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Welcome to the Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat the first accommodations business to cater to motorcyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts in Atlantic Canada. Our vision of opening a retreat for bikers began in 2006 while visiting beautiful Cape Breton and riding the world famous Cabot Trail. We envisioned a biker’s haven that would consist of a café, lodgings and resort style social community for all those traversing the Cabot Trail. As motorcyclists we realized right away that no one in the Region was paying attention to this extensive bike culture that exists in Nova Scotia not to mention the rest of the Maritime region.
Phase 1: Our dream becomes reality
The Motorcycle Retreat: We jumped in with both feet and bought the Middle River homestead in July 2006 only 2 months after visiting the island. We knew at that point there was no looking back so with a little trepidation and some sacrafices along the way we left our lucrative jobs in Toronto, rented out the house and moved to Middle River, Cape Breton to renovate a century old home.
Open for Business? You Bet!!
In the spring of 2008 we anxiously opened our doors and although there was still so much to accomplish (a garage to erect, driveway to gravel, landscaping, more interior decorating and the endless detailing) it didn’t stop the emails and phone messages from coming in and requesting bookings. We knew we hit the sweet spot when our guests and supporters kept telling us we made the right move and that “it was about time someone catered to this growing niche market”. It was like test driving your shiny brand new dream bike, thrilling and exhilarating but you’re so nervous you might drop it! The concept was a success and the feedback reminded us of it whenever it became a bit overwhelming.
Phase II: The Cabot Trail Motorcycle Café
The idea behind the Café originally came before the Retreat but as life would have it our path guided us to open the bed and breakfast first. We are so glad we did! Although our research led us to believe it was a great idea we learned so much from living on the island that much of our original ideas for the café have changed, most importantly our location. We found that Cheticamp by far is the most logical place for our new business venture it’s a warm and welcoming community especially for motorcyclists. As for the other concepts behind the Café well you’ll just have to visit us when we’re open.
Phase III: The Retreat Expands
Moving away from the bed and breakfast business is only our way of expanding the Retreat into a one stop vacation destination for motorcyclist’s travelling to Cape Breton. Camping, bunkers and cabins, a social pavilion with themed events, music and simply put a place to rest and enjoy this wonderful culture motorcyclists share. Stay tuned!
