Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is Canada’s ocean playground — a coastal province known for lighthouses, beaches, fishing harbours, Celtic and Acadian culture, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality.

Throughout the province, guests will find scenic coastal drives, vibrant local communities, artisan shops, live music, and some of Atlantic Canada’s most memorable landscapes.

Cape Breton

Cape Breton Island is best known for the Cabot Trail, one of the world’s great coastal drives. The route winds through dramatic coastlines, mountain look-offs, forests, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Guests can expect:

• Hiking trails for all experience levels
• Scenic look-offs and beaches
• Whale watching opportunities
• Wildlife including bald eagles, seals, moose, and seasonal puffins
• Local seafood, music, and artisan shops

WINTER EVENTS

Winter in Ingonish transforms the landscape into a snowy playground. Below are the top winter events and activities near Cormorant Rock, including contact details and driving distances.

Ingonish Winter Fest

• Distance: ~15 mins (14 km)
• Quick Tip: A community-led festival held over Family Day weekend featuring snow sculpture contests, shovel races, and sliding.
• Contact: Ingonish Connected (Community Page)

Warm Your Bones Festival

• Distance: Varies by venue (Local stops in Ingonish)
• Quick Tip: Cape Breton’s coziest winter festival in February, focused on hot drink specials, comfort foods, and local music.
• Contact: warmyourbones.ca | info@sportandsocial.ca

New Year’s Day Levees

• Distance: ~15–20 mins (14–17 km)
• Quick Tip: A time-honoured Nova Scotian tradition where local Legions and halls open their doors for "Moose Milk" and community greetings.
• Contact: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 105 (Ingonish)

Outdoor Activities

Skiing & Snowboarding at Cape Smokey

• Distance: <1 min (Directly adjacent to Cormorant Rock)
• Quick Tip: Experience "Skiing by the Sea" with Atlantic Canada's only gondola and a 300m vertical drop.
• Contact: +1 902-517-0371 | capesmokey.ca

North Highlands Nordic (Cross-Country Skiing)

• Distance: ~35 mins (42 km)
• Quick Tip: Over 12km of world-class groomed trails in nearby Cape North for classic and skate techniques.
• Contact: +1 902-383-2479 | nhn.xcski.ca

Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking

• Cape Smokey - Snowshoeing trails from the peak (Gondola ride included in price of rentals.)
• Contact: +1 902-517-0371 | capesmokey.ca
• Snowshoe the Highlands
• Distance: ~15 mins (14 km) to Visitor Centre
• Quick Tip: Explore the Highlands trails in a new light. Snowshoe rentals are often available at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre.
• Contact: Parks Canada Ingonish

Outdoor Skating & Tobogganing

• Distance: ~15 mins (13 km)
• Quick Tip: The Ingonish Outdoor Rink is the local hub for skating; many nearby hills in the National Park are perfect for sledding.
• Contact: Visit Ingonish

Snowmobiling

• Distance: Direct access to local trail networks
• Quick Tip: Cape Breton is famous for its vast groomed snowmobile trails that offer stunning highland vistas.
• Contact: SANS (Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia)

Summer Events

Summer in Ingonish offers everything from rugged mountain climbs to serene beach days. Below are the top summer activities near Cormorant Rock, including contact details and driving distances.

Mountain & Viewpoint Adventures

Cape Smokey Gondola

• Distance: <1 min (Adjacent to the property)
• Quick Tip: Ride Atlantic Canada’s only gondola for breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
• Contact: +1 902-285-2880 | capesmokey.ca

Skyline Trail

• Distance: ~1.5 hours (107 km)
• Quick Tip: The most iconic hike in Cape Breton. Go at sunset for the best views, but watch for moose on the way back!
• Contact: Parks Canada Ingonish (Visitor Centre)

Franey Trail

• Distance: ~20 mins (17 km)
• Quick Tip: A challenging, steep climb that rewards you with a 360-degree view of the entire coastline.
• Contact: Parks Canada

Middle Head Trail

• Distance: ~20 mins (17 km)
• Quick Tip: Located behind the Keltic Lodge; it's a relatively flat hike that takes you to the very tip of a narrow peninsula.
• Contact: Parks Canada Ingonish

Beaches & Water Activities

Ingonish Beach & Freshwater Lake

• Distance: ~15 mins (14 km)
• Quick Tip: Swim in the salt-water ocean and then rinse off in the freshwater lake just steps away.
• Contact: Parks Canada

Black Brook Beach

• Distance: ~25 mins (24 km)
• Quick Tip: Famous for its waterfall on the sand and incredible body-surfing waves.
• Contact: Parks Canada

Ingonish Whale Watching Tours

• Distance: ~15 mins (14 km)
• Quick Tip: High-speed Zodiac tours are the best way to see whales and the rugged Highlands cliffs from the water.
• Contact: +1 902-285-4186

Dixon's Zodiac Seafari

• Distance: Approximately 25-minute drive north.
• Contact: +1 855-259-4122

Cape Breton Northern Tip Charters (For specialized hand-jigging cod/mackerel)

• Distance: Approximately 55-minute drive north.
• Contact: +1 902-870-4025

Surfing - Surf & Turf Adventures.

• Distance: Approximately 3-minute drive north.
• Contact: +1 902-285-1053

Recreation & Culture

Highlands Links Golf Course

• Distance: ~20 mins (16 km)
• Quick Tip: Often ranked as one of the top public courses in Canada; designed by Stanley Thompson.
• Contact: +1 902-285-2600 | Highlands Links

Zipline

Mountain Pine Adventures - Atlantic Canada's largest overwater zipline

• Distance: Approximately 45-minute drive north.
• Contact: +1 902-202-9761

Ingonish

Ingonish is a coastal community where mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean. Located beside Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the area offers beaches, hiking trails, cycling routes, golf, skiing, and ocean activities throughout the year.

Cape Smokey anchors the region with Atlantic Canada’s only gondola, skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking, sightseeing, and panoramic views year round.

Curated Experiences

Cormorant Rock is designed to offer more than accommodation. Throughout the year, guests have access to a collection of curated experiences intended to showcase the best of Cape Breton’s coastline, mountains, culture, and outdoor lifestyle in a way that feels seamless, memorable, and connected to the surrounding landscape.

During the winter season, guests can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Cape Smokey, located just minutes from the property. Ocean views, varied terrain, and Atlantic Canada’s only gondola create one of the most unique mountain experiences in the region. For guests seeking a more immersive winter adventure, guided backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling excursions may also be arranged depending on conditions and experience level.

In the warmer months, the mountain transforms into a destination for hiking, sightseeing, and exploration. Guests can take the gondola to the summit of Cape Smokey and access an expanding trail network with panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline and Cape Breton Highlands. Hawley Lake, located a short walk from the top of the gondola, offers a peaceful setting for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the mountain environment.

The surrounding coastline also provides exceptional opportunities to experience Cape Breton from the water. Seasonal excursions may include Zodiac whale watching tours, visits to Bird Islands to view puffins and seabirds, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking in Ingonish Harbour, and guided surfing experiences suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Cormorant Rock also offers opportunities to slow down and enjoy the quieter side of Cape Breton. Depending on the season and availability, guests may enjoy live music evenings at the lodge, yoga sessions, beachside lobster boils, private dining experiences, and locally inspired culinary offerings arranged directly through our guest services team.

Our team would be pleased to assist with recommendations, planning, and arrangements throughout your stay. For availability, seasonal offerings, or assistance coordinating experiences, please contact Cormorant Rock Guest Services.

Recommended Dining

• The Cape Restaurant — +1 902-776-0322 (Located on-site at Cape Smokey)
• Main Street Restaurant & Bakery — Ingonish Beach — +1 902 285 2225
• Seagull Restaurant — Ingonish — +1 902-285-2851
• Morrison's Restaurant — Cape North — +1 902-383-2727
• Angie's Restaurant — Cape North — +1 902-383-2531
• The Mountain View Restaurant — Pleasant Bay — +1 902-999-5268
• Arduaine Restaurant — Keltic Lodge — +1 902 285 2880
• Bean Barn Café & Deli — North Ingonish — +1 902 285 2767
• Coastal Restaurant — North Ingonish — +1 902 285 2526
• Doucette’s Market & Clays Confectionery — Ingonish Beach — +1 902 285 2861

Gas Stations

*All gas stations offer diesel

• Doucette’s Esso — Ingonish Beach
• Irving Gas — Ingonish
• XTR Gas — Dingwall
• *Only station listed with premium gasoline (91 octane)

Check-In and Check-Out

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM

Check-out is at 11:00 AM

If you require assistance before arrival or during your stay, please contact our team.

+1 (902) 776-0322

Quiet Hours

To ensure a peaceful environment for all guests, quiet hours are observed between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation

Each chalet is equipped with heating and ventilation systems designed to provide year-round comfort.

Please keep windows and doors closed during severe weather or when heating/cooling systems are operating.

Windows and Doors

All windows include a safety button located on the handle.

To open:

• Press the safety button
• Turn the handle upward
• Pull the window inward

To close:

• Push the window closed
• Turn the handle downward until locked

Patio and balcony doors operate similarly.

Please ensure all windows and doors are properly closed and locked whenever leaving the chalet.

Coffee Maker – SMEG DCF02 - Click here for online user manual

• Fill the water tank using cold, preferably filtered water
• Insert a paper filter and ground coffee
• Close the lid securely
• Press the power button to begin brewing
• Allow brewing to finish fully before serving

Please use caution around hot surfaces and steam.

Kettle – SMEG Electric Kettle - Click here for online user manual

• Fill kettle between minimum and maximum marks
• Close the lid securely
• Place kettle on base
• Press the switch downward to begin boiling
• Kettle will switch off automatically once boiling is complete

Toaster – SMEG Toaster - Click here for online user manual.

• Insert bread into slots
• Select browning level
• Press lever downward to begin toasting
• Toast will rise automatically when complete

Dishwasher – SMEG - Click here for online user manual.

• Lightly rinse dishes before use
• Load dishes with the dirty side facing inward
• Ensure spray arms can move freely
• Add dishwasher detergent only
• Select preferred wash cycle
• Press Start to begin

Please do not use regular dish soap.

Fridge and Freezer – SMEG - Click here for online user manual.

Recommended temperatures:

• Refrigerator: 3–5°C
• Freezer: –18°C

Please avoid leaving doors open for extended periods.

Oven – SMEG - Click here for online user manual.

• Left knob selects cooking mode
• Right knob controls temperature
• Pre-heating is recommended before cooking
• Return both knobs to OFF when finished

Cooktop – SMEG - Click here for online user manual.

• Match knob to desired cooking zone
• Adjust heat level as required
• Return knob to OFF when finished

Hood Ventilation – SMEG - Click here for online user manual.

• Press the Power button to activate
• Select desired fan speed
• Use light button if needed
• Turn off after cooking

Food Storage and Waste Disposal

To help protect wildlife and maintain cleanliness throughout the property:

• Store food in sealed containers or refrigerated spaces
• Do not leave food outdoors or unattended
• Dispose of waste using designated bins
• Keep garbage lids securely closed

Please help us protect the surrounding environment by disposing of waste responsibly. If you require waste to be collected during your stay, please contact us: +1 (902) 776-0322.

Washer and Dryer

Each chalet includes a washer and dryer for guest use.

For best results:

• Empty pockets before washing
• Avoid overloading machines
• Follow machine instructions carefully

Laundry detergent is provided for your convenience.

Ironing Board and Drying Rack

An ironing board, iron, and drying rack are available within the chalet.

Please place drying racks indoors or on balconies only.

Housekeeping

Regular housekeeping is not included during shorter stays.

For stays of seven days or longer, our housekeeping team will provide a complete clean during your stay.

Lost and Found

If you believe you have left an item behind, please contact us directly.

Found items are documented and stored according to property procedures.

Television and Streaming

Major streaming apps are pre-installed on all TVs for your convenience. Please remember to log out of your personal accounts before departure.

Wi-Fi

Complimentary high speed internet is available throughout the property. Each unit has its own private Wi-Fi access. To connect, simply scan the QR code or manually enter the network name (Townhouse00X) and password found on the Wi-Fi access card located on the kitchen island.

Charging and Outlets

Standard North American outlets are provided throughout the chalet. Bedrooms all have multi-purpose outlets: standard grounded 110V outlets, USB-C and USB-A.

Linens and Towels

Additional towels, pillows, blankets, and bedding are stored in hallway closets.

Beach towels are stored separately. Please do not use bath towels at the beach.

If you require fresh towels during your stay, please contact us.

Storage

Closets, shelving, and luggage racks are available in each chalet.

Some cupboards are reserved for housekeeping and maintenance use.

Skis, snowboards, and bicycles may be stored in the designated storage room.

Bathrooms

Water pressure may vary slightly during peak usage times.

Each bathroom includes:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Body wash
• Hand soap
• Body lotion
• Hair dryer

Additional items may be available upon request.

Balconies, Decks, and Patios

Outdoor spaces are intended to be enjoyed respectfully and safely.

Please:

• Avoid leaning on railings
• Use designated smoking areas only
• Keep outdoor areas clean and free of food waste
• Respect quiet hours between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM

Trails and Shoreline Access

Guests are welcome to explore surrounding trails and shoreline areas.

For safety:

• Stay on marked paths
• Supervise children near the water
• Use caution on wet or uneven surfaces
• Follow all posted fire restrictions

Parking and Vehicles

Guest parking is available near each chalet.

Please:

• Park only in designated areas
• Avoid driving on lawns or trails
• Observe the 10 km/h speed limit throughout the property

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency, please contact 911 immediately.

Fire Safety

Please familiarize yourself with exits and emergency access points upon arrival.

Severe Weather

Weather in Cape Breton can change quickly.

During severe weather:

• Secure all windows and doors
• Avoid shoreline areas during storms
• Follow any instructions provided by property staff

Security Tips

For your security:

• Lock all doors (front doors are locked by default) and windows when leaving
• Do not leave valuables unattended
• Report suspicious activity immediately

Check-Out

Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Before departure, we kindly ask guests to:

• Wash used dishes
• Dispose of garbage appropriately
• Turn off lights
• Ensure windows are closed
• Confirm BBQs are extinguished after use
• Log out of personal streaming accounts before check out.

If you experience any issues during departure, please contact our team directly.

+1 (902) 776-0322

Feedback and Reviews

Thank you for staying with us.

If you enjoyed your experience at Cormorant Rock, we would greatly appreciate a review on Google or your booking platform. - Leave a Google review here.

If anything during your stay did not meet expectations, please contact us directly so we can make it right.

Returning Guests

We would be delighted to welcome you back.

Returning guests receive preferred rates and direct booking benefits whenever possible.

To book your next stay:

• www.cormorantrock.ca
• info@cormorantrock.ca

Reservations and Payments

Q: How can I make a reservation?

A: Reservations may be made directly through our website, Booking.com, or by contacting us.

Q: Can I change or cancel my reservation?

A: Reservation changes and cancellations depend on your booking terms.

Q: What forms of payment are accepted?

A: We accept all major credit cards and e-transfer.

Check-In and Check-Out

Q: Can I request an early check-in or late check-out?

A: Requests are subject to availability.

Q: How do I check in?

A: Detailed check-in instructions are provided two days prior to your arrival.

Housekeeping

Q: Is daily housekeeping included?

A: Regular housekeeping is not included during shorter stays.

Q: How do I request housekeeping service?

A: Please place the “Make My Room” sign outside your door before noon.

Amenities

Q: Do chalets include kitchens?

A: Yes. Kitchens include cookware, dishes, appliances, utensils, and essentials.

Q: Is Wi-Fi available?

A: Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is provided.

Q: Are towels and toiletries included?

A: Yes, towels, linens, and toiletries are included.

Property Rules

Q: Are pets allowed?

A: Please contact us in advance regarding pet-friendly accommodations.

Q: Is smoking permitted?

A: Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.

Q: Are gatherings permitted?

A: Please contact us in advance regarding visitors or gatherings.

Parking and Transportation

Q: Is parking available?

A: Complimentary parking is available on-site.

Q: How do I reach Cormorant Rock?

A: Directions are available through our website and Google Maps.

Emergency and Safety

Q: What should I do during an emergency?

A: Call 911 immediately.

Q: Is there a first aid kit available?

A: Yes, a basic first aid kit is located within each chalet.

Contact

Q: How can I contact the property?

A: Please contact us at info@cormorantrock.ca or by phone: +1 (902) 776-0322.

First Floor

• 01 – Entrance Hall
• 02 – Utility and Laundry Room
• 03 – Bathroom
• 04 – Living Room and Kitchen
• 05 – Outdoor Terrace

Second Floor

• 11 – Corridor and Staircase
• 12 – Bathroom
• 13 – Main Bedroom
• 14 – Bedroom
• 15 – Bedroom
• 16 – Bathroom