The largest island in Nova Scotia, Cape Breton has a wild beauty and grandeur that makes for some of the most impressive scenery in Canada. From the rolling highlands, sprinkled with sparkling streams, to fine sandy beaches, the island’s 300-km (200-mile) Cabot Trail provides one of the most memorable tours in Canada. Other inviting country roads lead to the stunning Mabou Hills, surrounding Lake Ainslee, and to romantic little towns including Baddeck and the Acadian settlement of Cheticamp near the green Margaree Valley.

 

Baddeck

Across the lake from the estate of Alexander Graham Bell, who loved the little town, Baddeck lies in rich farmland and is very much the island’s premier resort destination. Set on the northwest side of Bras d’Or Lake, Baddeck is still the small, friendly town that charmed visitors in the 19^th century. All amenities are within walking distance. The town’s main street follows the waterfront and is lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Boat cruises around the lake are available from several places on Water Street by the shore.

The town’s top attraction is the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. The museum here contains the world’s largest collection of photographs, artifacts, and documents about the life of this famous humanitarian and inventor. There are early telephones and several of his later inventions, including a copy of his HD-4 Hydrofoil.

 

Attractions:

Baddeck

Chebucto St. (902) 295 1911.

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

559 Chebucto St.

Tel: (902) 2952069.

 

Margaree River Valley

Small and emerald green, the Margaree River Valley is in a delightful world of its own. The river has attracted salmon and trout anglers in large numbers since the mid-19th century. Today the region is also a favorite with hikers, antique hunters, and sightseers.

In the little town of North East Margaree, the tiny but elegant Margaree Salmon Museum will fascinate even non-anglers with its beautiful historic rods and reels.

Paved and gravel roads follow the Margaree River upstream to the scenic spot of Big Intervale, where the headwaters come tumbling out of the highlands. This area is ideal for a long hike, fishing, or cycling, and is dazzling when the hillsides are carpeted in the flaming colors of fall.

 

Attractions:

Margaree Valley

Margaree Fork

Tel: (902) 248 2803.

 

Margaree Salmon Museum

60 E. Big Interval Rd.

(902) 248 2848.