Nova Scotia: A Bike Tour on the Cabot Trail, Canada

This 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 and the scenic magnificence of the paved trail can be really savoured and fully appreciated at the speed of your bicycle. The landscape and the people may demonstrate to you why Nova Scotia’s name means New Scotland. You will have opportunities to explore the valley of the Margaree River, rich with salmon and its pursuit, to watch whales from a zodiac that gets you up close, to play golf on the famous Highland Links, and on some days to expand your rides onto beautiful wooded trails, all while staying at inns famous for their individuality and charm.

Many find the highlight a ride through beech woods to salmon pools, where salmon sometimes leap on their way upstream, and you can swim in deep pools below clear waterfalls. The cycling, although manageable by most cyclists (and van-supported for the rest!) includes some challenging sections. Combining such awe-inspiring scenery, out-of–the-way charm, unusual inns, exceptional cuisine, and particularly friendly locals makes this loop ride an exquisite experience you simply must have!

Itinerary:
Day 1: Meet in Baddeck at 17:00.
Optional transfer available from Halifax. Evening entertainment and dinner may include live music as an introduction to the unique culture of Cape Breton Island. (Meal inclusions provided for guided trips only). Silver Dart Lodge; or Inverary Resort, Baddeck. (D)

Day 2: 45 km/28 miles, plus afternoon options.
Begin cycling at about 09:00, riding over Hunter’s Mountain (500 ft) and along Middle River Valley to enjoy a beautiful outdoor picnic at Lake O'Law. Afternoon options include fishing, finding swimming holes, and wonderful cycling on both paved and gravel roads (very quiet) to remote locations along the Margaree River Valley. Normaway Inn, Northeast Margaree. (B)(L)(D)

Day 3: 53 km/33 miles, plus afternoon options.
Ride down the East side of Margaree River valley to the ocean, and then follow the shore through the Acadian region to Cheticamp. After an independent lunch, options include cycling forays into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, whale-watching by zodiac, shopping, and hiking or off-road cycling to the salmon pools. For your independent dinner, choose from several options along the Cheticamp waterfront. Pilot Whale Chalets, Cheticamp. (B)

Day 4: 71 km/44 miles.
Today is a challenging day of cycling through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You will climb two 'mountains' of about 1400 feet, breaking for lunch between them. The scenery is awe-inspiring, the ascents are long, and the descents... ahh, the descents! If only they'd go on forever. Markland Inn, Dingwall; or Four Mile Beach Inn, Aspy Bay.
(B)(L)(D)

Day 5: 58 km/36 miles.
Optional extra 48 km/30 miles to NE tip of NS at Meat Cove. Cycle the scenic route between Cape North and Neil's Harbour, stopping for a short hike at spectacular White Point, where eagles often soar over spouting whales. Options include swimming holes, waterfalls, beaches, and golf on the Highland Links. Keltic Lodge; or Castlerock Inn, Ingonish Beach. (B)(D)

Day 6: 60-79 km/38-50 miles.
A long, undulating ride along the East Coast follows your initial climb over Cape Smokey (950'). Enjoy a picnic feast at Indian Brook or an interesting café in the middle of nowhere, and finish with a ride to Baddeck, or a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. Bell's airplane, the Silver Dart, was airborne about the same time as the Kitty Hawk. Rendezvous by approximately 15:00 at the Museum for farewells and the optional transfer to Halifax, which arrives by about 21:00. (B)(L)

Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.

Guided Cost: $1995 per person
Price Includes:
- 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
- luggage handling
- van and guide support
- maps and route notes

Self-Guided Cost: $1795 per person
Price Includes:
- 4 breakfasts
- luggage handling and daily contact with your driver for lifts
- maps and route notes

Self-Supported Cost: $1125 per person
Price Includes:
- 4 breakfasts
- maps and route notes

Bike rentals available with Halifax pickup, or with delivery charge. Single Occupancy: $525.