Cabot Trail, Canada

The Cabot Trail curls around the northern tip of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. The road brings travelers through lush green forests that in the fall transform into a breathtaking sea of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change colors. Along the route, drivers will come across an abundance of restaurants, museums, and galleries as well as hiking and snowmobiling paths. As well as soaking up the incredible views, there are plenty of attractions where people will want to stop and explore. The drive links several coastal villages where visitors can sample fresh seafood, browse local art or learn about the region’s Acadian and Gaelic heritage. The Cabot Trail also provides access to hiking trails in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, ranging from clifftop boardwalks to forest rambles. Other activities include whale watching and kayaking.

Casting a loop around Cape Breton Island in the northeast of Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail is a 298km touring route. One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, it weaves around rugged headlands with spectacular views of the North Atlantic and Gulf of St Lawrence. Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts tackle the Cabot Trail under pedal power each summer. The trip is not particularly long, but it is very strenuous in sections, and the lack of a wide shoulder can make for some hair-raising moments. The classic way to see the best of the island is the Cabot Trail, a two-lane highway that loops around the island's north and connects its wilderness areas and several of its historic towns, becoming one of the most beautiful highways in the world.