mat54

We've visited Cape Breton a number of times, but usually stay in the Ingonish area. For our upcoming visit, we thought we'd like to be more convenient to the Ceilidh Trail for exploration, while still being able to visit the Park for hikes. Additionally, we thought it would be nice to stay in a town that offers a few restaurants and shops within walking distance, and ideally some musical entertainment for a pub-night out.

We've lunched and shopped a little in both Cheticamp and Baddeck but have not stayed in either. I'd be interested in opinions. Thanks!

UTour

I'll offer a qualified answer in that I only drove through Cheticamp when I was down east last Fall vs. having overnighted in Baddeck but I'd say the latter would fit your bill well. The main drag in Baddeck has a number of restaurants and pubs and I'd be awfully surprised if musical entertainment wasn't on the menu at a few of them.

HTH
u

OceanBreeze1

Hi, mat!
Definitely Baddeck for the following reasons: Nicer places to stay, more restaurants, golf at Bell Bay if that interests you, boat tours on the Bras d'or Lakes, a "village" atmosphere where you can stroll at night.

The Inverary Inn in Baddeck used to be avery nice place to stay but we have not stayed there for a while so get updated info b/f you reserve.

When are you going?

OB1

mat54

Thanks UTour and OceanBreeze. I'm undecided but spouse is leaning towards Cheticamp, for some reason has never taken to Baddeck when we've visited (feels Cheticamp is a bit more "unique" with it's Acadian fishing village origins and proximity to the Highlands portion of the Park). I did have the impression there are more "nice" places to stay in Baddeck, but when possible we like accommodations with kitchens and on (or real close to) the water and there are more of these in Cheticamp. Golf not a priority (have done Highland Links couple of times in past) and we'll have opportunities elsewhere on our tour.

We'll visit in August. I'm still toying with where we'll stay, will pass on and discuss your recommendations, and am open to additional comments. Thanks!

OceanBreeze1

mat,
Perhaps you shd just go back to Ingonish....."If it's not broken....." I am admittedly biased b/c Ingonish is my favorite place (in the world!).

Alternatively, you cld reserve something in Cheticamp in addition to reserving someplace else (Margaree, Baddeck, Ingonish....If I think of other possible places, I will post back later). If you do not like Cheticamp, you can go to Plan B. If you like it, cancel the other place but make sure you are w/in your "no penalty" cancellation time frame.

For Margaree, you may want to consider The Normaway Inn, Cabins and Suites
www.thenormawayinn.com

Another thought: Depending upon how long you will be in Cape Breton in August, you may want to consider renting a cottage privately from VRBO or some such reputable site.


OceanBreeze

OceanBreeze1

Just remembered that Normaway is not on the water so that will not work for you. At least I do not think it is right on the water but check & see.

Baxterpoo

I vote for Baddeck....lovely spot, don't miss the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Place. Extremely well done, had no idea all the other things he invented.