By Plane to Halifax, Nova Scotia

It is best to fly to Halifax. When booking your flight try to arrive at Halifax airport by 11:30 am, which leaves time for plane delays and customs and immigration clearance if you wish to continue your journey the same day to the Abbey by bus or shuttle. Return flights should be scheduled no earlier than 3:00 pm.

Travelling by Car From Mainland of Nova Scotia

Take the Trans-Canada 104 to the causeway to Cape Breton Island.

Take 105 off the traffic circle there to Whycocomagh (also the highway to Baddeck and Sydney).

Turn left at Whycocomagh to 395 then follow highway past Lake Ainslie, Scotsville and Upper Margaree to T-intersection (about 50 kms.) Turn right and follow highway to the next T-intersection at Margaree Forks. (5-10 min.)

Turn left and continue through Cheticamp and over MacKenzie Mountain through the Highlands National Park to Pleasant Bay.

Turn left at the sign to Red River, at a disused gas station. Proceed along this paved road and you will enter the small township of Red River where the road becomes gravel/dirt across a small bridge.

Keep going for the another 3 kms or so and watch for the Gampo Abbey sign on your left.

Driving Times (approximate):

• Halifax to Antigonish 3 Hrs.
• Antigonish to Whycocomagh 1 Hr.
• Whycocomagh to Cheticamp 1 Hr.
• Cheticamp to Gampo Abbey 1 Hr.

Total Trip: 5.5 to 6.5 hours

Gas and Weather – Be Prepared

The last gas stations on your way are in Cheticamp.

Weather on MacKenzie Mountain can be intense. During Spring, Fall, and Winter, if there is any risk of snow or freezing rain, ask for road conditions before leaving Cheticamp or phone (800) 307-7669 or (902) 224-2041.