The Skunks Are Really Missin Out!

 Cape Breton Island is technically part of the province Nova Scotia, but lies North-east of the     mainland and is separated by the Canso Strait. (1)   To artificially connect Nova Scotia to the island, the Canso Causeway was built, and completed in 1955. (7)The origin of the word "Canso" is thought to come from the Nova Scotian Native Tribe,'Miqmak' word kamsok, meaning "opposite the lofty cliffs." (2)

It is the deepest causeway in the world! 65 metres deep, and more than 1,000 metres long!  The causeway not only connects road and rail traffic to the island, but also allows marine traffic to pass.



 The Causeway prevents ice from entering the strait, making year-round navigation possible for even the largest ships(7) It seems only the skunks couldn't make it over the causeway! Although skunks populate Nova Scotias mainland, there are NO skunks on the island!....no complaints here!                                                                                                                                                  

John Cabot (his real name was Giovanni Caboto) reportedly visited the island in 1497. This would make him the first Renaissance European explorer to visit present-day Canada. However, historians are unclear as to whether Cabot first visited Newfoundland or Cape Breton Island. (7) This alleged discovery is commemorated by Cape Breton's Cabot Trail!

I have had the pleasure or touring this trail, and I can say-it really speaks for itself! It's really something else. I think anyone who goes there will have a great time, and leave with a feeling of renewal. Being in a place such as this rekindles the connection you feel to all around you, and will remind you of life, and living. 

Sources

(1)http://www.worldinterestingfacts.com/nature/top-5-most-beautiful-islands-in-the-world.html

(2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canso_Causeway

(7) http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Cape_Breton_Island

(and we can't forget the Cape Breton Locals!)