Where the great Margaree River meets the sea, there is a picturesque
working harbour. And located near the south end of the Harbour
bridge, the village of Margaree Harbour is one of the area's small
gems.
At one time a bustling commercial port before the Causeway
existed, it's now a sleepy village with a mixture of locals and
summer residents who come from all over of North America to savour
its pastoral charm. The village is a nice example of Maritime
architectural homogeneity, with its quaint cluster of shingled and
clapboard houses, huddled in the perfect spot: enjoy its busy yet
peaceful harbour, its two stoic lighthouses, a fabulous beach and
dunes, and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park in the distance.
The nerve centre is Laurence's Store, a classic general store and
post office run by the irrepressible Fletcher Laurence. Take the
time to buy a refreshment, send a postcard and enjoy some of the
local life passing you by. It's also a great spot to catch a sunset
over the ocean and the rock formation known as the 'Margaree
Monster.'
You'll find the village by turning off the Trail at the
junction for Route 219 (the Shore Rd.), then heading toward the
United church. Back on the Cabot Trail, there's also accommodation
and fine dining at the Duck Cove Inn, with fine views overlooking
the harbour; local residents like to congregate there for the Duck's
Sunday brunch buffet.