Cape Breton Highlands and Newfoundland 2017
We've never been to Newfoundland or the Cape Breton section of Nova Scotia for that matter, so it was time to make a big summer trip. Our plan was to spend about a month on the road in our Westfalia Syncro and explore long stretches of coastline and natural places.
Day 1...We packed up van and trailer and left late from Ottawa mid-afternoon Fri July 14th, 2017, with a plan to either camp or hotel after making good distance that day. At 10 p.m. we were in Levis Quebec (across the river from Quebec City), and got a room by the skin of our teeth because there was a big concert that night and many people were out for a big night away from home.
Day 2...After another good day of driving, we crashed at the Pied Piper Motel just outside Amherst Nova Scotia, meaning we would be in the Cape Breton Highlands the next day.
Day 3...The coastline between Chimney Corner and Margaree Harbour.
One of many Westfalias we'll see on this trip...
Near Chimney corner right at the ocean, an old cemetery and a great view
Our first stop in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is at Cheticamp, and our campsite is right next to a very interesting wooden framed structure under construction as a stage and exhibit area. It's flows and curves like the sea.
A good sized fireplace/BBQ made from the end of a big propane tank, and plasma cut beaver (Parks Canada logo) is cut through the side, giving neat shadow and flame patterns at night.
Our next door neighbors at camp are from Massachusetts, and (small world) happen to be friends with the President of KAO Infosystems in Plymouth MA back in the 90's, where I used to work.
Day 4...Next morning we are on the road up into the highlands, and take a side trip from Cape North through Bay St. Lawrence and Capstick along a long winding road to Meat Cove which is right at the northern tip of the mainland. On all our journey, the little restaurant right on the cliffs there has the best Seafood Chowder of all the ones we tried! Delicious.
And as an added bonus, we again meet our acquaintances from last night at Cheticamp!
Down through Dingwall, White Point and Neils Harbour we're still driving the coast, and stop at Black Brook Cove beach in the full sunshine. Arrived at Broad Cove campground around 8 pm.
Day 5... Another great day exploring the coastline. We spend a night at Captain Puffin campground near Bras D'Or, and spent the time exploring the the area and coastline then finally head down the coast towards Sydney, where we'll catch the ferry to Newfoundland.
Day 3...Heading towards the Cape Breton Highlands we stop near Judique to rest and learn more about the old trails there.
Our nextdoor neighbors at Captain Puffin are Noreen and Patrick from Asheville South Carolina. We have a dightful visit and conversation about Old tree conservation and also hear a great book replete with audbile recordings of songs with the push of a button in the book!
Day 6...
Leaving our campsite at Captain Puffin the plan is to drive to Sydney Mines to scope out the ferry for tomorrow night, then explore the area. Then go back towards Bra D'Or and find a campsite for the night.
Visiting the Marconi National Historic site was the highlight of the day for sure. Such a History!
