Cabot Trail Shore Excursion: Ingonish & Keltic Lodge Escape

4.7
(7 reviews)
Sydney (CA), Canada

6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered

Unlock the breathtaking majesty of the Cabot Trail with Shuttle24—the ultimate shore excursion starting right from the Port of Sydney. From the sweeping vistas atop Kelly’s Mountain to the sparkling waters of the Bras d'Or Lake.

Venture through the heart of Cape Breton’s rugged soul, where towering cliffs meet the Atlantic at Cape Smokey, and hidden fishing villages like Wreck Cove offer a glimpse into local life. Whether you are walking the grounds of the legendary Keltic Lodge or admiring the world-famous Highland Links, every stop is a postcard come to life.

Tour Highlights
Experience the raw beauty of rugged coastlines and lush, ancient mountains.
Visit the historic Keltic Lodge and the stunning Highland Links Golf Course.
Capture perfect photos from Kelly’s Mountain and the soaring cliffs of Cape Smokey.
Explore serene countryside and authentic fishing communities.
Perfectly timed for cruise passengers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.

What's Included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees for parks, attractions, and activity sites.
Meals

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Meeting Instructions
Your guide will meet you just outside the main cruise terminal exit. Look for a sign with your name or "Shuttle Tours"

Timing & Flexibility

Disembarking: Please aim to disembark early; your guide will wait for 30 minutes.

Schedule Changes: If your ship docks earlier or later than planned, we will automatically adjust your tour start time.

Preferences: You may request a morning or afternoon start by adding a note in the "Special Requirements" section.

Pickups & Updates
For hotel or airport pickups, please specify your preferred start time. We will send you a final update the evening before your tour.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • Sydney (Pass by)

    Your journey begins with a hassle-free pickup right from the Sydney Cruise Port, followed by a relaxing, scenic drive through downtown Sydney. As we cruise along Charlotte Street—the vibrant heart of the city—you'll get a firsthand look at bustling local shops, markets, and cozy cafés, alongside popular local landmarks like Tim Hortons and the casino area. Along the way, you’ll pass charming historic homes and notable architecture that showcase Sydney's rich heritage and local character. Designed specifically for cruise passengers, this comfortable drive-by experience offers the perfect, time-efficient overview of our waterfront city’s everyday charm and culture before continuing on your unforgettable Cabot Trail

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Seal Island Bridge

    As your tour journeys along the Trans-Canada Highway toward the Cabot Trail, prepare for one of the most breathtaking engineering marvels in Atlantic Canada: the Seal Island Bridge. Towering over the Great Bras d'Or Channel, this iconic green through-arch bridge connects Boularderie Island with Cape Breton’s mainland. Your Shuttle Tours guide will pause at a prime look-off point, giving you the perfect opportunity to capture panoramic photos of the sweeping mountain ranges and the rushing tidal waters below. Spanning over 700 meters, crossing and viewing this magnificent structure is an unforgettable highlight that showcases Cape Breton’s rugged, dramatic scale.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Saint Anns

    Get your cameras ready for one of the most breathtaking panoramic vistas on the entire St. Anns Loop! Shuttle Tours will pull into this elevated roadside lookout, offering you sweeping, unobstructed views of the sprawling St. Anns Bay and the rolling green highlands that frame it. Your guide will point out local landmarks and share the history of the Gaelic settlers who fell in love with these very views centuries ago. It’s the ultimate postcard photo-stop and a perfect spot to breathe in the crisp, salty Atlantic air.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Englishtown

    Experience a charming piece of Cape Breton tradition with Shuttle Tours! We will cross the narrow gap of the St. Anns Bay aboard the Torquil MacLean—a classic, 15-car cable ferry that has been connecting the local communities for decades. The short, scenic crossing takes just a few minutes, giving you a wonderful chance to step out, feel the fresh Atlantic breeze, and look out for local marine life like bald eagles and seals. It’s a unique, authentic maritime experience that perfectly connects you to the spectacular St. Anns Loop and the Cabot Trail.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Cabot Trail (Pass by)

    The north side of the Cabot Trail up to Ingonish offers breathtaking scenery and rugged beauty. As you drive along this coastal route, you'll be captivated by towering cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and vibrant green forests. The trail passes through small, charming fishing villages where you can experience local culture and hospitality. Highlights include Cape Smokey, with its dramatic cliffs and panoramic vistas, and the scenic drive through the Cape Breton Highlands. Near Ingonish, enjoy pristine beaches, the famous Keltic Lodge, and world-renowned golf courses. This area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure, making it an unforgettable part of your journey through Cape Breton.

    Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Ingonish Beach

    Prepare to be amazed by the dramatic landscapes of Ingonish Beach, located inside the spectacular Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Shuttle Tours brings you to this rare geological gem, famous for its unique barachois design—a massive natural stone barrier that separates the crashing, salty waves of the Atlantic Ocean from a perfectly calm, warm freshwater lake. Walk along the smooth cobblestone ridge, sink your toes into the soft sand, and admire the towering green cliffs that frame the bay. It’s a jaw-dropping landscape stop that perfectly captures the wild beauty of the Cabot Trail.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery ( Seasonal may- October)

    Time for a delicious taste of local flavor! Shuttle Tours will pull into this beloved, ocean-view staple right on the Cabot Trail. Known for its warm maritime hospitality and mouth-watering, scratch-made treats, it’s the perfect place to refuel. You can stretch your legs, grab a fresh-brewed coffee, and indulge in their famous giant cinnamon buns, savory meat pies, or fresh seafood chowder. Sit out on the deck, soak in the ocean breeze, and enjoy a true Cape Breton pit-stop.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Gaelic College

    Step into the living history of Cape Breton at the world-renowned Gaelic College in St. Anns. Shuttle Tours brings you to this unique institution dedicated to preserving traditional Celtic culture. Take a stroll through the beautiful craft shop featuring authentic tartan wear, explore the Great Hall of the Clans museum to uncover the deep Scottish roots of the island, and if you're lucky, catch a live demonstration of traditional kilt-making, weaving, or Cape Breton step-dancing. It is a deeply enriching cultural stop that connects you to the heartbeat of the island's heritage.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    We time our return perfectly, ensuring you arrive with plenty of time to board your ship comfortably, browse the local artisan shops at the terminal, or snap a final photo with the world's largest fiddle!

    5 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Shuttle Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Photography Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Car Tours
Shore Excursions
Small Group
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.7 Based on 7 7 reviews
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