For decades tourists have flocked to Cape Breton Island for their summer and fall get-aways. Each spring, the fresh leafs are closely followed by new waves of tourists, coming to enjoy the beauty of our island home. They’ve created a well-worn path with very common stops and views. The same photos, stories and memories have been shared time and time again. Walk the Skyline trail, see a moose on Smokey Mtn., lobster dinners in Baddeck, and of course, the people are just so nice.
A new generation of Cape Bretoners have decided we would like to share a few new aspects of what is possible on Unama’ki. There’s much more to do here than to just look at the pretty colours from your car window. We challenge you to get out of your car, get off the beaten track and find your own adventure in the home of our hearts.
With this blog we hope to be your guide in planning your own unique experience. For our inaugural post we thought it would be important to let you know about some of the new tour operators that have popped up on the Cabot Trail in the past few years.
Tube the Margaree River
While the Margaree River is known around the world for its salmon fishing, our earliest memories of the river are floating down it on inner tubes. With access points all along its length, the Margaree River has countless tubing route options. The rush of the upper river’s rapids is balanced with a relaxing drift below Doyle’s bridge. MacLean’s magazine has even quoted our own Prime Minister (the pretty one…), in saying that tubing down the Margaree was one of his favourite experiences in Nova Scotia. It might not be a billionaires tropical island but if it’s good enough for JT, I’m sure we’ll all love it.
http://www.livelifeintents.com
Justin Trudeau's Top 10 favourite swims
Paddle Board w/ CB West SUP
After an amazing first year CB West SUP is back this summer. Jeremy and his team provide 90 and 120min tours as well as hourly board rentals. With the possibility of seeing beavers, eagles, salmon, bass and unrivaled views of the Margaree and Cheticamp rivers this is a tour you shouldn’t miss. Tours can be tailored for all fitness, comfort and experience levels. Stop by and let Jeremy know you’re digging his new silver fox look.
Kayak w/ North River Kayaks
Photo credit - Kali Brocklehurst
After 24 years in business nobody would claim Angelo and his team are new to the tourism game. That being said, there was no way we could write up a list of adventures on the Cabot Trail and not include North River Kayaks. Providing a wide range of tours, the most common option being a 3-hour tour, which provides a waters edge view of the rugged coastline of the Bras D’or lakes. Whether you choose a 3-hour or a 3-day tour, North River Kayaks will provide you with memories worth sharing.
Fly fishing with Jimmie Pedersen – a great day fishing.
Even if you have no experience fly fishing don’t worry, Jimmie’s got you covered. After landing here more than 15 years ago on a short fishing trip, he ‘s still here. Jimmie knows the ebbs and flows of the local rivers and will keep you entertained while you land your new best story. He’s booking up fast so be sure to book early to make sure your fly fishing trip gets you something to hang on the wall.
http://www.agreatdayfishing.com/
Zip Lining w/ Mountain Pine
Located in South Harbour, Mountain Pine Adventures will give you a new perspective on the beauty of Cape Breton. Get up into, and over the canopy with for a new take on the place your grandparents have been telling you about since you were a kid. The owner/operator Terrence also provides back country guided hikes and gourmet meals.
http://mountainpineadventures.com
Shoot Arrows w/ Highland Bow & Arrow
Probably the newest addition to the trail, Highland Bow & Arrow lets us all channel our inner Robin Hood. Located in Wreck Cove and right on the Trail, it’s super easy to find and an amazing activity to add to your trip. Offering a variety of recurved bows for every age group, it’s perfect if you’re travelling with a family or want to show your friends that you could have totally survived in ancient times.
https://www.highlandbowandarrow.ca/
Sun rise and Sunset camping w/ Live Life in Tents
I know, this is our second mention in this post, but it’s our blog, we’re shameless.
Located on a 100 year old family farm and directly behind the Live Life InTents shop, our new camping platforms provide not only jaw dropping sunsets, but also the most amazing sunrise view of the Margaree Valley you can find. Ideally located within walking distance of swimming pools on the Margaree river, a 2 minute drive to the local grocery, and only 10 minutes to the legendary Dancing Goat Café, book your spot now.
*Only available from the start of July 2017 onward.