Why is Nova Scotia the Perfect Destination for a Self-Guided Adventure?

Story by: Matt Thompson | February 25, 2020

Category: Canada, North America

For travelers who crave freedom and adventure, a region that lends itself particularly well to the Self-Guided experience is Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island. Dotted with pine-covered mountains and spectacular cliffside views, this beautiful area offers walkers a unique blend of cool maritime climate and Acadian forest habitats. Country Walkers Travel Manager Amy Brusa recently spoke of her and her family’s joyful experience on the Self-Guided Nova Scotia: Cape Breton Island tour.

“Having your own car really allows you to do whatever you want, when you want,” says Amy. “We could take our time getting ready, linger over breakfast, and make our way along the route to hike when the rains let up mid-morning.”

Country Walkers provides travelers with a comprehensive Route Notes booklet that provides turn-by-turn directions to trailheads and key sights. “Following the driving directions with car and phone GPS is super easy,” according to Amy. “There are also notes about a few short detours off the main route to explore more —you can’t get lost!”

The County Walkers Self-Guided experience doesn’t just free your group from the confines of conventional guided tours, but also allows for flexibility within your travel party. As Amy illustrates,

“I was traveling with my family, so when my daughter and I wanted to stop at a few local craft shops we took the car while my husband and son stayed back at the Inn and relaxed.”

The Cape Breton Island tour features hiking trails with countless noteworthy coastal views. “There’s an expansive view from the Skyline Trail, and the White Point Trail, which skirts along the cliffs,” said Amy. “Both of the mountain hikes—Acadian Trail and Franey Mountain—reward walkers with awesome ocean views from the top. You’ll even find fun red Adirondack chairs that offer a chance to sit and take it all in.”

Country Walkers’ Route Notes also highlight key elements of Nova Scotia’s diverse culture. “There are plenty of opportunities to see live, traditional, Cape Breton-based Gaelic music,” according to Amy,

“A surprise for me was the amazing number of artisans on Cape Breton. The Route Notes booklet highlights several craft shops, but there was so much variety—hooked rugs, paintings, pottery, sculpture, mixed medium—there’s such tremendous diversity to be seen and experienced everywhere on this small island!”

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Why is Nova Scotia the Perfect Destination for a Self-Guided Adventure?

Learn more about our Nova Scotia: Cape Breton Island Self-Guided Adventure.