3 Night Winter Itinerary
Dreaming of a 3-Night Winter Vacation in Cape Breton? Here’s your perfect itinerary!
When the snow falls in Cape Breton, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland that’s perfect for outdoor adventures and cozy evenings! Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins offer the ideal base for exploring the beauty of Cape Breton in winter, with a balance of exciting activities and relaxing moments.
Here’s how you can spend three unforgettable winter days here:
Day 1: Arrival & Snowshoeing Adventure at Sally’s Brook
After arriving at Sally’s Brook and settling into your cozy cabin or yurt, it’s time to embrace the winter magic right on-site.
Morning
Time to start exploring! Strap on a pair of snowshoes and head out to explore the private trails surrounding Sally’s Brook. Wander through serene woodlands, over gentle hills, and alongside bubbling streams blanketed in snow. The crisp winter air and peaceful surroundings will leave you refreshed and energized.
Afternoon
Take a break from the trails for a late afternoon lunch. Bring a packed picnic to enjoy by a fire pit or return to the resort’s off-grid cookhouse to make a warm, homemade meal! Spend the rest of the afternoon at a leisurely pace, reading a book or playing a board game while watching the snow fall!
Evening
As the day winds down, unwind in the wood-fired sauna at Sally’s Brook! The warmth and gentle steam provide the perfect way to soothe tired muscles after your snowshoeing adventure. End your evening by your indoor fireplace, sipping on a nice glass of wine or a hot mug of tea! Don’t forget to sign up for your spot in the sauna - you will find this sign up sheet on the refrigerator door of the Cookhouse. This is a self serve amenity, and you can find more instructions on how to start heating up the sauna and other hot house etiquette here.
Day 2: Winter Fun on the Cabot Trail & Evening Sauna
The world-renowned Cabot Trail is a stunning destination year-round, and in winter, while it may be quieter, it’s just as beautiful! And luckily, since you’re staying at Sally’s Brook, the gateway to the Highlands is right at our doorstep.
Morning
In the morning, head toward the Margaree entrance of the Cabot Trail just past Baddeck. You will enjoy marveling at the dramatic views of the valley and the winding river running through it. You might spot a moose or fox in the snowy terrain. Margaree Valley is always bound to have the most snow, which makes driving through it especially beautiful this time of year.
We recommend taking this chance to stop into Margaree’s famous Dancing Goat Café, boasting some of the best coffee & treats the Cabot Trail has to offer!
Afternoon
If you’re up for it, keep heading down the Cabot Trail from Margaree and you will eventually reach Cheticamp and the official entrance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The views on this drive will take your breath away!
Once you’ve had your fill of exploring, head back in the direction of Sally’s Brook. If you don’t feel like cooking, stop into Baddeck for an incredible meal at The Freight Shed. This stunning restaurant is open all year round and every item on the menu is a hit!
Evening
After a delicious dinner in Baddeck, you’re a quick 20-minute drive back to Sally’s Brook! So sit back, relax, and enjoy another rejuvenating evening. Head to the sauna once again, and maybe take part in a Nordic thermal cycle: alternating between the heat of the sauna and the cool winter air. Nordic cycles offer incredible health benefits, including improved circulation and stress relief.
Day 3: Skiing & A Cozy Finale at Sally’s Brook
How is it day three already!? Time to go big or go home with a day filled with snow-covered thrills going over Cape Smokey and exploring Ingonish!
Morning
For your final day, rise & shine and head to Ski Cape Smokey, Cape Breton’s premier downhill skiing or snowboarding destination, and Nova Scotia’s first and only gondola! Within an hour you’ll be over Nova Scotia’s tallest mountain: Cape Smokey, and on the slopes and enjoying breathtaking views from their idyllic gondola.
If you prefer cross-country skiing, you have multiple options. Ski Tuonela is even closer than Cape Smokey. North Highlands Nordic is a bit further and located in Cape North, but it has some of the most amazing views, is groomed, and has a vast network of trails to enjoy. All of these options offer fun for all skill levels and a chance to enjoy Cape Breton's winter landscape.
Afternoon
After an exhilarating day at the hill, treat yourself to a warming meal at The Slope Bar & Grill located at Ski Cape Smokey, a hot pizza from Andrew’s Pizza in Ingonish, or check out The Other Cupboard Emporium which sell home-made, premade meals and a fantastic assortment of snacks that you can bring back and enjoy in the Cookhouse or your cabin. Spend late afternoon at your own pace—whether that’s taking a peaceful walk around Sally’s Brook or snapping some winter photos to remember your trip.
Evening
Your last evening at Sally’s Brook is all about unwinding. Indulge in one final session in the wood-fired sauna, soaking in the peaceful silence of the wilderness. Reflect on your adventures and enjoy the warmth of your cozy accommodations!
Ready to plan your winter escape? Check out our winter accommodations!
Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins offer the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re snowshoeing on-site, exploring the iconic Cabot Trail, or skiing on Cape Breton’s slopes, your days will be filled with excitement. With the comfort of a wood-fired sauna and the tranquility of your cabin waiting for you each evening, it’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.
