Completing the Loop

Three full days in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park section of the Cabot Trail challenged us and spoiled us at the same time. The steep ascents, with lasting grades reaching up to 15%, and the wild, twisty technical descents made this section one of the most demanding rides we've ever undertaken together. However, it was the surrounding nature, empty roads, and sense of solitude that made these days unforgettable. Pedaling through such natural beauty while listening to the sounds of nature and the rhythmic noise of our bicycles was simply magical.

Our route today

Admittedly, by the time we finished the ride yesterday, we were both so fatigued from climbing and battling powerful winds that we considered taking a day off in Baddeck. However, after a good night's sleep and realizing that time was no longer on our side, we knew we had to push forward today, which meant tackling a 57-mile stretch of highway that would pale in comparison to the previous days.

Today's ride was entirely along a stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway, which was relatively quiet compared to some of the highway rides we endured while crossing the United States. While the road noise was irritating, it was moderate, and we maintained a strong, relatively fast pace, completing the ride in just over five hours. It’s amazing how a good sleep serves as the antidote for recovery.

We arrived in Auld’s Cove, the same place we stayed when we started the Cabot Trail and our loop around Cape Breton. We love this place and are happy to be here. This evening, we will have a planning session to map out and time the remainder of our ride to Halifax. Then, it’s off to enjoy live music and dinner at the best unknown oceanside restaurant on the planet, which happens to be only 50 feet from our room. Here are some images along our ride today: