CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Caught between the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and those of the Atlantic Ocean, bordered by the magnificent Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a succession of spectacular panoramas, some of the finest in the country. Its forests, streams, lakes and vast central plateau form a unique whole. In winter, the coasts are locked in frozen water, and hiking trails become cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Right on the edge of the park, typical fishing villages dot the trail and provide a place to stock up on supplies. Created in 1936, the park covers 950 km² of wilderness, home to moose, deer, lynx, beaver, black bear and bald eagle. The park's lakes and streams are home to speckled trout, Atlantic salmon, alewife and other freshwater species, while the Gulf and ocean waters are home to Atlantic cod, various sharks (blue, basking) and marine mammals such as minke whales and harbor seals. While the west coast is bathed by the relatively calm waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the east coast is subject to the repeated assaults of the ocean. Numerous lookouts offer exceptional panoramic views. While the national park is accessible year-round, the visitor centers in Chéticamp and Ingonish are open from mid-May to the end of October (full service in summer). Ideally, you should plan to spend three to five days in the park, dividing your stay between Cheticamp and Ingonish.

Activities. The park offers a multitude of activities, including hiking (26 trails in all), camping, swimming, fishing, cycling and golf. It also organizes special activities such as guided sunset hikes and painting evenings in the park. Several adventure tourism companies also operate tours in the park or in the waters of the Gulf (long hikes, sea kayaking, etc.).

Accommodation. You can find accommodation at the park gates in Chéticamp, Ingonish, St. Ann's or Baddeck. We strongly advise you to book your room well in advance, as the park is very busy, especially at the height of the summer tourist season. You can also stay on site, camping or in an oTENTik ready-to-camp tent.