Still looking for more: Climb up to the hostel bell tower and enjoy a 360 degree view of the highlands and coast while relaxing in one of our hammocks.

Driving the Cabot Trail

The most asked question. Should I drive clockwise or counter clockwise around the trail?

Answers.

“We wound up doing the trail clockwise the 1st day and counter clock wise the next. As for the debate, clockwise or counter clock wise? You can’t go wrong with either way. But, by doing it in both directions you see an entirely different view.”

Counter clockwise is certainly less traveled , and likely you would not encounter buses and RV's near as much.

Cabot Trail length: 185 miles - 298 KM
If you travel in a clockwise direction, you'll be on the "inside" lane as you drive along both coasts. Because the road goes up and down steep grades and curves, the clockwise direction is better for drivers (and passengers) who dislike driving next to steep drops. Many of the turnoffs into Cape Breton Highlands National Park are right turns if you are traveling clockwise. Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. While this direction is less popular (it's billed as the direction for the brave driver), it may be easier to handle if you dislike slow traffic, as fewer people travel counter-clockwise.