Cabot Trail: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour
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Cabot Trail: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour

Active
(118 reviews)
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hook your smartphone up to your vehicle's stereo and listen to a tour guide while you drive!

Follow the famous Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic roadways in the world! It’s actually a big loop. We’ll be traveling counter-clockwise around it in order to get the best views.

The Cabot Trail runs 298 kms, or 185 miles, long but there are plenty of stops along the way. You can take in the view, shop for one-of-a-kind crafts, hike, golf on some of Canada’s best courses, go on a whale watching adventure or simply indulge your taste for freshly caught lobster.

With no time constraints, enjoy the freedom to stop anywhere and explore. Tour guide commentary plays automatically as you drive, using an easy to navigate live GPS map. No data is used during the tour.

This audio guide will keep your group entertained & engaged along the way. Each point of interest also has a fun multiple-choice trivia question about the sights.

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Available options

Cabot Trail

What's included

No time constraints, take as long as you like to complete the tour
Only 1 tour booking needed per vehicle
Flexible dates - tour is yours to keep and enjoy anytime on Tripvia Tours.
No signal required or data used during tour
Good mobile or WiFi connection needed for the initial download
Email confirmation with getting started instructions

Detailed itinerary

1

You’ll catch glimpses of Bras d’Or Lake, a 90 km long body of water composed of three long fingers that stretch into northern Cape Breton.

2

Hear Alexander Graham Bell tell you why he has a museum dedicated to him! You can even visit the National Historic Site and Museum which is close by.

3

We'll tell you the history of the Plaister Mines and what they were mining.

4

We'll tell you how the Scots made a major impact in Cape Breton and how they came about being here.

5

One of the prettiest spots along this section of the trail where several brooks join to flow into the cove. If waterfalls are your thing, there are several beautiful ones along Goose Cove Brook that are easily accessible.

6

The North River Wilderness Area protects more than 5,000 hectares or 12000 acres of highland plateau and rugged river valley and offers a number of trails for all levels.

7

If you are looking to stretch your legs there are several easy trails or if you just want to browse some shops this is a great spot.

8

PLASTER PROVINCIAL PARK: As we drive along the edge of the park we’re going to tell you some interesting facts about the park itself and the area you will see around you.

9

You'll hear about one of the largest and the most rugged of all the protected areas in Nova Scotia.

10

A famous stop along the Trail. In business since 1976 they offer everything you need for a road trip including their legendary lobster sandwiches!

11

There is a pull off on your ascent to Cape Smokey where you can pause for a panoramic ocean view before you head up to the top.

12

On top of Smokey Mountain you’ll find the entrance to the Cape Smokey Picnic Park where you’ll find picnic tables, flush toilets and scenic lookouts.

13

The Ingonish community actually consists of five villages and stands at the gates to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a famous tourist stop with beautiful fresh and salt water beaches.

14

Hear how the two harbours of Ingonish benefited the Mi'kmaq over 9000 years ago and continues to benefit residents and tourists today.

15

TRAILS, WHALES, GOLF & GOATS. There’s so much to see and do along this stretch of the Cabot trail...we'll give you a rundown!

16

If you like camping, hiking, beaches or waterfalls, you are spoiled for choice here. We'll give you some of the details!

17

It’s been said the park is where the mountains meet the sea. Glaciers and rivers carved the landscape, creating a unique ecosystem that includes animals found nowhere else in Nova Scotia.

18

There are many interesting communities above the park that are also worth a visit if you have the time. One of these is the tiny fishing village of Neils Harbour. With only 300 people in residence, it’s a popular summer tourist spot.

19

A TALE OF THREE CONTINENTS: The land around us is called the Bras d’Or terrane. We'll tell you a bit about the surrounding geology and its history.

20

If you like beaches you’ll like Aspy Bay. A beautiful red sand bar protects the large South and North Aspy Bays.

21

You'll hear about the vast and rugged wilderness called the Polletts Cove – Aspy Fault Wilderness area that marks the collision of the three continental plates.

22

If you’d like to visit the most accessible waterfalls in the park, it's just a couple of kilometers and a short walk leading to a truly pretty waterfall. Don't worry, we give you easy directions.

23

The plateaus are the northern tip of the Appalachian Mountains of eastern North America. You’ll notice look offs on the side of road, one which gives the best views of the giant fault line cutting through the highland plateaus.

24

The Lone Shieling is a replica of an old Scottish crofter’s hut that is just a magical 15 minute walk through old sugar maples. Once there interpretive panels tell its story.

25

The MacIntosh Brook trail is a delightful thirty minute walk suitable for the whole family including the dog! The path follows a babbling brook to a lovely woodland waterfall at the end.

26

Pleasant Bay is the whale watching capital of Cape Breton!!

27

This look off provides an amazing view of the Gulf of St Lawrence. It’s a good place to stop and catch your breath.

28

The lookoff at the entrance to Fishing Cove Trail will give you a beautiful view of mountain headlands swooping down to the ocean.

29

Moose in Cape Breton have an interesting history. This is a popular spot for these giant beasties who like to munch on forest herbs and aquatic plants in the lake.

30

There’s a pull off at French Lake that gives you a lovely view of a highland lake surrounded by Boreal forest.

31

If you’ve seen postcards of the Cabot Trail it’s likely the photos were taken from the end of the Skyline trail. The headland cliff is famous for its dramatic views of the Cabot Trail as it winds along French Mountain. It’s a well-groomed path that’s rated an easy walk.

32

This trail is unique in that it’s a walk through history. At one time 30 Acadian families lived here. Many were refugees of the great expulsion of 1755 in Nova Scotia.

33

Le Buttereau, French for “little hill” is where at one time seven Acadian families lived here. We'll tell you a bit about the Acadian settlers here.

34

The Cheticamp River marks the western entrance of the National Park which has a campground and four nearby trails. One of these is le chemin du Buttereau.

35

Here you'll see an arm of gravel and sand as it sweeps from the red bluffs of Buttereau across the tidal estuary almost cutting the river off from the sea.

36

Welcome to one of the Acadian capitals of the world! It’s a popular tourist town with whale watching, a museum, several restaurants and an excellent golf course.

37

If you’d like to lounge on a nice sandy beach for a while then the Plage St. Pierre beach and campground on Cheticamp Island is for you!

38

Learn about the Acadian tradition of Mi-careme and if you have the time visit the Centre de la Mi-careme and make your own mask.

39

As we travel south the landscape flattens out for a great view of the Gulf of St Lawrence. The sea along the coast here is a rich marine environment known as the Cape Breton Trough.

40

The English translation for Belle Cote is beautiful coast, and if you take a detour on Belle Cote Beach Road to the shoreline you’ll know how the area got its name.

41

When you cross the bridge over the Margaree Harbour you might think this was a lake, and not a river. At almost a kilometer or half mile wide this is the Margaree River estuary.

42

The bridges at the East Margeree Crossing will give you an excellent view of how the river winds along the valley floor and you might even see a fisher in waders, casting out a line in the shallows.

43

The hills around here are Appalachian, the same Appalachian Mountain range that extends all the way from Florida to Newfoundland.

44

Are you ready to get wet! If you are, then a tour with Live Life in Tents River Tours just might be for you. They offer unique camping from the primitive to a luxurious glamping experience. Oh and tours through the rapids of course!

45

Here you'll find the Margaree Salmon Museum and not far the Margaree Fish Hatchery. Talk about an angler's dream!

46

From a pretty picnic park that runs alongside the road, you can take in the view of the low mountains across the lake....a beautiful and romantic backdrop.

47

There's an old mine is located in the hills of the wilderness area just beyond the fields. You'll have the chance to guess what was mined there!

48

Here you'll find two unique churches stand side by side. With white clapboard and grey spires they look like fraternal twins who’ve decided to dress alike. We'll tell you how that came to be.

What's not included

Smartphone or tablet
Transportation (use your own vehicle)
**Recommended attractions may be closed/inaccessible due to season or reasons beyond our control.

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
48 reviews
5★
32
4★
11
3★
2
2★
3
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.3
70 reviews
5★
43
4★
15
3★
5
2★
2
1★
5

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible

Meeting point

The tour starts and ends at Buckwheat Corner at the intersection of Cabot Trail Road and the Trans Canada Highway.

Important notes

Thanks for booking the Cabot Trail Smartphone Audio Tour!!

**HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE TRIPVIA TOURS APP & START THE TOUR**
Tour Code - CABT68
1. Download and install the Tripvia Tours app (look for the logo with the multi-coloured letters). If you're reading this on your phone, tap on this link www.onelink.to/tripvia.
2. Open the app and find the tour you booked
3. Enter tour code CABT68.
4. Tap 'download tour', ​ ​***It is very important to ensure you have a good Wi-Fi or mobile data connection for the download process.
5. Follow the tutorial before leaving for your tour to learn how the app works.
6. Enjoy your tour!

Help → info@tripvia.tours | 1-866-874-7842

About Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Island, known as Unama'ki in the Mi'kmaq language, is a breathtaking island in Nova Scotia, Canada, renowned for its rugged coastal scenery, rich Celtic heritage, and the famous Cabot Trail. The island offers a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Cabot Trail

A scenic drive and hiking trail that circles the northern tip of Cape Breton Island, offering stunning views of the highlands, coastline, and forests.

Nature 1-3 days Free (parking fees may apply)

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

A reconstructed 18th-century French fortress offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past with costumed interpreters and interactive exhibits.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate

Baddeck

A charming village on Bras d'Or Lake known for its Celtic heritage, Alexander Graham Bell Museum, and scenic beauty.

Cultural Half-day to full day Free to explore, museum fees apply

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Dinner

Freshly caught lobster served with butter, potatoes, and vegetables.

Dinner Contains shellfish

Cape Breton Fudge

A rich, creamy fudge made with local ingredients.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking the Cabot Trail Kayaking on Bras d'Or Lake Whale watching Beach relaxation at Ingonish Spa day at Keltic Lodge Resort Scenic drives Visiting the Fortress of Louisbourg Attending Celtic music festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to September

The peak season offers warm weather, long daylight hours, and the best conditions for outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to explore the Cabot Trail, enjoy festivals, and experience the island's vibrant culture.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: French, Mi'kmaq
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cape Breton is generally safe with low crime rates, but travelers should take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Be cautious when driving on narrow, winding roads
  • • Stay informed about weather conditions

Getting there

By air
  • Cape Breton Regional Airport • 20 km from Sydney
By train

Sydney Station

By bus

Sydney, Port Hawkesbury

Getting around

Public transport

Public bus service is available but limited. Taxis and rental cars are more convenient for exploring the island.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber is not available, but local taxi services are reliable

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Sydney Baddeck

Day trips

Louisbourg
15 km from Sydney • Half day to full day

Explore the Fortress of Louisbourg and the historic town with its museums and local shops.

Ingonish
50 km from Baddeck • Full day

A scenic area known for its beaches, hiking trails, and the Keltic Lodge Resort.

Festivals

Celtic Colours International Festival • Early to mid-October Big Fiddle Festival • Late August

Pro tips

  • Explore the Cabot Trail early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
  • Try local seafood, especially lobster and scallops, for an authentic taste of Cape Breton.
  • Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum to learn about the island's connection to the famous inventor.
  • Attend a ceilidh (Celtic gathering) for a unique cultural experience with traditional music and dance.
  • Drive the Cabot Trail in the fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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