7 Day Scenic Cape Breton Self-Drive

Depart Halifax and drive north via Truro to the historic town of Pictou, known as the birthplace of New Scotland. It was here that the province's first Scottish Highlanders landed on the ship ‘Hector’ in 1773. Pictou boasts an award-winning waterfront development that includes the Hector Heritage Quay, where a full scale replica of the Hector has been built using traditional ship building techniques.

Depart Pictou and continue to Cape Breton via the Canso Causeway and onto Baddeck. This scenic village overlooks the beautiful Bras d'Or Lakes and the most notable resident historically was Alexander Graham Bell. You can visit the national historic site named after him.

Depart Baddeck and take time to explore the western shore of Cape Breton Island along the Ceilidh Trail, an extension of the world famous Cabot Trail. Highlights include the provincial parks at Long Point and Port Hood and Margaree Harbour, where you can take a nature cruise of the area. In the afternoon drive to Cheticamp and enjoy a whale watching tour before returning to Baddeck.

Today is spent at leisure in the Baddeck area. Explore the region on your own.

Depart Baddeck and continue to explore Cape Breton Island. Continue on towards Sydney & Glace Bay. Take time to visit the Miners Museum and Marconi National Historic Site. From Glace Bay follow the Marconi Trail to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest historical reconstruction in North America and the town of Louisbourg. Hear the cannons and muskets fire, watch the changing of the guard and meet the villagers at this meticulously preserved and recreated French fortification of over 250 years ago.

Depart Louisbourg and continue onto Canso Causeway. From here you will drive along the Eastern Shore and follow the Marine Drive Route where you will find nature, history and culture, as well as rugged coasts, tranquil bays and beaches, unspoiled forest fauna and crystal clear lakes and streams. Continue back to Halifax.