Cabot Trail & Celtic Shores Bike Tour

Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island in named Canada’s #1 island by Travel & Leisure, and Canada’s best-kept secret by National Geographic. There are many attractions, and this ride shows you the three top ones. First of all, the Cabot Trail is one of the world’s greatest rides; one that all touring cyclists should have on their “must-ride” list! The beautiful coast – the most dramatic in Nova Scotia - meets the breathtaking highlands in ways that make you appreciate both to the fullest. The scenic magnificence of the paved trail can be really savoured and fully appreciated at the speed of your bicycle, while the landscape and the people may demonstrate to you why Nova Scotia’s name means New Scotland.

Secondly, the small town of Inverness now boasts two of the world’s best-rated golf courses, a fabulous long beach, and a unique whisky distillery nestled in the highlands on the way to the musical town of Mabou – home of the renowned Rankin Family, and the inviting Red Shoe Pub. Lastly, the new Celtic Shores Coastal Trail takes you on a traffic-free route along the Mabou River to the coast, then follows the shore, giving you many miles of uninterrupted views over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The road is inland, and the views are all yours.

We begin at a refurbished salmon camp in the valley of the Margaree River, and circumnavigate the northern half of the island on the paved Cabot Trail for five days. If you like golf, you can choose to linger at any of three courses considered among the world’s best - Highland Links, Cabot Links, and Cabot Cliffs. You can also expand your rides onto beautiful wooded trails, or to find swimming holes beneath waterfalls. After completing the Cabot Trail loop, we progress to the traffic-free trail along Cape Breton’s western shore, from the musical highland village of Mabou through Port Hood and Judique along the Celtic Shores trail. Views over the water become frequent and magnificent as you approach the Canso Causeway. The cycling, although manageable by most cyclists (and van-supported for the rest!) includes some challenging sections – especially on day three with two 1400ft climbs. Combining such awe-inspiring scenery and out-of–the-way charm with comfortable inns and exceptional cuisine makes this ride an exquisite experience you simply have to add to your list!