Trailside is also a stargazer’s dream
Tourism Action Plan, based on things he has studied, researched, and learned about the industry over the years. Together, Ruth and Adam bring their education and expertise to create a year- round oasis for nature lovers at Trailside, though at first, owning a business like this wasn’t their plan. When working on the Cape Breton Mountain Bike Tourism Action Plan, Adam had already dreamed of moving to Cape Breton. The success of this document was just another motivator to make that move. Unfortunately, at first, they struggled to find a house in the area they wanted. Until finally coming across the 26-acre property situated at the foot of the Cape Breton Highlands, which has breathtaking views of the mountains, a lake, and the Atlantic Ocean that would become Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures. This location has had a 150- year history of being a lodging space, such as a bed and breakfast or stopping house.
The property has four rustic cottages built more than two decades ago. So, while Ruth and Adam hadn’t set out to own an accommodation business, finding a beautiful property and home that happened to come with cottages felt like the right fit for them, and in 2021 they acquired the property. Location is everything, and Trailside is just 15 minutes from Cape Smokey and 20 minutes from Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This means guests are in the heart of Cape Breton’s best winter activities. They can start their day on the private, freshly groomed trails with a leisurely walk or a snowshoeing adventure, made all the easier by free snowshoe loaners. Ruth and Adam are also working on having a fleet of fat bikes available for guests to rent. While the Trailside private trails are intended for non-motorized vehicles, snowmobiling and ATV enthusiasts can take advantage of the nearby highland trails with thousands of kilometres of trails meant specifically for motorized vehicles.
Guests can also easily enjoy the slopes at Cape Smokey with Trailside partnering with Cape Smokey to offer lift pass discounts for multi-night stays with their Ski and Stay Package. When you book this package, Trailside works directly with Cape Smokey to handle your tickets so that you’re ready to go once you hit the hill. No hassle, no long lines, just maximizing your skiing time! If you prefer cross-country skiing, Trailside is also a short drive to North Highlands Nordic Centre and Ski Tuonela. While Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures is the perfect place to embrace the beauty of winter, it certainly has year-round appeal. In the summer, adventure seekers can find waterfalls, rivers, mountains, open meadows, and more. According to Ruth, “one of the things that people say over and over when they’re here is that sense of peace and calm and magic that they get from being on the property.” Being so embedded in nature doesn’t just mean exploring trails and hitting slopes, either. Trailside is also a stargazer’s dream.
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