A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Exploring Unique Cape Breton.

Wow, I just returned from my trip across the beautiful landscapes of Cape Breton, and I’m thrilled to share with you A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Exploring Unique Cape Breton!

My journey began in Halifax, where I spent a cozy night at the Sutton Hotel, enjoying a room with a stunning view of Citadel Hill. This hotel, with its spacious rooms and easy access to nearby restaurants and the convention center, was the perfect launchpad for my solo adventure. Naturally, Halifax’s waterfront pulled me in; the vibrant wharf keeps improving and is always a top pick for a peaceful solo stroll.

Of course, no stop in Halifax is complete without a visit to Citadel Hill. This Parks Canada National Historic Site provides a fantastic vantage point for photography, with sweeping city views. I chose to walk up the hill, though a bus option is also available. From there, I explored the nearby botanical gardens, just under 2 km away. With its blooming flora and peaceful benches, it’s an ideal spot for a quiet coffee or birdwatching—perfect for taking in Halifax’s charm.

I indulged at McKelvie’s Seafood Restaurant on Bedford and Prince to wrap up my first day. The lobster roll was fresh and delicious, and the oysters were to die for! It was the ideal way to kick off my solo Cape Breton adventure, filled with fantastic food, sights, and serene moments.

Setting Off on the Cabot Trail Adventure

With an early start, I set off towards Sydney, Nova Scotia, eagerly anticipating the incredible landscapes of Cape Breton and the legendary Cabot Trail, a first for me! As I crossed the Causeway, I could already feel the thrill of discovering Cape Breton’s vibrant fall foliage, hidden gems along the Cabot Trail, and unique stays that charm this solo journey.

One of the first exciting moments along the way was spotting a majestic bald eagle perched in a tree by the roadside. I couldn’t resist turning around to capture photos of him, ensuring I kept a respectful distance to leave his serene habitat undisturbed. This unexpected encounter truly set the tone for the beautiful discoveries waiting ahead!

Checking into Sydney: Exploring the Simon Hotel and the Waterfront

In Sydney, I checked in at the Simon Hotel, a beautiful spot packed with amenities. I was thrilled to receive an upgrade to a spacious room on the 8th floor, offering a stunning view of the bay. The suite was designed for entertaining, with a private bedroom, a cozy living area with a sofa, a dining table, and even a thoughtful welcome gift! One of the highlights of the Simon Hotel is its rooftop patio, a perfect place to relax after a workout, soak up the sun, and enjoy the views of the bay as cruise ships come and go. As a critical port, Sydney welcomes numerous cruise ship visitors, each seeking to explore the city’s unique charm.

After enjoying the rooftop views, I explored Sydney’s waterfront. Walking along the boardwalk, I encountered the world’s tallest fiddle, an icon in its own right, and strolled past cruise ships docking nearby. The waterfront was lively, lined with charming shops and local dining spots waiting to be discovered.

For dinner, I opted for TRIO, the Simon Hotel’s restaurant. Their seafood offerings were tempting, and I went with the Trio Pan Fried Haddock, which came with seared scallops, a side, seasonal vegetables, and the highlight—a lobster-topped béarnaise sauce. Each element worked perfectly together, creating a memorable meal that was as delicious as it was unique, with a knowledgeable server who recommended my next stop; it was also the stop I had booked! Who knew great minds think alike?

Exploring Sydney before my next adventure

I wanted to point out that the shopping area in Sydney doesn’t have the fanfare you find in big cities, but the service I received was at the top. From the Jewelry purchased or the for-the-road sandwich and cinnamon rolls at Louanes Cafe to the murals and the outdoor patios!

Lastly, a little architectural gem is the Bank of Montreal Museum. Like me, if you love architectural details, the outside has it all, and the interior has that and artifacts from years gone by!
The streets and sidewalks were recently updated to bring life back into this part of a great city.

An Unforgettable Stay at Justin and Colin’s Seaside Inn

The hype was all worth it! Staying at the coastal inn owned by Scottish TV designers Justin and Colin felt like a piece of heaven and was an experience to remember. Greeted by Colin at check-in, I was thrilled to find myself in a room at North Star, Louisbourg, with ocean views, sightings of bald eagles, and a perfect patio to enjoy the sea breeze. Growing up by the water, I craved the fresh ocean air all year, and this stay instantly felt like home.

Justin and Colin’s backgrounds in the TV industry were evident in the room’s thoughtful details, curated with care. The room was clean and inviting, with light, relaxing music playing as I walked in. A selection of local wines was available for a cozy touch, and the kitchenette was equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable extended stay.

After catching a glimpse of the resident bald eagles, I headed to dinner at The Bothy, an experience I had eagerly anticipated—and it didn’t disappoint! Justin and Colin made rounds at each table, personally delivering food and drinks and ensuring every guest felt welcome. The ambiance was lively, with live music on stage, and the evening felt like a proper maritime gathering as locals invited me to join them after dinner. It brought back memories of kitchen parties from my youth, making the whole visit feel exceptionally warm and homey.

Stepping Back in Time at Louisbourg Fortress

Exploring Louisbourg Fortress was like stepping into the past! I’ve visited historical sites before, but this place made history come alive in a way I hadn’t experienced before. I even had some fun moments with the kitchen staff as they shared stories about how the central kitchen operated back in the 1700s—getting a taste of daily life from centuries ago was terrific!

Every doorway led to a discovery, with each reenactor adding a new chapter to my growing “book of knowledge” on the history here. My images capture the fortress’s impressive scale, the painstaking effort it took to restore it, and the expertise reenactors bring to every interaction.

Visitors, don’t miss the thrilling “Fire a Musket” demonstration at 10:50 a.m. and 1:50 p.m., where two skilled gentlemen prepare their muskets for an exciting display—always a crowd favourite! At 11 a.m., catch the fascinating cannon setup and stick around for the 11:45 a.m. cannon firing. This impressive display brings an extra layer of authenticity to this must-see historical site during peak season!

Exploring Unique Cape Breton: A Stay at Inverary Resort

After spending half a day immersed in Louisbourg’s history, I set out toward my next destination—the picturesque Inverary Resort. The journey took me through some of the Cabot Trail’s most breathtaking landscapes, an experience unique to Cape Breton. The resort is well-suited for travellers and event-goers alike, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure in a stunning setting.

Inverary Resort has all the amenities a traveller could wish for, including an indoor pool, an outdoor hot tub, and patios equipped with Adirondack chairs overlooking beautifully landscaped grounds. The attention to detail in their landscaping is evident, with vibrant flower beds lovingly tended by someone with a true green thumb. For those seeking more adventure, the resort offers rentals for boats, kayaks, and even pontoons—perfect for exploring the waters surrounding Cape Breton.

My spacious room was cozy and inviting, decorated with traditional Keltic quilts that added a local touch. The main lodge was a welcoming space, and after a stroll around the grounds (carefully avoiding a wedding party), I settled in for a classic pub experience with wings and a brew. Live music set the mood, and the musician’s song choices brought back a flood of teen memories—the perfect end to another unforgettable Cape Breton evening.

Discovering Alexander Graham Bell: Beyond the Telephone

How many of you think you know Alexander Graham Bell? Quite a bit, right? I thought I knew too—but there was so much more to his story! Bell’s inventions went far beyond the telephone. He was a visionary, engaged in many groundbreaking inventions over his lifetime.

Fascinatingly, his wife was also a key supporter, investing in his work after he gifted her most of his money and assets. Bell was also a passionate advocate for teaching sign language, believing firmly in giving deaf individuals a way to communicate. His final words to his wife were signed—a beautiful touch to his legacy.

While I usually don’t gush about museums, this one in Baddeck, Cape Breton, is a must-visit. Take some time to admire the unique architectural design of the building, too—it’s as remarkable as the story it tells!

Journey to Knotty Pine Cottages: Discovering More Cape Breton Magic

After another incredible experience, I set out for Knotty Pine Cottages, eager for the next chapter of my Cape Breton adventure. The drive there was mesmerizing, with vibrant landscapes everywhere I looked—and I even spotted two bears on a hillside!

Once checked in, I couldn’t wait to explore the area. The drone gave me a fantastic overview of the expansive property, revealing stunning views of Highlands Park and a surprising soft-water beach nestled among saltwater surroundings.

Knotty Pine Cottages felt like the ideal Cape Breton retreat. Each cottage has a spacious patio, well-kept Adirondack chairs, and beautifully tended flower beds along the road, making the experience extra special.

After freshening up, I headed to Smokey Sky Hill for a gondola ride to capture fall’s colours against the misty fog. Though the rain was steady, I captured some great content with incredible views of the Highlands from above—a perfect preview for my next-day hike! Dinner at Smokey Hill and a cozy night in the cabin were the ideal end to an unforgettable day: a quick, delicious breakfast at their restaurant before checking out.

On the way to my next adventure, I stopped in at the Groovy Goat Farm and Soap for some fresh products and spent some time with their goats.

Cape Breton’s Hidden Gem: A Cozy Stay at Glenora Inn and Distillery

The drive to Glenora Inn and Distillery was nothing short of magical; the colours along the way were so vivid that I could have set up a tent and stayed in the wilderness. But I had a cozy room waiting for me at Glenora, so I continued.

Arriving just in time for my dinner reservation at the Washback Pub, I was met with friendly service and a live music performance that set the perfect ambiance. My server suggested starting with mussels and using fresh fish and chips for the main course, and I’m so glad I went with his recommendation—both were delicious, with generous portions to match! Add in the toe-tapping music, and it was a memorable evening.

The following day, I joined one of the groups for the oldest single-malt distillery tour from Glenora’s hourly distillery tours. The tour was entertaining and educational, rich with stories about the distillery’s founding. After the tour, I indulged in a tasting and picked up a small bottle of their 15-year-old Single-Malt Whiskey to take home.

Before leaving, I strolled around the property to admire the grounds. Beautifully maintained by a dedicated caretaker, the landscape was awe-inspiring—a wow factor that added even more charm to this Cape Breton treasure.

The Final Stop: Gravity Luxury Domes

Feeling a bit sentimental as my Cape Breton journey ends, I’m off to Gravity Luxury Domes for one last adventure. After a long, beautiful week of exploring, I’m excited to unwind in my first dome staycation. The promise of a hot tub and BBQ awaits—let’s get on the road!

Dome #3, “The Nicole Dome,” was named after the owner’s daughter when I arrived. It’s ideally situated for a front-row view of the sunrise, and the space is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind; the bathroom is spacious, and the shower has no ledge, making it easy for everyone to use comfortably.

Unfortunately, as the weather took a turn, my outdoor plans were swapped for a cozy dinner in the nearby village. Later, I snuggled under the blankets back in the dome, watching a movie with snacks and soft drinks. Despite the weather, I made the most of this final evening, savouring the unique charm of dome life.

A Priceless Journey Through Cape Breton: Reflections on a Solo Adventure

My trip was a unique experience—I rarely packed so many breathtaking activities into a single trip in my travel career. Everything I’d heard and read about Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail couldn’t compare to what I encountered over seven unforgettable days of solo travel.

Solo travel is rising, and Cape Breton is an ideal destination for exploring independently. My itinerary was tailored to solo activities, dining experiences, and, yes, a hot tub. Cape Breton is a welcoming island filled with warm-hearted locals passionate about sharing their history and culture.

For anyone inspired to make the trip, here’s a breakdown of costs to give an idea of what to expect. Flying Porter Airlines from Ottawa to Halifax and return tickets was under $600; accommodations averaged around $275 per night; daily meals ranged between $50–$75; and with my Parks Canada Pass, I saved about $60 on Park entry fees. Gas for the journey cost approximately $200–$250. Altogether, this solo adventure came to around $3,000.

However, the experience? Absolutely priceless!
Until our next adventure
Roland