Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/500391
34 g o i n g p l a c e s | s u m m e r 2 0 1 5 (tOP LeFt) cANAdiAN tOUriSM cOMMiSSiON, tOUriSM NOVA ScOtiA, (cANNONS) BArrett & MAcKAY/GettY iMAGeS A nyone who has visited Nova Scotia's island of Cape Breton has likely: a) found themselves at a local kitchen party play- ing spoons; b) felt a need for a Cape Breton-to- English dictionary; c) regretted plans to drive the famous Cabot Trail in one day. Let's take the last point first: Named for Italian explorer John Cabot, who sailed into this Atlantic region way back in 1497, the leg- endary Cabot Trail is a 300-kilometre coastal drive at the northern part of the island that off ers, seemingly, a superlative for every single one of those kilometres. "Our rugged little gem," the locals call it. You can do the loop in about six hours. But as one Cape Bretoner tells us, "I always laugh when someone says they're doing that. You're robbing yourself. Plan for two, and if you have the luxury, three days." You'll fi nd any tips on Cape Breton Island travel served up with an irresistible add-on or two from friendly locals. Once you're on the trail towards Ingonish on the east coast, "Stop at the Dancing Moose Café in Wreck Cove," advises a helpful islander. Adds another new friend: "If you go to Louisbourg, take the old back road to Gab- arus and Forchu, then get some Wandering Shepherd cheese. Defi nitely worth the stop." It's overkill of the most charming variety, and you may want to toss your best-laid plans (along with your GPS) out the window. Espe- cially on the Cabot Trail. You'll learn there are Hands-on History History buffs can nd plenty to explore on Cape Breton Island, including these two must-see attractions. Handle with care: Cape Breton's most famous resident is immortalized in the village of Baddeck at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. The museum's White Glove Tour offers a unique hands-on experience with some of Bell's personal mementos. You'll also be invited to open up storage cabinets and pull back the curtains protecting a wide variety of artifacts. www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/ grahambell/index.aspx Fire one: Ever red a cannon? Try it out any day throughout July and August at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. At this 18th- century fortress, you'll learn enough French colonial artillery science to re an impressive cannon of several tonnes, capable of launching a can- nonball a distance of two kilometres. www.fortresso ouisbourg.ca Ride the Cabot Trail in style on a Trafalgar motorcoach tour. Contact CAA Travel at 204-262-6000 to pick the right trip for you.