We have spent two nights touring Cape Breton and it is a beautiful part of Nova Scotia. They say it's an island with its own identity and it really does stand apart. There is so much culture represented here in the form of Celtic roots from Scottish, Irish and Acadian settlers, and the Celtic traditions, including its music scene which is very alive here. There are also indigenous cultures with Metis, Mi'qmak and other First Nations reservations here. It is friendly and warm, the people are good natured, humble and have a great sense of humour. There's a Protestant influence on one side of the isle and Roman Catholic on the other. The countryside and small towns are littered with picturesque small white churches and their tall slim steeples that you can see round every bend. It is not over-populated and it feels like people have lots of space to spread out and live a good life. We liked it here a lot.
Our first night in Baddeck was lovely with a warm welcome from some locals who have become a part of our extended family. We were treated to a delicious dinner on the wharf and enjoyed great company. Our stay in Baddeck went quickly as we decided to drive the world famous Cabot trail the next morning. This is a circular scenic route that passes by many communities, artisans, churches and viewpoints overlooking the sea and its beaches....lighthouses included. We passed through a few weather climates on the way too....and ended the day with a lightning show! En route we hiked the Skyline trail which is about a seven kilometre loop with breathtaking views.
Arriving at our charming B&B in Mabou, a town made famous by its traditional music, we were ready for a night out at the Red Shoe Inn. The Rankin Sisters own it and there is live music each night. We were treated to a great fiddler and guitarist, and the sound just made me feel like I was home in Scotland. I was tempted to get up and stomp my feet and clap my hands. Maybe it was the music or maybe it's the local atmosphere, but I like it here!