Motel

Cornerstone Motel

4.5 · 229 reviews 16537 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp, NS B0E 1H0, Canada

Seasonal 1950s motel on 10 acres near ocean and Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking.

Seasonal Stay Nature Access Historic Motel Cozy Atmosphere Family Friendly
At a glance

Quick stay signals

Six signals to read the stay at a glance.

Wi-Fi Free
Parking Free
Microwaves In rooms
Location Near ocean & park
Seasonal Open seasonally
Editorial

Hotel overview

Set across 10 peaceful acres along the scenic Cabot Trail, this vintage 1950s motel invites travelers seeking a laid-back retreat close to nature. Its simple, air-conditioned rooms feature free Wi-Fi and microwaves, providing the essential comforts for relaxed stays. While the décor leans toward classic charm, some guestrooms include kitchenettes to accommodate families or longer visits.

Positioned just steps from the ocean and a short drive from the entrance to Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the motel serves as a quiet base for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore nearby walking trails and cultural sites. Owners are praised for their warmth and local knowledge, adding a welcoming touch to each stay. Despite lacking some modern amenities like a pool or airport shuttle, the property emphasizes tranquility and natural surroundings, favoring travelers who appreciate simplicity and ease of access to the outdoors.

Stand-out signals

What makes this stay stand out

Three signals that shape how this stay actually feels.

Close to Nature

Minutes from hiking trails and Cape Breton Highlands National Park for outdoor adventure.

Welcoming Hosts

Owners known for friendly care and insider tips on local sights and dining.

Vintage Charm

Classic 1950s motel offering simple, nostalgic accommodations with modern essentials.

Hotel album

A closer look at the resort

Rooms, common spaces and the small details that shape the stay. Click any photo to view larger.

9 photos
Guest reviews

What travelers say

A snapshot of guest ratings and stories behind the stay.

4.5 / 5

229 verified guest reviews

  • 5 69%
  • 4 22%
  • 3 5%
  • 2 1%
  • 1 3%
Clean Rooms Quiet Location Scenic Views Helpful Hosts Family Friendly Good Wi-Fi

Pleun Van Der Made.

Stayed 3 weeks ago

“Greg and Chaty are incredibly kind people who run this motel together with great passion. Don’t hesitate to ask them anything about the surrounding area — they know a lot about it and are always happy to share tips and explanations. We had a wonderful stay here. From the warm welcome and clear information, we immediately felt completely at ease. The location is also perfect if you’re planning to do the Skyline Trail, as it’s less than a 15-minute drive away. Thank you so much for all the great care and hospitality!”

j johnny.

Stayed 1 month ago

“me and the wife were on our honeymoon, couldn't get a room that day ,so we had dinner then headed out of cheticamp, we decided we will keep driving until we found a motel to stop for the night so we can start the trail early ,first stop outside of cheticamp was cornerstone ,if it wasn't for luck they had 1 room left the owners helped us out ,great people great place definitely will be back hospitality was awsome ,place very clean ,awsome view ,very quiet as well ! again thanks to the owners well done !”

MBWilson.

Stayed 1 month ago

“Great location just outside the National Park and close to amenities in Cheticamp. We had a great view of the river from our room. The rooms are very clean, but a bit dated now, which they said they were working on. Greg and Cathy were fantastic hosts, gave great advice for dining and things to do in the area. Will definitely go back next time in the area.”

Dee Popko.

Stayed 2 month ago

“I’ve enjoyed many different accommodations along the Cabot Trial but have been most impressed with our recent stay at the Cornerstone Motel! My husband and I were booked for three nights in one of the Queen Suites. Pristine, quiet, scenic, perfectly located within walking distance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park's Information Center, and seconds from a wide variety of restaurants! A high five to the owners, Cathy and Greg, and their staff for providing amazing accommodations at a very reasonable price.”

Bob and Marie Cooper.

Stayed 3 month ago

“We loved our stay here! Owners Greg and Cathy were so helpful and gave us tips on where to go and what to see. Our motel room looked out on the Cheticamp River and the autumn view was spectacular. They even have walking trails on the motel property. Our bed was super comfy and the room was spotless. The motel is literally right beside the start of the breathtaking Cabot Trail. Would highly recommend The Cornerstone. Hope to go back someday!”

David Nines.

Stayed 3 month ago

“We enjoyed our 2 night stay at the Cornerstone Motel. It was the perfect stop after spending the day exploring Cape Breton Highlands. The room and property was very nice. Benches along the Cheticamp River was a nice to spend the last part of the day. The owners were very nice and gave us great recommendations for dinner in Cheticamp.”

Based on verified guest reviews
What’s on site

Amenities and services

Everything available — and what isn’t — across the property.

6included 6not available

Most loved

Free Wi-Fi Free parking Air-conditioned Kid-friendly Kitchens in some rooms Smoke-free
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Air-conditioned
  • Kid-friendly
  • Kitchens in some rooms
  • Smoke-free
  • Breakfast
  • Accessible
  • Pool
  • Pet-friendly
  • Airport shuttle
  • Fitness center
Place & surroundings

Location and nearby

Where the hotel sits — and what travelers can reach nearby.

Getting around

  • J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport Accessible by car, approximately 2 hours 18 minutes drive.
    2 hr 18 min
  • Skyline Trail Popular loop trail offering panoramic ocean vistas in the national park.
    7 km
  • Acadian Trailhead Well-reviewed scenic path near local cultural highlights.
    Nearby
  • Les Trois Pignons Cultural Center Local cultural venue showcasing Acadian heritage and events.
    Nearby
Practical guide

Stay essentials

Practical details to know before you check in.

Internet

Complimentary free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Parking

Free on-site parking available for guests.

Season

Open seasonally; check availability before booking.

Accessibility

No designated accessible rooms.

Breakfast

No breakfast service available on-site.

Climate Control

Air conditioning provided in rooms.

Kitchen

Some rooms include kitchenettes with microwaves.

Smoking

Entire property is smoke-free.

Questions travelers ask

FAQ

Yes, free parking is provided on-site for all guests.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

The motel does not accept pets on the premises.

The park entrance lies about 7 km from the motel, easily reached by car.

There is no breakfast service offered at the motel.

Accessible rooms or facilities are not available at this location.

Some rooms include kitchens or kitchenettes with microwaves.
For hoteliers

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