CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Sandwiched between the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean and bordered by the magnificent Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a succession of spectacular panoramas, among the most beautiful in the country. Its forests, streams, lakes and vast central plateau form a unique ensemble. In winter, the coasts are locked in frozen waters and the hiking trails become cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Just at the edge of the park, typical fishing villages decorate the route and allow to get supplies. Created in 1936, the park covers 950 km² of wilderness where moose, deer, lynx, beaver, black bear and bald eagle live together. The lakes and streams of the park are frequented by speckled trout, Atlantic salmon, alewife and a few other freshwater species, while the waters of the Gulf and the ocean are home to Atlantic cod, various sharks (blue, basking) and marine mammals such as minke whales and harbour seals. If the west coast is bathed by the relatively calm waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the east coast, on the other hand, is subjected to the repeated assaults of the ocean. Numerous lookouts are available for an exceptional panorama. Note that while the national park is accessible year-round, the Cheticamp and Ingonish visitor centers are open from mid-May to the end of October. Full service is available in July and August. Plan to spend at least one day in the park.

Activities. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, cycling and golfing. It also organizes special activities such as lantern-lit hikes or a local meal on the beach with stories and tales. Several adventure tourism companies also operate tours in the park or in the waters of the Gulf (long hikes, sea kayaking, etc.).

Lodging. You can find accommodations at the park gates in Cheticamp, Ingonish, St. Ann's or Baddeck. It is strongly recommended that you book your room well in advance, as the park is very crowded, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the park. You can also stay on site, either camping or in an oTENTik tent.