indian Beach
Beautiful little walk directly off the road. Great parking lot and an easy stroll where you might find sand dollars, beach glass, and shells. Benches, a food stand, and washrooms on site.
Florence Beach
It’s a little tough to find but we can get you there! Sandy and sheltered, its hidden nature means you’ll likely find some seaglass all of your own.
Lockman's Beach
Pretty little secret in Sydney Mines, a community not far from our front door.