Cape Breton Highlands National Park - Discovering Canada

Travelling to Cape Breton Highlands National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a pretty good destination in Canada (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cape Breton Highlands National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Canada, here's everything to know about Cape Breton Highlands National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a beautiful national park located in the northern part of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. The park covers an area of over 950 square kilometers and is characterized by its stunning landscapes, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife. The park features a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping, swimming, and wildlife watching. Some of the park's most popular attractions include the Cabot Trail, the Skyline Trail, and the Cheticamp River. The park is also home to the Cape Breton Highlands, a scenic mountain range that offers visitors breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding coastline.

What to visit in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Sure, below are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada: 1. Skyline Trail: This is one of the must-see attractions in the park. It is a 9.2-kilometer hiking trail that takes visitors along the rugged coastline with stunning views of the Gulf of St Lawrence. It is also home to moose that can often be seen grazing in the area.
2. Cabot Trail: This scenic drive is considered one of the most beautiful in North America. It takes visitors around the perimeter of the park with stunning views of the highlands, oceans, and forests.
3. Cape Breton Highlands Trail: This hiking trail is 29.3 kilometers long and boasts scenic views from the highlands to the ocean. It is a challenging trail suitable for experienced hikers.
4. Benjies Lake Trail: This easy hiking trail is just 1.2 kilometers long, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding highlands. It is suitable for all ages and levels of hikers.
5. Fishing: There are several areas within the park where visitors can fish for Atlantic salmon or trout. Some popular spots include Middle Head, MacIntosh Brook, and Warren Lake.
6. Beaches: There are several beaches within the park, including Ingonish Beach, Black Brook Beach, and Broad Cove Beach. These are great spots for swimming or just relaxing on the sand.
7. Wildlife: Visitors to the park will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, lynx, black bears, bald eagles, and seals.
8. Gampo Abbey: This Buddhist monastery is located just outside the park and welcomes visitors for tours and meditation sessions.
These are just some of the many attractions within Cape Breton Highlands National Park that visitors can enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Canada, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The best time to visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada depends on the activities you are interested in and your personal preferences. If you enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and the trails are open. During this time, you can also enjoy various festivals and events in the area, such as the Celtic Colours International Festival in October.
If you prefer a quieter and cooler environment, then the fall (September to November) is a great time to visit as the trees turn into stunning shades of red and gold. This is also a great time to see wildlife such as moose, bears, and whales.
Winter (December to March) is ideal for winter sports lovers as the park offers opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing. It is also a great time to see the Northern Lights.
It's important to note that the park is closed during the winter months (late October to mid-May), so plan your trip accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cape Breton Highlands National Park

There are a few ways to get to Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada. Here are some options: 1. By Car: If you are driving, there are multiple routes you can take depending on your starting location. From Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, you can take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 104) and then take the Cabot Trail to reach the park. The drive takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. 2. By Bus: If you prefer to take the bus, there are various options available. Acadian Bus Lines, Maritime Bus, and Greyhound Canada all have routes that will take you to the park from Halifax and other cities in Nova Scotia.
3. By Plane: The closest airport to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport, which is about 80 km away from the park. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach the park.
No matter how you choose to get there, be sure to check the weather conditions and road closures in advance, especially during the winter months where the weather can be unpredictable.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Here are some typical foods of Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada: 1. Lobster Roll - A sandwich filled with fresh lobster meat, mayonnaise, and lemon juice served on a hot dog bun. Lobster from the Atlantic Ocean is a specialty in Cape Breton.
2. Poutine - One of the most iconic Canadian dishes. It consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. The perfect snack on a chilly day.
3. Wild blueberries - Wild blueberries from Cape Breton are famous for their sweetness and nutritional value. You can enjoy them as a fresh snack or in a variety of baked goodies.
4. Fish and chips - The Cape Breton coastline is rich in fish species, and fish and chips is a staple meal. The dish typically consists of battered and deep-fried fish served with French fries.
5. Rappie pie - A traditional Nova Scotian dish that originated in Cape Breton. It is made from grated potatoes, meat, and onions to make a hearty savory pie.
6. Seafood chowder - A hearty soup made with various seafood, including lobster, clams, and mussels. It's a warm and comforting dish usually enjoyed in the cooler months.
7. Donair - It's a meat sandwich made from sliced meat and a sweet-sauce and served on pita bread. It is a popular fast-food item and originated in Eastern Canada.
These are just a few of the delicious food options available in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
You can find general info about typical foods in Canada here.

Is Cape Breton Highlands National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Cape Breton Highlands National Park can be a pricey destination for tourists due to high travel and accommodation costs, especially during peak season (July-August). However, the cost largely depends on the type of accommodation and activities you choose. There are several campsites available in the park that are relatively inexpensive, and visitors can also opt for budget-friendly activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and beachcombing. However, if you're looking for more luxurious accommodations or activities like guided tours or whale watching expeditions, then you should expect to pay more. Overall, budget planning and research can help you manage the costs effectively and make the most of your trip to Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Where to find accomodation in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The Cape Breton Highlands National Park surrounds a large part of the northern coast of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. Some areas that are convenient for finding accommodation to visit the park are: - Chéticamp: a small coastal town located just outside the western entrance of the park, offering various accommodation options such as hotels, motels and vacation rentals.
- Ingonish: a village located near the eastern entrance of the park, with accommodation options such as hotels, motels, cabins and campgrounds.
- Baddeck: a town located south of the park, offering a wider range of accommodation options such as hotels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Keep in mind that the park is quite vast and there are other towns and areas where you can find accommodation and still be within driving distance of the park.
You can check hotel prices at Cape Breton Highlands National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Cape Breton Highlands National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. The park is well-maintained, has proper security measures in place, and the local authorities regularly patrol the area to ensure visitor safety. However, it is always wise to take basic safety precautions and stay within designated trails and visitor areas, especially when hiking or camping. It is also a good idea to check weather and trail conditions before setting out to enjoy the park's rugged landscapes.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Canada here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cape Breton Highlands National Park the most?

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a great destination for all types of travelers, but it is especially popular with nature lovers and those seeking outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, whale watching, fishing, and beachcombing. The park offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, making it suitable for walkers and hikers of all ages and abilities. Families with children will enjoy exploring the park's beaches, picnic areas, and playgrounds, while couples may find the park's scenic lookouts and romantic waterfall walks especially appealing.
Additionally, younger people looking for fun can partake in adventure activities like mountain biking and sea kayaking, which provide an adrenaline rush while taking in breathtaking views of the park's mountain and ocean vistas. Overall, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience Canada's natural beauty and outdoor adventure activities.

How to get around Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The two main transportation options for moving around Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Canada are by car or by hiking/trail walking. There are several scenic driving routes within the park that offer picturesque views of the ocean and mountains. Additionally, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer opportunities to see wildlife and natural beauty up close. Visitors can choose to bring their own vehicle or rent a car from nearby towns. If hiking, it’s important to bring proper gear and be aware of the weather and trail conditions.

What to see around Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Sure, here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Cape Breton Highlands National Park: 1. Fortress of Louisbourg: This historical fortress is located about an hour from Cape Breton Highlands National Park and is a unique place to explore the history of France and Canada.
2. Baddeck: Located about an hour and a half from the park, Baddeck is a picturesque village that is situated on the beautiful Bras d'Or Lake. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore here, including the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.
3. Inverness Beach: This stunning beach is located about 30 minutes from the park and is a great place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas in the surrounding area.
4. Chéticamp: This charming fishing village is located about 45 minutes from the park and is known for its vibrant Acadian culture. Be sure to check out the local craft shops and restaurants, as well as the Les Trois Pignons museum.
5. Margaree Harbour: This quaint fishing village is located about 30 minutes from the park and is a great place to go whale watching or take a sunset hike. The nearby Margaree River is also known for its excellent salmon fishing.
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