Travel Nova Scotia by Motorcycle

Halifax to North Sydney

2014-02-14T13:17:00.000-08:00

I got up for breakfast feeling like I had not slept at all, in spite of the wonderful bed at the Chocolate Lake Best Western.

A wonderful cup of coffee revived me nicely and after getting fuelled up I headed down to my packed bike. I was meeting some of the boys from CAV at a Timmy’s parking lot and they were going to escort me as far as Truro.

We rode through Stewiacke and into Mastodon Ridge via some beautiful secondary roads with lovely twists and the ever-incredible Nova Scotia scenery.

Mastodon Ridge is a park with a mini golf course, an art gallery at the edge of Stewiacke.

We stopped for fuel, coffee and hugs and pretty soon I was riding by myself. Jason Rourke of 2 CAV in Cape Breton was going to be meeting me at the Canso Causeway’s Big Irving gas stop to escort me to the Ferry.

On my way to hook up with Jason

I decided to stop in Pictou and take in the Hector Heritage Quay Museum and to stop in at the world famous Grohmann Knives.

Known as the birthplace of New Scotland, Pictou is a pretty picturesque place whose roots go back to 1,773.

The first stop was Grohmann Knives. The German Czechoslovakian knife maker from Sudetenland who came to Pictou after the Second World War to help found Pictou Cutlery at the behest of the Nova Scotia Government was named Rudolph Grohmann.

I looked around the shop at all of the incredible examples of their workmanship and asked if there was a tour of the. Sadly there was no tour of the factory the day I stopped in, but I was able to get a lesson on the history of this company and the man who designed some of the world’s best knives.

One of Rudolph’s long-standing customers from Quebec had offered to help him get started in Canada if he ever decided to leave his homeland and when he decided to come to Canada he contacted the customer who introduced him to the people who eventually hired him. After the closing of the Pictou Cutlery, he went to work making cannon balls for the Korean War effort and aviation parts.

Frustrated, he built a workshop and began building and designing knives. The private secretary to then Prime Minister MacKenzie King, Deane H. Russell decided it was time Canada had knives made in Canada instead of only the imported variety and he and Rudolph came to work together to design truly Canadian knives. The DH Russel Belt Knife along with other designs won awards around he world and together they went on to design and create three more famous knives. The Trout and Bird, the Army and Survival. Grohmann Knives Limited was formed in 1961 and is still a family run company today.

I headed over to the Hector QuayHeritage village and marvelled at all of the Clan Tartans that I saw hung on the lampposts that line the street. It seemed that they did not repeat themselves but that post after post bore another tartan from another clan.

In 1773 a ship called the Hector landed in Brown’s Point with 189 Scotsmen from the Highlands.

It was the first of many sailings that created a massive immigration and earned Pictou the rightful name of the Birthplace of New Scotland.

The interpretation centre is filled with the artifacts and history of the proud highlanders that settled this region.

It is also home to a full sized replica of the Hector. There is a fully operational blacksmithing and carpenters shop on site too.

Sometimes timing is everything and for me, mine was off. The day I was at the museum, they were doing some work on the main mast of the ship and during the time I was there, they had temporarily halted the tours of the ship itself for safety reasons.

Still, I was able to see and learn a lot about my Scottish ancestors. Time was starting to close in on me and so I headed off wishing I had time to spend in Baddeck or to stop in for a visit at the Middle River Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat and visit Patrick and Angela.

I would have loved to tell them in person how sorry I am that they are closing. Apparently the government will not fix the Middle River West Road, which made CAA’s Worst Road list for Atlantic Canada.

Yes, I have to plan another trip to this province. I have been here three times now and haven’t seen one tenth of what I would like to.

I hooked up with fellow CAV member Jason at the Canso Causeway Irving, the weather had begun to turn a bit, it was becoming overcast so we high tailed it for the Ferry at Sydney. We rode pretty steady only stopping once for fuel.

We got in a little bit early and so we parked the bikes at Tim Horton’s so the gals from the Cape Breton Saddlebags would know I was around and we walked across the street to the A & K Lick-A-Chick for some of their amazing chicken.

We sat outside to eat and low and behold about 10 minutes after we were finished the gals started rolling in. We walked over to greet them and then some of the gang from the CVFR PEI showed up and before you knew it there were about 30 of us in the parking lot.

I got Rita out of her saddlebag and we took a ton of photos, we had some laughs and before you knew it I had to go. I needed to be at the ferry 2 hours before departure.

Jason and the Saddlebags rode me to the ferry and with a few waves and honks, they were gone and I was in a line of about a dozen bikes all waiting to take the ferry to Newfoundland and that my friends is where we will pick it up next week.

I want to thank the guys and dolls of 2 CAV, Sue Cole and Joe Gregoire and all of the people who did so much to make my time in their province as wonderful as it was.

Everyone truly understood that I wanted to ride like a local and experience and feel their province the way they do and man oh man did I ever experience the warmth, the hospitality and the amazing history and lands/seascapes.

All I could think of as I waited in line for that ferry was the song, Farwell to Nova Scotia and it played over and over and over in my head….

VIEW My Nova Scotia photo albums

Halifax

2014-02-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

The room was well appointed with a comfortable bed and I was eager to get out of my gear and into something more comfortable. I was truly looking forward to the morning. Some time to get caught up with tagging photos and videos, answering emails and getting some of the work I needed to do off my plate. I was also eager to go explore some of the Halifax waterfront to see what changes had taken place since I had visited last.

In the morning I was greeted with more glorious sunshine. I headed upstairs to the outdoor patio to have my breakfast and watch people swimming in the lake. I was having a hard time getting motivated to work but I did finally manage to roust myself from the deck and make my way back to the room. At around noon, Red and his lady showed up to take me to the water front.

I was grateful for them let me tell you! There are a number of one-way streets and a whole bunch of construction and I just know I would have spent a lot of time being lost and frustrated.

At about 1 pm we pulled into the waterfront parking area and said our goodbyes.

I grabbed my camera and headed off for a leisurely stroll.

The waterfront is beautifully done and it was filled with people from around the world based on the accents I was hearing.

I stopped and watched this young fellow break dancing for tips – he had drawn himself quite the crowd.

I had some of the best ice cream I have ever eaten at place called Sugah Confectionary & Ice Cream.

My hand paddled ice cream cone filled with bits of butterscotch in hand I went over to the windows and watched chocolates being hand made. The lady I spoke to told me that all of the ingredients that can be, are sourced locally and that they make chocolates in very small batches.

The place is packed to the rafters with all sorts of confections, all Nova Scotia inspired!

I also spent some time in a place called Rum Runners Rum Cake Factory.

Since I am a rum drinker, the name intrigued me so I had to check it out.

Rum Runners is a cake factory that makes the most incredible golden delicacies.

Rum Running was at one time an important, if illicit, trade in Nova Scotia. Out of Cape Breton came one of the most famous Rum Runners of the 20’s, a man named Gordon Stevens. His wife is responsible for the recipe that Rum Runners uses today, but back in the 20’s her recipe was a way to get rum to those suffering from prohibition and authorities that didn’t take kindly to rum being smuggled.

With pecans, coconut and a generous soaking in sweet rich rum, these golden confections are addictive!

I tried a sample and toyed with the idea of buying a cake to take to the room, but I still had a lot of exploring to do. I did however grab their card and am planning on buying a cake through their online store for the holidays!

I meandered along stopping frequently as all along the waterfront there are statues and monuments that speak of the history of Halifax, the harbor and her people. Everywhere you turn there are shops, restaurants and pubs and a variety of attractions to take in.

I had taken my sweet time walking around taking in the sights and sounds, and ended up missing the Maritime Museum but I did get to go to the Alexander Keith’s Brewery Tour.

Although beer is no longer brewed here, the tour provides one of the best history lessons on Halifax and the man known as Alexander Keith, his contributions to the city and beer drinkers.

WHAT A HOOT! If you are ever in Halifax, this is a must do.

The actors in this place are some of the best I have seen.

They are so absorbed in their character and role that you really do get a feel of what it must have been like back in the day. I am not a beer drinker.

I am actually allergic to beer – to be precise, the brewer’s yeast, so I have never really paid attention much to brewers and their history, so for me, this was the ultimate in history lessons.

Alexander Keith’s Brewery is in the same place now as it was back in the 1820’s. The man himself, a Scottish immigrant, was the Mayor of Halifax 3 times and was involved with council for 30 years not to mention being a director of the Bank of Nova Scotia.

He was a Freemason who became the Grand Master for the Maritimes. He was powerful, influential and very charitable.

Now this man came to Canada at the age of 22 and was already a master brewer, a craft he learned in England at an uncle’s business. He started out his brewing career as the head brewer for Charles Boggs; he then became the business manager as well and eventually bought the brewery in 1820.

As the actors move you through the original building in to Keith’s Hall you are truly taken back to the early 1,820’s and until you are done sampling beer in the Stag’s Head Pub, you never feel like you slip back to the present.

The tour takes you through the history, the brewing process and even involves a little singing to go with the beer sampling.

I did try a wee bit of the beer. I tried the India Pale Ale. It was crisp and clean and very refreshing and I had to remind myself, only a little. In spite of that warning I did end up with a vicious headache, but nonetheless I did enjoy my little taste.

At the end of this delightful tour which is going to cost an adult around $19 to include the cost of the 2 beers, you end up in the gift shop and can purchase souvenirs etc. Or you can go finish whetting your appetite in the adjacent pub.

I left Alexander Keith’s and headed back to where I had parked the bike some 5 hours earlier. Of course, I got lost thanks to all of the construction.

I had intended to go and see the Halifax Public Gardens, little did I know that they close down at sunset.

Hopelessly lost, I saw a rider and his wife in a pullout.

After a few pleasantries I asked him if he was from the area and could he help me get back to the Chocolate Lake Best Western. He agreed to guide me and about an hour later I was back at my room and packing up to get ready to head out in the morning.

I had a heck of a time settling down in spite of the comfortable bed. I was going to be getting on a ferry tomorrow, heading to Newfoundland and I was as excited as a four year old who is heading to Disney World!

VIEW My Nova Scotia photo albums.

Yarmouth, Shelburne & Peggy's Cove

2014-02-14T12:14:00.001-08:00

We saddled up and headed out from Yarmouth and the weather was picture perfect – it was another one of those days that every rider lives for, good company, sunshine and next to nothing for wind except the wind our machines create.

There was a toy run being held at Barrington and so we rode to the Tim Horton’s, which was the staging area for the local riders to gather. There had to be 70 bikes there all getting ready to ride out and meet the others who would be partaking that morning. It was fabulous to get the chance to meet so many that I have only, until now, known on the Internet.

Our little group was heading to Shelburne to take in some of the sights, we wished the Toy Run riders well and soon we were heading down some gorgeous highway through little places like Port Mouton and on into Shelburne.

Shelburne was amazing, utterly incredible and it is famous for a few reasons.

Number one, it was the 4th largest community in North America in 1783 and when 3,000 Empire Loyalists came to the region, the population swelled to over 10,000. Birchtown, not very far away became the first free Black settlement in Canada as a result of that immigration.

There is one other thing that Shelburne is famous for and that is being the set for the Scarlet Letter featuring Demi Moore and Robert Duvall. Because the filmmakers wanted the town to be exactly as it was in the 1,700’s, the movies producers paid to have the overhead power lines buried and left the rebuilt market square behind for the community and it’s visitors to enjoy.

With no overhead power lines, the views are unfettered and clean, making this, a photographer’s paradise.

The narrow little streets are reminiscent of the times when this place was built, and everyone is courteous and considerate of each other.

We took in the Shelburne County Museum, the JC Williams Dory Shop and the Ross-Thompson House and Store. The Dory shop is located on the waterfront and is the last of 7 shops of it’s kind to still stand. The dory is considered one of the most important of the small boats in Atlantic Canada and New England history and the JC Williams Dory Shop at it’s peak built 350 dory’s a year employing up to 7 craftsmen.

It was a trip to walk through the museum, see the tools of the day and see what the construction of a dory entailed. Dory making is still alive and well in Shelburne thanks to the craftsmanship of a gentleman named Milford Buchannan. He is a Master Dory Builder who possesses a Wooden Boat Building Certificate.

If you’d like a traditional Shelburne Dory – he’ll even build one for you!

The Shelburne County Museum is just across the road and offers a unique look into the history of ship building in the region along with many historical archives. The place is packed with amazing antiques that all play a role in telling about the history of the Loyalists of the American Revolution who settled here.

The Ross – George and Robert Ross, sons of a Scottish merchant, founded Ross - Thompson House and Store in 1784.

They sold pine boards, cod and pickled herring in foreign ports and brought back salt, molasses and many other goods that were needed in the region.

The store operated for over 100 years and closed for business in 1880. Today the store and house are an interactive museum with the staff dressed in the garb of the time. And the buildings have been restored to what they were in the 1820’s.

If walls could talk something tells me this building would have a lot to say. Every room is filled with goods, images and artifacts of what it was like to live in Shelburne during those times and the actors are superb at making you feel that you just stepped back in time.

The place is in magnificent shape as are all of the artifacts.

I enjoyed my time in Shelburne and would love to go back to stay for a few days.

Our little group headed off for the meeting point with 2 CAV’s Battle of Atlantic Unit. We didn’t spend a whole lot of time jibber jabbering, as we had to get me to Halifax and the Chocolate Lake Best Western if I was going to be there on time for our ride to Peggy’s Cove.

I said my goodbyes to Joe and Doc and was left in the capable hands of Brenden – Big Mac and Chris – Red.

In all there were six bikes that headed for Mahone Bay.

We stopped in this gorgeous, gorgeous little community because I wanted to see the famous churches.

There are many things I would have loved to take in, in this most picturesque community, but alas, there was no time. I would have loved to see the DesBrisay Museum that had been founded in 1880. I would have also liked to take one of the 2 historical walking tours.

And I will, when I go back to Nova Scotia. I have to come back here; there is just no way around it. The riding is simply, absolutely stupendous. The people are so kind and warm, the food is fabulous and the scenery and history envelope you.

Pretty soon the group headed out, some of the group was going to have to leave us long the route to Chocolate Lake, other obligations had to be attended to and that would leave Brenden and Red to ride me into town.

I checked in at the Chocolate Lake Best Western, the staff in this place is something to be appreciated, efficient, friendly and fast. I appreciated the kick stand puck and wipe down cloth I was given at check in. (They came in handy more than once!)

Once my gear was unloaded and he knew I was taken care of, Brenden headed off to take care of a few things he had to do. He would not join us for the evening ride. Red and I went to a great fish and chip joint for a bit to eat and headed back to the hotel to meet up with those who were going to ride with us to Peggy’s Cove.

I had not been at Peggy’s Cove since 1986 when I had been to a Harley-Davidson Dealer’s Convention in Halifax and I was eager to go back. The place is glorious and I had heard that the ride in was spectacular.

Spectacular does not begin to cut it! There are no words to describe that ride or the views it takes you to.The visitor’s center was closed, but I still managed to learn a great deal about this place from Red who took the time to answer every one of my many questions.

The Lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove in St. Margaret’s Bay was built in 1915 and it had a post office in it on the ground floor until 2009!

The Swiss Air 111 Memorial sites are located here in the community of St Margaret’s Bay, along with the communities of Bayswater and Whales Back.

There are not enough hours in the day to take in everything one would like to but I was grateful to have gotten to see and do as much as I had on this day.

We stayed until the sun went down and I got some of the most amazing sunset shots.

We rode back to my hotel and Red promised to stop in with his lady in the morning to escort me downtown to the Halifax waterfront so that I could go explore.

Yarmouth

2014-02-14T11:44:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I love the Comfort Inns for the services and amenities that they offer and they are getting a facelift right across the country.

Tammy Nickerson and her staff in Yarmouth were among the first to experience what this transformation into this modern, comfortable and fresh environment would be like for themselves and their customers.

The place is truly “Comfort” able. The renovations are going to make this chain stand out in offering the ultimate in convenience and comfort, more so than any time in recent memory. Bravo gang – the place looks wonderful and is still staffed by great people!

After having my breakfast, I grabbed a coffee and some creamer and took it with me to the room; it was time to get sleeping beauty up.

Willie had his coffee and talked to PackRat, Joe Paquette to find out what this day might hold. It was super foggy out so it was a cinch that Willie would not be riding back to Greenwood yet.

Joe and his lovely wife Jo picked Willie and I up and took us to the Farmer’s Market.

Situated in a historic area of town, the Farmer’s Market is filled with an eclectic mix of vendors. I got to taste some Tidal Wine from the Annapolis Highland Vineyards winery and although it was tasty I still enjoyed the one from the Grand Pre Winery better. While I was talking to some of the various exhibitors, Jo had gotten herself some stunning lilies to plant in her garden and Willie and Joe wandered around sampling tidbits from the various vendors.

After meandering through the vendor’s booths, with offerings of everything from meals to art, we grabbed coffees and headed outside to the picnic tables. The music from the entertainer that had just taken the stage inside was wafting gently around us, and we found ourselves singing along and just enjoying.

We discussed the various things going on in Yarmouth and decided that we would have lunch at a festival called “A Taste of Yarmouth”.

But first we decided a walk along the pier was in order. The Yarmouth harbor is filled with ships and boats of all sizes and colors. Even in the fog it was impressive.

We drove down the street a ways and parked and as we stepped out of Joe’s truck the smells drifting from the tents had a persons mouth watering almost instantly.

For $2 you could buy a ticket to have sample sizes of everything from clam chowder to mussels and everything in between. I met some of the town’s councillors who are appropriately proud of their community and it’s offerings and it was nice to have them on hand greeting the public, somehow I felt like I was a part of the community because of that.

My favorite was the seafood casserole served up by the volunteers of the Acadian Village and the fish cakes that were offered up in the Yarmouth community booth. OK, I enjoyed the hell out of the mussels too….

With bellies full and a bank of fog still hugging the harbor, we decided it was time to go for a

drive.

We headed off to Cape Forchu. As we drove we watched the fog roll in and out, in and out. It made the short drive a little eerie.

We went to the Stanley Lobster Company so I could see tanks of lobsters and how they are kept fresh while waiting to be shipped to various restaurants and customers across the country. This place is so cool – no literally it can’t be more than 2-3 degrees inside. Big tanks of fresh seawater filled with crates that have lobsters in little cubbyholes with rubber bands on their claws so they can’t hurt each other or their handlers all kept very cold.

Lobsters metabolisms slow right down in the cold and so even though they may have been caught a month ago, they aren’t aging per se. We got to see a few monsters – 20 pounders that are babied and nurtured because of their monstrous sizes but also because of their unique colors.

After our tour of the lobster tanks, we walked along the beach to see where the Stanley Lobster Company customers go to eat their magnificent feeds of lobster that are cooked in an out door kitchen.

Customers have the choice of eating at picnic tables or inside a very small restaurant, again located on the beach.

I thanked our tour guide, Brian for his time and soon we were back in the truck and off to the farthest point of the cape. The fog was beginning to lift and the sun was coming out in its full glory.

The twisty little road that took us to the Cape Forchu Lightstation and the Light Keepers Residence was filled with amazing scenery. Rugged coastline, boats out on the water and Yarmouth off in the distance.

Samuel de Champlain named Cape Forchu, which means forked cape, in 1604.

As we approached the lighthouse the fog had almost completely lifted and the views became more and more impressive.

The lighthouse stands on an immense volcanic rock precipice that looks out over the harbour and sea.

The very first of the “Apple Core” lighthouses, it has served as a beacon to ships captains since 1840.

The craggy and magnificent the landscape makes one feel
so very small and vulnerable.

The Lighthouse today is a visitor’s center that sits on 19 acres of well-groomed land and features mariner’s monuments, a huge lawn chair that just begs to be climbed and sat in and of course the Light Keepers Residence, two gift shops and a tea room.

Inside the Light Keepers Residence there are artifacts from generations of light keepers who have lived here.

We wandered around soaking up the sun and marvelling at the scenery.

Soon it was time to head to our next destination – the Memorial Monument at the Yarmouth School.

I wanted to get some shots of this impressive monument in the glorious sunshine. Last week I told you about the inspiring kids and their teacher who worked tirelessly to fundraise and design this monument.

You can feel the love here. That is no overstatement either. I took some time to just reflect on the names, finding Corporal Mike Starker’s name I said a prayer and shed a tear or two – his memory is not forgotten and neither are the names of the other 157 who gave their lives defending those who could not defend themselves in Afghanistan.

Sitting here today, thinking about that monument still brings goose bumps out and makes me shiver with emotion. The young people and their teacher who so lovingly worked to make this monument a reality are forever to be held in esteem for walking the talk.

Pretty soon it was time to take Willie back to his bike at the Comfort Inn. On the way there we stopped at the old water trough monument so I could get some photos. Once Willie was packed up and on his way, Joe, Jo and I headed over to their place. We shared glass of wine and reminisced about the day and made our plans for dinner.

We were going to Rudders for lobster. Now I am told that the Stanley Lobster Company serves up the best lobster dinner in the region, and that Rudders is as close to first as you can get. The place was buzzing, filled with people and music, the smells of really good food hung in the air with a pungent invitation to gorge ones self. And gorge myself I did.

The lobster was cooked to perfection, our waitress had a sense of humour that had us all belly laughing and her

service was impeccable. When it came time to leave, I have to admit it was difficult. Joe and his beautiful wife are two of the kindest, sweetest people I have ever met.

They dropped me off at the Comfort Inn, Joe promising to come grab me in the morning to escort me to the next group of CAV members who would be my escorts.

I did some work, packed up my bike and settled in for a good night’s sleep. It had felt so good to have a day off of the bike and recharge my batteries a bit. In the morning I was up bright and early – it was another glorious sun filled morning and I was going to get to have a visit with Tammy Nickerson, the manager of this Comfort Inn, to talk about the renovations and just catch up with her.

Westmont Hospitality Group manages many of the Comfort Inns in Canada, I am not sure how or why, but this company is filled with some of the most amazing women it has ever been my pleasure to meet and Tammy Nickerson is one of those women. Warm and inviting, her smile lights up a room and her attitude rubs off on her staff that treat everyone with amazing grace and hospitality even when she’s not there.

Tammy and her man ride and that makes coming to her hotel all the sweeter because her staff know exactly what a rider needs. It makes a great experience fantastic!

After coffee and breakfast and a good gab it was time to head out. Joe and Doc along with Doc’s young son were waiting for me.

Greenwood, Grand-Pré, Grand-Pré Winery

2014-02-14T10:44:00.003-08:00

I stayed at Sue and Joe’s place for the night and was up bright and early and had Blacky ready to go to the shop, I rode her over and met Ron Smith and his partner Jenni Hamm.

Ron is a wicked automotive mechanic who rides and he had the old girl’s oils starting to drain before I could say hey!

Ron is a character, he’s obviously well thought of too based on the customers that were coming in and thanking him, chatting with him. At one point my stomach started to growl and before I knew it Ron threw me the keys to his pick up and told me to go grab myself some breakfast before the growling got any louder! I was famished. I headed out in the pick up looking for this little restaurant that I can’t remember the name of. The food was good but the portions were small and the service was some slow – maybe that’s why I can’t remember the name! I headed back to the shop to see how my girl was doing and Darren from the CAV stopped in. He’d just gotten off duty and wanted to make arrangements for the next morning meet up and ride out with the CAV.

About noon my bike was to go. Ron had pointed out that I had what looked like an oil leak starting in a push rod. Thankfully it turned out to be a loose head bolt causing the slobbering and it was running down the side of the push rod tube and pooling at the base…bolt tightened, oil cleaned up and I was sent on my way with a hug and a reminder to keep an eye on that bolt.

I headed back to Sue and Joe’s place, said my goodbyes and headed back towards Windsor. I had a lot of sight seeing to do.

I went to Grande Pre Historical Site first. My Acadian roots were calling and I had heard so much about this place that I could not pass up the chance to explore.

Grande Pre in French means large meadow and it was here in 1680 that the first French people landed to form a colony on the shores of the Minas Basin. They built dike to
hold the ocean back and that offered them very rich and fertile land for pastures and growing crops. Port Royal became the major community and by the mid 1,700’s it was the largest of the many Acadian communities that had grown around the Bay of Fundy. The Minas area was known as the bread-basket for the region the Acadians prospered.

In the year 1713, Port Royal had become known as Annapolis Royal and the region of Grande Pre came under British Rule when the region became known as Nova Scotia. The Acadians chose to stay in spite of being asked to swear an oath of allegiance to the king and crown of Great Britain.

Many signed what was known as a conditional oath when they were promised they would not be forced to take up arms against France or the Mi’kmaq nation.

When England and France declared war in 1744 tensions and troubles began in earnest for the Acadians.

Halifax was the new capital of the British Colony and yet the majority of those who lived in the colony were Acadian. The French were living on the richest land in the region and the British wanted to bring more Protestants into the area.

In 1755, with their boats and guns confiscated, and delegates who had been sent to Halifax to present a petition to the British imprisoned, the Acadians of the Minas area were in a precarious position.

Lieutenant Colonel John Winslow arrived with his troops on August 19, 1755 and made is headquarters in the church.

On September 5th all of the men and boys in the region were ordered to gather only to have Winslow tell them that everything but their most personal of possessions were being forfeited to the Crown and that hey were being deported. 6,000 people from all over Nova Scotia, but primarily form the Minas Basin region were deported; their homes and villages were burned to the ground. Peace would not be restored to the area until 1763 when England and France ended the war. In the meantime, thousands more were deported, over the 8 years of the war, over 10,000 Acadians would be removed.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem, Evangeline, was published in the United States in 1847, and the story of the Deportation and the Great Upheaval, was told to the English-speaking world for the first time. Grand-Pré, forgotten for almost a century became popular for American tourists anxious to visit the birthplace of the poem's heroine, Evangeline. But there was nothing really left to see.

In 1920 the DAR – the Dominion Atlantic Railway who now owned the property erected a statue of Evangeline conceived by Canadian sculptor Philippe Hébert finished by his son Henri after Phillipe’s death.

Later in 1922, on a piece of land that was deeded to them, la Société l'Assomption, a mutual insurance company owned and managed by Acadians and the Société Nationale l'Assomption, an advocacy organization, a committee raised funds to build a commemorative church in Grand Pré, the construction began and the church

was completed in 1930 for the 175th anniversary of the Deportation, when it opened as a museum.

The commemorative church committee erected a cross, in 1924, two kilometres from the church, in memory of the Deportation. The cross was moved in 2005 and is now located at Horton Landing, on the edge of the Minas Basin.

The government of Canada acquired Grand-Pré in 1957 and it was designated a national historic site in 1961. It is now also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As a person with Acadian ancestors I had known some of the history and as I moved through the exhibits and out to the grounds, the reality of the happy and sad times, the harshness of the times and the war , fear and hatred really hit home.

It was as if the ghosts of my ancestors were there and I could imagine them at different times crying, laughing, screaming.

Yes this place evokes strong emotions and so it should.
I said a prayer at the statue of Evangeline and headed for my bike.

As I headed off to the Grand Pre Winery, I found myself contemplating my Acadian heritage, our country and it’s history and how far we’ve come in so many ways and yet, sadly today we still experience discrimination, fear, greed, contempt it seems people never change, only the struggle.

I rode into the Domaine de Grande Pre parking lot and walked up the steps the gift shop. There was a beautiful water fountain that caught my eye and I stopped for a moment to admire it. I walked into the gift shop and the little gal behind the counter steered me back outside as a tour of the winery and grounds had just begun.

By the time I caught up with the group, they were admiring some L’Acadie Blanc grapes that were growing on the vines.

As I listened to Cacilia Stutz, one of the owners of the winery describe the family’s passion for creating unique to the region wine I thought to myself you guys are on to something. She explained that Nova Scotia has a unique climate for grape growing and by making wine that is suited to those grapes they have come up with some delicious recipes.

The winery and attached restaurant are all family owned.

While we never got to meet Jurg Stutz, the winemaker, we did get an education on his education and the knowledge that has made him one of the best vintners in the region.

After learning about the different grapes they grow we went back to the gift shop which just happens to include a wine tasting bar.

We were treated to some amazing samples of 100% Nova Scotian wines.

We sampled the Cabernet Foch, which was so rich and full bodied without being overly dry.

Made with a grape that is a hybrid of the Cabernet Sauvignon and the winter hardy and disease resistant Maréchal Foch

grape, this wine is pleasant to the nose. You catch a whiff of cherry and spices along with the lush ripeness fo the grapes and the flavor plays on your tongue with deep rich flavours like blackberry undertones with a hint of smoke.

It’s the kind of wine that delivers its flavor in increments, each building on the last. MMMM, oh I didn’t mention I am a red wine FREAK!

Then we sampled the Rose, which is made from the L'Acadie Blanc and Maréchal Foch grapes.

It was light and fresh, not overly sweet but fruity and refreshing. Not to my taste but definitely a great wine if Rose is your thing.

The Tidal Bay was my favorite – made with L’Acadie Blanc grapes this wine was earthy and you could literally taste the ocean in it – without it being salty or tart. Words cannot portray the crisp and yet rich flavour or the body of this wine, so I encourage you to try it. It is truly unique.

Cacilia explained that there are several wineries in the region that were all challenged to make their own version of the Tidal Bay as part of a competition to promote the L’Acadie Blanc grape.

I promised myself I would try some of the other versions if I were given a chance.

The very last wine we tasted was a dessert wine. And it wasn’t made using grapes. It was made using apples.

The Pomme d’Or – Golden Apple was the best dessert wine I have tasted in a long time. I ended up buying a bottle of it and some cheese because I just knew there would be a late night where that might come in handy…

I had called Sue Cole and she decided to come and join me for supper. I figured that since I had had enough wine to make me feel light headed I was going to stay and try out the restaurant here.

While I waited for Sue, I visited the small museum on wine making located in the basement of the gift shop. It’s not very big, but it has some wonderful information and some great examples of different equipment like corkscrews and their evolution.

The restaurant, Le Caveau, was fully booked with a waiting list a mile long. We opted for the deck and shared a table with a couple of the locals who explained that there was going to be a band coming on later and apparently the place fills up every time there is live entertainment.

The food they told us was exquisite; Sue and I decided to try a number of appetizers for supper instead of the larger heavier full meals.

We had scallops that were ammmmazing, a wonderful salad that had a citrus dressing and goat cheese on it and the pate tasting tray. The three pates were accompanied by spice bread, a shallot compote and piccalilli, which is a relish of chopped pickled vegetables and spices. I am so glad that I did not order a big meal; the appies had been rich and more than satisfying.

As the musicians came on around 7:30, Sue and I headed over to the Clockmakers Inn to have a coffee and bit of girls gab. We sat outside on the big wrap around veranda and then moved out to the chairs in the yard to watch the stars. Sue left around 9pm and I headed in doors the get ready for a good nights sleep. I was one tired girl.

Clockmakers Inn, 74th Crusaders & Amazing Kids

2014-02-14T10:00:00.001-08:00

The Clockmakers Inn has a history that reaches back to 1894 when it was built for a wealthy sea captain named Rufus Curry who passed away in 1934.

His wife stayed in the house until 1946 and for the next 10 years this French Chateau styled home was a nursing home called Windsor Manor.

Today the home is a Bed & Breakfast that has been renovated from top to bottom. Every room has its own bathroom, there is Wi-Fi and air-conditioning and all of the modern conveniences like cable TV are available. And yet, history lives on here.

From the original woodwork to the gorgeous grand staircase and stained glass windows this Registered Provincial Heritage Property truly is a testament to the care it’s been given by the Dunham’s.

In total, the Clockmakers Inn offers 8 rooms for guests, with some of them being suites that include kitchenettes! It’s not pet friendly but they do have a business they work with called the Hound Tales Inn that will take your pooch over night.

There are 5 fireplaces and 24 rooms and a wrap around veranda that is simply magnificent in it’s size and the comforts it offers. There is a carriage house where the young Dunham’s live and immense grounds that offer a fair amount of privacy because of the way they are planted.

The house is filled with antiques and hand paintings and it is a marvelous place to stay. The beds were comfortable; the hot water for the shower plentiful and strong, the room was well appointed and breakfast was hot, tasty and plentiful.

The only thing that I did not particularly enjoy was the one child, probably around 3 or 3 1/2 years old, leaving his toys all over the stairs; it made for treacherous stairs with so many people going up and down as they were checking out.

Grandma was doing her best to keep a rein on him but you know what little ones are like.

I had truly enjoyed my stay here. My only regret, as with every other place I have really liked, is that I only got to enjoy it for a bit and then not to it’s fullest either.

Packed up and ready to head out, I gave Darren a quick call to let him know I was leaving.

I was meeting him and one of the other CAV guys, Ollie, in Greenwood for an interview with a reporter from the Aurora Newspaper.

It was an over cast day and it felt like we were in for some rain.

And oh did we get rain!

We had decided we were going to stop in to the 74th Crusaders clubhouse. There was a scooter rally on so we knew the clubhouse would be open. We got there and about 3 minutes later the skies opened up, man was I glad we were done with the gravel road to get into the place!

We hung out had a coffee and I met so many great people – the guys from the scooter rally were seriously crazy people.

I met Joey and Jim and Dave and so many others that I can’t remember their names but they all had one thing in common – they were kind beyond belief. This is a hard working riding club that does some major charity work in their region and it’s too bad that Mother Nature didn’t hold out for us a bit so I could really see the campground they have built here.

The club rents it out to others when they aren’t using it and it’s been the site of weddings and family reunions and crazy scooter rallies!

When the rain finally let up from its absolutely torrential downpour, we jumped on the bikes and headed for Yarmouth. We didn’t stay dry for long.

It poured and the wind howled and it was positively NASTY! There were places we were down to 30 and 40 KPH and it felt like it took forever to get to Yarmouth.

In fact it took over 5 hours to do what should have taken 2 – 2/12 hours!

We had picked up a couple more CAV members about two hours out of Yarmouth where we had to beg at the Tim Horton’s to let our friends little dogs come inside to warm up and thaw out. The young man on duty called his manager, explained the situation and as long as the dogs we constantly being held and not making any noise and we sat in the back, by the door well away from any food we were OK – so that’s what we did.

After a bowl of soup where everyone was taking turns holding the dogs so we could all eat and warm up, we plodded back to the bikes. Riding in this stuff was no fun but we had no choice, I had to be in Yarmouth where my room was, regardless of the fact there would be no ride this night.

Just outside of Yarmouth PackRat was waiting for us at the Afghanistan Memorial at the Yarmouth School.

We spent some time admiring the gorgeous monument – there wasn’t any point thought in trying to dig out the camera.

We rode in to Yarmouth and got me checked in. It was decided that Darren – Willie as we call him would stay with me since I had two beds – it was simply too nasty for him to be riding back to Greenwood.

Everyone went their separate ways but were told that Mr. B and some of his kids were going to drop by and visit us. Willie and I took turns getting disrobed from soggy wet gear and into something dry and warm.

While he had a hot shower and changed, I went to the front desk to find out about take out etc and then remembered, I have wine and cheese. With the help of the front desk gal, she and I scrounged some bagels from the breakfast room to have with the wine and cheese I had gotten the day before, she even found a corkscrew – funny how that happens huh! This was going to be our supper. I asked about laundry facilities and she said no problem, we can dry some of your gear for you.

With that I went back to the room and was assaulted by the smell of stinky wet leather. We had our boots on the heat register and it was turned up on high and the room was beginning to feel like a sauna.

I dropped off the bagels and the corkscrew and headed back to the desk with the stuff that could go in the dryer.

The wind was just howling outside. I kept going to the patio door to check on the bikes that were parked up front under the canopy. We might as well have had them in front of the room because the wind was coming from the exposed direction and they were soaked anyway!

At about 7:30 we got a call that someone was here to meet us – it was Mr. Joe Bishara and students Sam Turpin and Carly Churchill of the Maple Grove/Yarmouth Memorial Club.

In their own words, here is who the Memorial Club is and it’s history:

The Maple Grove/Yarmouth High Schools

Memorial Club began as the “Memorial Committee” in the fall of 1985. It was started by teacher Joe Bishara in response to the apathy and indifference that was being shown towards veterans, seniors and our war dead by both adults and students.

Initially the club consisted of twelve students and their interest was in erecting a monument at Maple Grove Education Centre, in Hebron, Yarmouth Co., N.S. to honour our wardead and Veterans. With the full support of the school principal, Gary Archibald, and under the guidance of Joe Bishara, enough funds were raised by the student body in only three months to erect the monument in May of 1986. The official dedication and unveiling took place in November of 1986, with a large number of veterans and members of the public attending.

The project is the first of its kind in Canada, where students raised thousands of dollars to erect a monument on school grounds to honour the sacrifices of our veterans and perpetuate the memory of our valiant war dead.

Over the years the Memorial Club has grown to average almost 150 junior and senior high school members annually. It expanded to the Yarmouth High School in 1993. The members have written their own constitution, prayer, and pledge. The success of the club stems from the initiative of its members. They decide which functions and events they will take part in. Members of the club volunteer their time by taking part in approximately fifty functions a year. Their volunteer work teaches them the true meaning of respect, sacrifice, volunteering and especially leadership. The average dedicated member amasses over three hundred hours of volunteer service each year.

The Memorial Club could not survive without the full support of the administration and staff of MGEC and a parent support group which organizes fundraising events, event details and chaperoning trips and club meetings.

As I listened to these passionate, passionate young people talk about being in service to their fellow man, the visits to the veterans, the fundraising, the sacrifices they made considering their ages, I was dumbfounded.

There needs to be this kind of initiative in every school across this country and it is my hopes to start spreading the word to schools and students far and wide by helping to build a web page that teaches people everything they need to know on how to start the same kind of program in their region. I am working with Mr. B and Sam on this project.

After the kids and Mr. B left, Willie and I spent some serious time talking about these kids and how could we help get them some recognition – they truly have no idea just how outstanding they really are and they should have all gotten Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for what they had accomplished.

I had a rough night’s sleep listening to Willie snore in the other bed, I was beat but I just couldn’t settle down, thank goodness the next day was going to be a down/sight seeing day – off the bike for a bit I’d be able to really wind down.

From Charlottetown PE to Windsor NS

2014-02-14T09:33:00.004-08:00

After staying up late with the gang from the Military Police National Relay Ride for Blind Children, I headed to me room at the Comfort Inn Charlottetown. The bed was so inviting but It was 3 am before I was able to shut the lights out.

When the alarm went of at 6 am I was groaning. I wanted to stay put in my nice comfy bed, but that wasn’t happening.

I jumped in the shower and let the water beat the crap out of me. I had a wonderful breakfast in the lobby and then headed back to start the laborious process of repacking the bike.

I was heading to Springhill Nova Scotia to hook up with Medric on his the Long Walk to Sanity. His cause is another recipient of 1/3 of the money I would raise on this Conga and I didn’t want to miss him.

I had another picture perfect day of riding ahead of me and I was riding solo for the first time since hitting the New Brunswick border. It was an odd feeling, I must say. I had been enjoying the company.

I pulled into the Spring Hill Nova Scotia Timmy’s and called Medric to see if I had arrived in time to catch him. I was in luck. Next thing I know, Mike Smith and a few of the local riders pull up to meet me. Mike informed me that he’d be riding escort to Windsor with me! Woo Hoo.

A couple minutes later and I see Medric and Thai coming up the street. It was so good to see him. Thai is the service dog that changed Medric’s life for the better; in fact he says she saved his life. PTSD service dogs use their training and natural skills to help a victim become strong again, and Medric was strong, filled with fire and passion to help others find the sanity he had found.

Our time together was short; I had to be in Windsor for a fundraising ride and registrations were beginning at 5 pm. Mike’s buddy, Harvey who owns a tattoo shop in town decided he would join Mike and I. I was asked if I wanted to go on the major highways or take the road less travelled, you know what my answer was.

The guys took me through some of the prettiest riding in the region – and we stopped at a memorial park that simply took my breath away.

The Veterans Memorial Park in Bass River.

There are three gardens in the park, The Garden of Sorrows, The Garden of Remembrance and the Garden of Hope all separated and yet joined by the Cettic Cross in the middle.

The Garden of Sorrow has barbed wire all around it and resembles a First World War trench. From the Garden of Sorrow, you move to the Garden of Remembrance, there are trees, shrubs, daisies, lilies and forget-me-nots. There are benches all around the central podium where the names of those who served mark each stone.

Then you enter the Garden of Hope, with its bright colors and international flavour.

The Doctor who founded and designed the park, Karen Ewing had messages she wanted to deliver and she did it in the most caring and loving of manner.

There is also a memorial to service animals that I thought was a gorgeous final touch.

I didn’t want to leave this place, but I had to, we needed to be in Truro to meet up with a couple of gals from the Valley Shifters that would be joining the Conga into Windsor.

After saying a brief prayer for all who have made this country the amazing place is it, we saddled up and were off.

A ways up the road, Mike pulled over and asked if we had time to stop for a drink and an ice cream, we were making good time so decided a hydration stop wasn’t a bad idea. I decided to text the gals to see if they waned to join us, but they opted to stick with meeting us at the Irving. At least they knew we were in the region! The Masstown Market is an immense place and is home to Captain Cob’s Crazy Corn Maze.

Of course when we were there the corn maze was just growing, sometime I’d like to be there at the right time of year – it’s supposed to be one crazy, crazy maze.

This place also happens to be a favorite stop for area riders. There’s tons of parking, lots of food choices and great ice cream. A large cone and some water was what I indulged in and when that was done it was time to head out again.

Well just as luck would have it we stopped at the wrong Irving, through texts we finally figured out where we were supposed to meet up and headed for the other Irving with the Totem on a road fraught with construction.

We met up with Carla and Jane of the Valley Shifters. With time running short, we didn’t sit and visit long, after all, we were going to be taking the road less travelled which meant we needed to get on that road if we were going to be in Windsor on time.

The country the ladies led us through was filled with curves, hills, farmland and trees and under the bluest of skies we all had grins on our faces!

We pulled into the Clockmaker’s Inn, my home for the next two days. Sean, one of the owners, met us outside, at first I think he was scared that all five riders were planning on staying there.

I explained to him who I was and that the other four were my escorts! He gave me a quick overview of the place – which I was dying to explore but that would have to wait until much later. Bags dropped off, keys in hand, off we went to go and find Sue Cole and Joe Gregoire, the people who had put the ride night together for the Conga.

Once we were all together, we took the coupon for a 15% discount that Sean had given us for the Spitfire Arms Alehouse and have some supper. It was going to be another late, late night for me.

The service at the Alehouse was rather slow, probably because we opted to sit outside on the patio. The food was good but pricey so I was glad we had that coupon!

While we were finishing our meals, the first of the bikes started rolling in for the event. Carla, Jane and I shared hugs as they had to head back to Truro, Mike and Harvey had to head back to Springhill too so a few more hugs and I was off across the way to the Tim Horton’s to get set up for the ride.

Sue handled the registrations and cash, I got Rita out of her saddlebag and went around introducing she and I and getting photos with as many of the riders as possible.

Greg Marr had agreed to be the ride captain for the evening and he and I discussed my needs for filming and speaking to the riders.

Just before 7pm and kickstands up, I got all my cameras ready to go on the bike. Close to 30 bikes headed out for a ride that would wend its way through town and out to some nice twisty riding. We stopped at the parking lot of a Kwik Way convenience store on the edge of town where I talked to the riders and their passengers about the plight of our veterans and service personnel.

It was so rewarding afterwards to have so many people hug me, thank me for sharing what I knew and some of the vets in the group talked to me about their situations and thanked me for helping to spread the word.

It was an amazing feeling, and it reaffirmed why I was out here putting in these killer long days.

We saddled up and headed back to the Tim Horton’s where I thought we’d all be parting company – come to find out there were other plans in store for me.

We were going to be heading to Greenwood for a meet and greet with some CAV members and so that I could get Blacky in for her oil change first thing in the morning at Hammersmith Auto.

Video - My sidekick Road Trip Rita
meets a ton of Nova Scotia Riders

SO, a quick stop in at the hotel to let them know I’d be back in the early after noon and we were back on the bikes.

A day to relax and a ride to Mabou and Antigonish...goodbye Cabot Trail

2011-09-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Day 31

With the weather being as crappy as promised I took advantage to down size and edit pictures, get caught up on some writing and emails. It was a quiet and peaceful day with Angela and Patrick scarcely around. I revelled in taking some time to myself to just sit on the deck and admire the birds and the tranquility. Motorcycle Retreat…no better description for this place!

A peaceful and serene place

I had some camembert and crackers I had purchased the day before for my supper…after the lobster feed of the night before I was scarcely hungry and I took my tired but happy and contented bones off to bed.

Day 32

The morning started of very over cast, foggy and gloomy but you could see the skies were attempting to clear. Angela and Patrick filmed a motorcycle awareness video with me, I finished packing up my gear and stowing it on the bike just as we heard Daniel Ross’s bike begin the ascent up the driveway. After two years of conversing by email I was to finally meet the man behind Cabot Trail Biker and the fabulous Tee Shirt!

After Daniel had a tour of Patrick and Angela’s Retreat, we bid farewell, shared hugs and off we went.

I really had a hard time leaving the Middle River’s Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat. This is one special place, run by very special people. Please check out their web site and if you are thinking a trip to ride the Cabot Trail is in your future, may I recommend that you try this place for your accommodations at least one night…book well in advance because this place has become very popular and has a lot of repeat guests!

Middle River's Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat
Phone: (902) 295 1087
Email: info@ctmcretreat.com
Web Site: http://www.ctmcretreat.com

Patrick had suggested that Daniel and I take the back highway to Mabou, the home of the Rankins and so we did, what a wonderful twisty little road, this whole place is so darned pretty.

Red Shoe in Mabou

Red Shoe Pub for tea

We stopped at the Red Shoe Pub for tea, this pub is owned by members of the Rankin Family and is filled with all sorts of memorabilia. Daniel gifted me with a Red Shoe Tee Shirt and pretty soon we were heading outside. We ran into two riders who had just come off the trail and were heading to Daniel’s store in Antigonish to pick up their Cabot Trail Tee Shirts. We had a great conversation about the shirts, the riding and the scenery and then parted ways leaving them to their lunch and us heading to Daniel’s store. My Schedule was tight on this day and due to the heavy fog that delayed our departure we were running about 2 hours behind – I was supposed to be seeing the kids from the Bike Klub in Moncton.

The Dark Sky

We pulled in to Daniel’s shop and he took me on the grand tour. I met his gal Betty, she is the admin for Ross Screenprint and I was introduced to so many other really nice and friendly employees and I kick myself that I can not remember all of their names. After the grand tour of his business and us going back outside to film his motorcycle awareness PSA and I had Ali call Marc Mazerolle to let him know I was leaving. After Daniel and I were done filming, Ali called me back to say that Marc had to cancel because it was getting too late in the day and between summer jobs and weddings, the kids couldn’t wait that late in the day. While I was sad that I would not get to see the kids this trip, I was grateful not to have to push myself and to drink in the last of the Cape Breton region before heading back in to Moncton.

Embroidery machines hard at work

With some new found time one my hands, I decided to stay and have lunch with Daniel, his wife was gracious enough to share their anniversary with me by letting Daniel show me around. We stopped in at a great little restaurant and had a bite to eat and Daniel got a call from his wife about his son’s hockey game time…so like any good bike trip, plans change, kid’s come first and off went to stop in at Alex’s hockey game where I met Daniel’s wife Shauna.

At the Hockey Rink

But not before Daniel and I could discuss some business and he has agreed to start producing the Belt Drive Betty line of clothing here in Canada. I am extremely happy about this alliance for as with Alanna from ArtaTude out of Hinton AB, where I get all of my hand out promotional materials, I am now hooked up with another biker in business to get my clothes made!

If you are looking for great Tee Shirts, hats, hoodies etc, why not give Daniel and his team a try!

Soon Daniel and I would part company

Ross Screenprint Ltd. 4053 South River Rd. Antigonish, NS B2G 2H6
(800)905-3388 Sans Frais
(902)863-4630 Phone
(902)863-6448 Fax
www.rossscreenprint.com

After a bit, we headed out on the bikes to where Daniel and I would part company and I would continue on to Moncton…

motorcycle canada

A Lobster Tour in Baddeck & the Cabot Trail

2011-09-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

Day 30

We all got up early as Angela and Patrick were riding me out to Baddeck to meet their friend Brian, better known as Beastie.

Patrick and Angela - Patrick is on the pink bike...

We boarded the small fishing vessel and headed out to feed the eagles and bring up a lobster trap.

It was so impressive to watch the eagles fly in and scoop up the fish that was thrown out to them – they are such a magnificent creature.

An eagle snatching up the fish

The scenery around the Bras d'Or Lakes and Baddeck is nothing short of spectacular.

The town of Baddeck from the boat

Angela caught the buoy for the lobster trap and Beastie hauled it in - there were a coupe of crab and a small female lobster in the trap. Patrick had tried to snag the buoy but was unsuccessful!

Beastie measures the lobsters that are caught, weighs them and then releases them – his tours are highly educational. Beastie also fishes for a living and has a license to catch lobster – we purchased some from him for our dinner later that night.

Catching the buoy for the trap

A couple of crab and a small lobster

Skipper Brian AKA Beastie

She's 9" long


Yup, she's a girl!

I took the helm of the boat for a while and surprisingly I never crashed us into any rocks or other vessels so it was all good. After docking the boat we went for breakfast and I thanked Beastie for the excursion.

One of the many lighthouses

The Bell Mansion

I was so impressed with the professionalism and information this man had to offer. His passion for what he does not only as a fisherman but as an educator is very evident and I can guarantee you that if you take a tour with him not only will you have a lot of fun and see some truly impressive sights but you will also learn a lot about lobsters and the creatures of the water.

For more information on Cape Breton Lobster Adventures visit: http://cblobstertours.com/

After breakfast at the Yellow Cello Café we headed out for the Cabot Trail – we planned to take the trail in a counter clockwise direction. With Patrick in the lead, me in the middle and Angela bringing up the rear… off we headed. I was excited like a little kid! The Cabot Trail is a bucket list item for me that I was going to get to sort of cross off my list – you can be guaranteed of one thing – Sooner than later, I WILL BE BACK to do this ride again!

It was an over cast morning, cool but not cold as we headed out. As we rolled along the curvy and winding road, we settled into a nice pace of about 80 Kph and 3-4 second intervals between riders. I am not much for group riding, but riding with these two was a treat. I was able to use my whole lane, the way I like to ride, I never had to worry where anyone was, I could see Patrick’s face in his mirror and Angela was always visible to me in mine.

I was so comfortable riding this road, could we have gone faster, sure, but I wanted to drink in every ounce of scenery and both Patrick and Angela were fine with that.

John Roberts Leather Works

Our first real stop was John Roberts shop, Leather Works. John is Glenn Roberts of Motorcycle Mojo fame’s brother! John’s talent with leather is amazing, from the leather pails of days gone by to exquisite purses and belts, this man’s talent is a visual experience!

After spending a wee bit of time in the store, we mounted up…next stop…15 minutes up the road to Wreck Cove and fuel.

Moose having breakfast

There were lots of bikes stopped on the side of the road watching 2 moose eating breakfast, we discussed the fact that this was an ideal morning for swamp donkeys to be present and that we had best stay hyper vigilant in watching for them. It became foggier as we road up the Smokey section. Going up the mountain, about 9 and a half minutes into this leg of the journey we encountered a moose crossing the highway just in front of Patrick. We tightened up the grouping as the riding got foggier so that we could keep each other in view and continued on our way towards the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Coastal Waters Restaurant to get lunch and a Cabot Trail Biker Tee Shirt.

About 23 minutes into this stretch of the ride, Patrick is passing a tent trailer that had pulled over and a guy in a silver car passes Patrick while he is passing!

We pulled over shortly after that and Patrick expresses that he would have liked to chase the guy down but discretion won the day and cooler heads prevailed. Out here on this magnificent road, with these amazing views are not only the natural and infrastructural hazards to deal with but there are tourists who stop suddenly in the middle of the road to see something or perhaps to avoid a danger and there are those who have to race through everything!

Man some people’s children anger me!

At Coastal Waters Restaurant and Pub, we stopped for lunch and decided on our next stop. Since Patrick has taken the time to ride the area since moving here from Toronto, he took me to what he felt were some of the most gorgeous sites because we all knew tomorrow’s forecast was for rain and I would only get this one opportunity to ride the trail! Next stop was to be at one of the light houses.

Coastal Waters - THE place on the trail to get your Cabot Trail Biker Tee

We had another impatient driver about 15 minutes into this leg of the trail. There were two riders ahead of us and this car decided to pass the three of us and get in between us and the other riders. The car was following so close that the driver was constantly riding his brakes. We all experienced some frustration with this driver, of that I am sure.

We pulled off of the highway and ventured into this tiny fishing community to go see the light house which is right next to the Chowder House Restaurant in Neil’s Harbour. What a gorgeous, gorgeous spot!

Neil's Harbour

We spent a few minutes taking in the beauty, taking some

photos and talking with a fellow rider and then we were off…next stop, White Point. I was wishing the weather would break and it finally looked like it would up ahead as we entered White Point. This is another achingly lovely spot.

Over the next fourty minutes of riding it went from foggy to misty to ominously over cast to bright sun shine. Finally it looked like Mother Nature would cooperate for at least a while! Bay St Lawrence was the next stop, I wished I knew more words that could better describe just how incredible the views are in this region. Spectacular, gorgeous and phenomenal hardly come close!

Bay St Lawrence

We stopped at the Mountain View Lodge for a snack and a coffee/bathroom break and then headed back out on the road. By this time the weather was amazing albeit getting windy, and the views from the different look offs became, each, more inspiring and breath taking than the next. As we headed towards Pleasant Bay, I settled far behind Patrick because, sorry buddy, when you aren’t the lead dog the view never changes and these curves and roads needed to be shown off!

Pleasant Bay

The Pleasant Bay Look Off provides a magnificent view - simply fabulous! While the road is not always in the best of condition and it forces you to really pay attention, the government here has done one thing very well…created beautiful places to pull off and take in the panoramas!

A short scoot up from the first look off for Pleasant Bay was another giving one an entirely different perspective!

The Mackenzie River Valley Look Off afforded one the most fabulous view of the valley.

The Sky Line Trail was one of the most impressive things that I had seen to this point and yet with all of the beauty we had already seen, Patrick promised me the best was yet to come!

Sky Line Trail

We headed out yet again and stopped up the road only a couple of minutes later – rounding the one curve it was as if the whole world opened up before you like an oyster bearing it’s pearl.

And another two minute putt up the road we stopped yet again. It is amazing what a half kilometre or two can do to the view and the perspective. With the wind just howling, we set off again…Our next stop, only a four minute or so ride gave us the backwards view of what we had just ridden – another perspective and equally as gorgeous to the eye!

At the last Look Off before Cheticamp we stopped again and my word, even with the wind howling the way it was you just wanted to drink in all of the magnificence you could.

The last Look Off before Cheticamp

An exquisite church in Cheticamp

By the time we arrived in Cheticamp it was getting close to dark and the wind was horrendous. We stopped for fuel and headed back to Middle River where lobsters would be waiting to be eaten. We experienced our first rain of the day on the way back to the Motorcycle Retreat. We parked the bikes and headed for the house where sure enough we had fresh cooked lobsters waiting courtesy of Beastie and while no one else dug in, Angela and I sure did. It was the most perfect ending to a most wondrous day!

canadian bikers | canadian riders

From Sydney to Middle River

2011-09-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Day 29

The morning saw me up early, I needed to see Pam the manager of the Sydney Comfort Inn where I had been hosted. After a great discussion, she invited me to her staff BBQ around 12 – 12:30

I was headed over to the rally head quarters to say good byes and catch up with a few people. After a great chat with Leah and Scott I headed to the Tim Horton’s for a coffee and got shanghaied by the Saddle Bags. What a great bunch of gals!

We had a great visit and then they rode me over to see the World’s Biggest Fiddle.


The world's Largest Fiddle

After a picture taking session where the fiddle played for us the whole time, it was time for hugs and good byes. I headed back to the hotel for the staff BBQ and to finish packing up my bike.

A veritable feast!

Comfort Inn in Sydney

We had such a feast and it was such a pleasant and welcomed experience to really get to spend some time with the men and women who work hard at this hotel to make guests like me comfortable and taken care of.

The Comfort Inn in Sydney has some wonderful people on staff.
Pam the manager and Barbara, the assistant manager work with their team closely and it shows!

This is a hotel I can highly recommend and they are a member of the Rider Friendly Business Association®!
Comfort Inn Sydney
368 Kings Road
Sydney, NS B1S 1A8
Phone: (902)562-0200
Fax: (902)564-6410
www.choicehotels.ca/cn251

After a wonderful lunch it was time to head out to Middle River and the Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat.
I turned right on the Middle River West Road and wondered what this retreat would hold in store for me.
I came across their sign and driveway beacon and headed up the short gravel driveway. What a gorgeous place!

As Angela and Patrick Lanctot came out of the house to great me I could hear the barking of their Doberman, Danika AKA the Velcro puppy! She is lovingly nicknamed that because she sticks right beside you once she adopts you!

The beacon that let's you know you have arrived

Danika by the Gazebo

Old bones make for beautiful gardens

Angela and Patrick set out to change their lives back in 2007 and founded their bed and breakfast – they actually wanted to start with a café but you know how life goes! These two die hard motorcycle nuts – said very lovingly, have created the perfect motorcyclists retreat. From the gardens that hold the old bones of long dead motorcycles to the sconces that adorn the garage – motorcycle parts and pieces can be found everywhere.


Yes, old bones make really gorgeous gardens

I was shown to my room – the Harley room and was amazed at the space it had. No detail was left to chance here – there are even boot and glove driers in the rooms!

The front door...

The Harley Room

There is a bathroom large enough to party in and the hall has a fridge well stocked with water and coca cola and a microwave with popcorn for that late night snack.

Glove and Boot Dryer

Hotel's Bathroom

Community fridge and microwave...popcorn included!

There are books and photos – a wall of international motorcycle
license plates to peruse – actually there is one in the bathroom too!

As I said – there are little touches of motorcycles everywhere from the artwork to the roller bearings and gear plates that adorn the buttons on the base of the toilet and the bath tub to bike chins finishing of the chimney and some other masterpieces like the chandelier in the dining area. Above this candle chandelier is a board outfitted with a series of motorcycle mirrors that shoot light every which way and magnify the light given off by the candles – it’s bloody brilliant!

Everywhere you look, motorcycle art

Chandelier with motorcycle mirrors for reflectors

After sitting out on the deck watching the humming birds feed out of the feeder and other birds eating out of their feeder in the middle of the yard it was bed time. The pillow top mattress and my back agreed with each other really well and before I knew it, it was morning.

rider friendly | rfba | rider friendly business assoc | rider friendly business association | riding clubs canada

Rita's Tea Room, Storming the Fortress...

2011-09-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Day 28

Harold and Wendy Nesbitt of Motorcycle Tour Guide Nova Scotia

Harold, Wendy and I rode out to Rita McNeil’s Tea Room together to go to meet the Grande Dame.

She is such a gracious and generous hearted woman and everyone in the region has such admiration for her. The tea room is filled with photos and albums, a tea cup collection and pictures of Rita’s roots and accomplishments not to mention all of her awards.


Rita meeting some of her fans

Photos and records

Awards and recognition

The gorgeous deck

We had a fabulous lunch there too. I had the quiche and a salad with coffee – Harold the Fish Cakes and Beans and Wendy had the chowder. Wendy and I fought over the bill – Wendy won but I have vowed that next time is MY treat!

It was such an honor to ride with these two fabulous people. The Motorcycle Tour Guide Nova Scotia is a fine publication and has changed the way many businesses think of motorcycle tourism and has helped countless riders enjoy this province to its fullest! We parted company back at Rally head quarters and I finally got to meet Scott and Leah Boyd who are the hosts of Bike Fest.

I got my passes and a bag of goodies – talked to a few more people and headed off to meet the Saddle Bags. I also had the greatest pleasure of encountering members of the Cape Breton Regional Police – many of you know how critical I can be of our police services – this police force was a breath of fresh air. These police officers, all 7 that I encountered seem to understand that many normal rally type issues can be dealt with; with a smile and that you will get far more with honey than vinegar. I was sooo impressed with the demeanour and conduct of these officers that I even called the Regional Police Head Quarters to tell them how impressed I was. What a POSITIVE experience!

Police Bike

The Storm the Fortress event was next!

The Cape Breton Saddlebags

We all rode to Fortress Louisbourg together with me filming the ride – sadly the file was somehow damaged so I have nothing to share of that ride but trust me – it was a lot of fun. When we got to the Fortress parking area, the gent from Parks Canada informed us all of what was going to take place, I gabbed with a bunch of the riders, and then Leah and I discussed me riding up front with the police officer and the gent who was to be asking the Fortress Commander for permission to bring in his troops. What a HOOT!

Motorcycles are the only motorized vehicle to be allowed in to the Fortress and even then it is only for this one day a year!

Getting read to Storm the Fortress

Parks Canada giving us the lowdown on what to do and expect!

Riders going into the Fortress

It was so impressive – as we rode up to the Fortress the sound of piccolos and drums met our ears even over the engines. There were photographers everywhere and we really did feel like this was a conquering!

As 350 motorcycles roared over the plank bridge and toured the town there was an excitement in the air.

From the Fortress Louisbourg web site (http://www.fortressoflouisbourg.ca) – some history on this magnificent reconstructed site:

“The Fortress of Louisbourg is the largest reconstruction project in North America.

The original settlement was founded in 1713 by the French and developed over several decades into a thriving center for fishing and trade. Fortified against the threat of British invasion during the turbulent time of empire-building, Louisbourg was besieged twice before finally being destroyed in the 1760s. The site lay untouched until well into modern times, when archaeologists began to reconstruct the fortress as it was in the 18th century.”

The costumes, the actors, the musicians…I can not express just how well done this whole thing is. The reconstruction of this Fortress and the period specific equipment like the leather water buckets all add to the feeling of being thrown back to a time when life was simpler, though harsher.

As the bikes wound their way through the streets of the Fortress in this large invasion parade, one got the sense, the feeling of being a conqueror and what that must have been like. Once all of the bikes were parked, we gathered around the Thunder Glide to find out which lucky ticket holder would win the bike. It stayed in Nova Scotia and all of the proceeds went to the Hospital Foundation.

350 bikes parked and their riders getting ready to explore

The raffle bike - The THUNDER Glide

After the draw which brought about many cheers and groans alike, we were free to wander through the Fortress. There were cannon firing demonstrations and good old Harold Nesbitt from Motorcycle Tour Guide Nova Scotia got himself arrested for stealing sheep.

Harold and a female visitor - charged with THEFT!

Another member of the crowd – a gal – was arrested for stealing wine. They were thrown in jail together and then a group of soldiers paraded them through town to the iron collar where the town crier read the proclamation that Harold should be hung! Harold by the way missed his calling – he really should have been a stand up comedian – the man has one heck of a sense of humour and a flare for drama! He had EVERYONE in stitches and playing along.

Harold pleading for mercy

We took in the shops and I bought a loaf of hard tack bread to munch on from a street vendor - building after building offered up actors in the most authentic costumes all playing their parts so well you really felt like you were living the life! The chapel was amazing – I had goose bumps running down both arms as I walked through it.

Hard tack Bread for sale

The Fortress

The AMAZING chapel

The Cannon Firing

The finale for the day was the long gun demonstration and the raising of the Cape Breton Bike Fest Flag along with the Parks Canada Centennial Flag. Scott Boyd who is a local Radio personality and the chairman of Bike Fest told the story of the RCMP officer who was integral in seeing the Storm the Fortress event come to be a reality and how he had died of cancer during this past winter. He had his son not only raise the flags but also gave them to him in memory of his dad.

After that emotional ending we were asked to mount up for a police escorted ride back into Sydney.

Many stayed to take in the Matt Minglewood concert and fire works, I however decided I needed to go to the room and edit photos and get a good nights sleep for I would be heading to Middle River and the Cabot Trail Motorcycle Retreat!

motorcycle tourism | motorcycle nova scotia

Truro to Cape Breton

2011-09-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Day 27...

After a solid nights sleep I went for breakfast only to be greeted by the cheerful smile of Diane – the Super 8 Truro’s employee of the quarter! Diane is a gem and when I told her that I needed some stuff for my bike, she made arrangements for her dad to come and grab me to take me to Canadian Tire.
I grabbed what I needed and we headed back to the hotel. I tended to Black Betty (my bike)

Diane offered me some wipe down rags and to get a bucket but with the looming rain I decided to not wash Black Betty but to wipe her down a bit from the mist that was all over her and just wash the bugs off the headlight and windshield. I took a bit of time in the hot tub, went to the room and packed and got ready to head out.

A camera shy Diane!

The hot tub and pool area

I had breakfast, and went to check out. I thanked Diane and her dad for everything they had done and was finally on my way to Sidney at about 10 AM.

The breakfast room

The Super 8 Truro not only had a really comfortable bed and great staff but the breakfast was really good too! If you find yourself in the Truro region – check this hotel out…Diane and all of the staff will treat you well, of that I am very sure!

The beds are so very comfortable

Super 8 Truro NS
Treaty Trail
Hwy 102 Ext 13A East or West
Truro, NS B6L 1W3 CA
Phone: 902-895-8884
Fax: 902-895-8801
E-Mail: gm@super8truro.com
Web Site: http://www.super8.com

Onwards to Sidney in Cape Breton – YEAH!!!!

It was over cast and threatening to rain but it was warm and the entire way to Sidney I never got what you could call any amount of rain, it was more like a mist.

As I crossed the Causeway into the Cabot Trail region I was excited like a little kid.

It is so beautiful – words can not come close to describing how pretty.

I got horribly lost trying to find the rally head quarters, I wanted to stop there first before I checked in to the hotel, but in the end run, I ended up checking into the hotel first and getting directions from the staff at the Comfort Inn on how to find the rally.

Once I knew where it was, the actual finding of it wasn’t bad – the Casino and Tim Horton’s had great signage as to how to find them. I pulled into the parking lot and who should I run into? Micheal, the Ratbiker from Germany – he was holding court as many admired his eye catching rat bike. After a great gab, I went and took in the vendors, got en event itinerary and met up with the CMC and the Saddlebags.

Support The Sure

The gals from the Saddlebags and I made plans to ride to the Storm the Fortress Event the next evening (Sunday Night).

I had the most wonderful visit with Glenn and Gwen from Motorcycle Mojo – they are in the process of setting up their cabin on the trail and had driven up with a trailer filled with furniture! Glenn’s brother, John is a leather smith and has a shop on the trail. I also caught up with Harold and Wendy Nesbitt from Tour Guide Nova Scotia and 5 area riders from Grande Prairie!

The gang from Grande Prairie AB

Riders at Cape Breton Bike Fest, visiting and sharing tales of the road

I saw Patrick from Pro Poly cushions in Yarmouth and he is going to make hubby’s 97 Road King seat as comfy as mine so that he quits trying to steal mine! (www.polyprocushioning.com)

It was wonderful.
I headed back to my hotel to get rested up for Sunday, it was shaping up to be a busy day!
When I got there the place was jam packed with bikes!

I was a tired, but happy girl to be here!

canada biker | canadian bikers | canadian riders | travel canada by motorcycle

Some time in Halifax

2011-09-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

My Share the Road, Share the Ride Conga 2011 took me into Halifax for Day 26. Black Betty (My motorcycle) needed to have some maintenance done on her. It has been a long time since her oil change back in Smithers BC!
Day 26...I made it to the Irving Big Stop on the outskirts of Halifax and was greeted by Medric and his wife Jocelyn. Medric and Jocelyn had a wedding to go to in the Digby area – Jimi Swinamer and his gal Sally were tying the knot! Jimi owns Riding in Style Leather and hosts a weekly Biker Down Society fundraising BBQ at his store. Medric was to be Jimi’s best man.

So – off to Powertrend Cycle, the plan was that we would get the oil changed on my bike and then get over to Route 1, the Victory Dealer to get a new back tire on my bike.

Like all good road trips, plans change in a heart beat!

When I had trouble with my bike in Revelstoke, I took Roger Goldammer’s advice to have a Power Commander installed on my old war pony and he shipped it to Power Trends for me. My thinking was if Power Trends didn’t have the time, I could get Dan the Man in Winnipeg to do it on my way back. Well, Roger sent the power commander and when I was talking to Sean, I asked if he had time to install it and he asked me why I thought I needed a power commander – so I told him what Roger told me about my bike running too lean and my spark plugs being so white. Sean decided to do a test on my bike and low and behold he discovered I had a cracked intake rubber on top of it all.

So we discussed the shop’s rate - $65 per hour and the cost of the parts. Medric jumped on his bike to go and get the parts from Privateers Harley-Davidson and Jocelyn, I and Deanna of the Halifax Lady Riders Club hung out.

Deanna and I at Powertrend

Deanna was supposed to be riding with me to Truro that afternoon with some other gals but had been rear ended by a cabbie the night before – yes on her bike! She was sore and stiff but grateful to be alive!

Sadly, her bike was in no shape to ride so no riding with me for her.


Medric heading to Privateers, Jocelyn would hang with me

Now, I had no idea where Privateers was, but Medric made it back in incredible time and his timing was impeccable as Sean was ready to begin the install of the rubbers. Medric and Jocelyn had to go – my bike’s repair was going to take too long for them to be able to ride me to Route 1 – the best man can not be late for the wedding!

I bid him a Jocelyn a safe ride – hugs were shared and off they went. Now, Medric had organized the sponsorship by both Power Trends Cycle and Route 1 for me – and then he went above and beyond again by going to the Harley store to grab the parts for me – if it hadn’t been for him and his effort, I would never have met these great people and gotten taken care of the way I did.

The showroom at Powertrend

The parts & service desk

Power Trends Cycle is run by Garnett and Sean – these two techs have a great reputation in the Halifax area and I got to witness first hand why.

They know their stuff and they go the extra distance for their customer and for the out of town traveller. They have some great pre owned bikes for sale, lots of parts on hand and a roomy shop that allows them to take care of many bikes. They work on everything from sport bikes to VTwins. They have a well equipped shop that allows them to build engines, sell used bikes and they have a good stock of parts on hand not to mention a great selection of riding gear and motorcycle accessories.

Sean working on Black Betty

After Sean got done with the repairs on Black Betty he took it for a test ride – when I asked for my bill for the additional repairs I was told no charge – I damned near cried – what a sponsor! I made sure they were set up with their membership in our Rider Friendly Business Association and thanked them for all of their help – this shop went far above and beyond for me and I also got to hear that same sentiment expressed by other riders who were dropping their bikes off or picking them up. If you are in the Halifax area and find yourself needing an oil change or any other repair done to your machine I highly recommend that you check these guys out!
Powertrend Cycles 5558 Bilby St.
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K1V3
PHONE / FAX: (902) 461-8122
Web Site: http://www.powertrendcycles.ca/
Email: sean.mcgowan@powertrendcycles.ca

My next stop was Route 1 – one of Power Trends customers drove me to the exit I needed to take to make sure I got there with no challenges and before long I was being greeted by Dave Martel, the sales man for Route 1 – the areas Victory Dealer! Dave is a member of www.beltdrivebetty.com and a subscriber to the Busted Knuckle Chronicles.

Before I knew it my bike was being wheeled into the shop by John Reilly – the shop’s customer relations specialist …he introduced me to Brian Jackson, the service manager so that I could ask any questions or impart any information I felt I needed to about my bike before they began. I let them know about the sensors for the Doran 360 M Tire Pressure monitoring system I have on my bike and left Black Betty in their capable hands.

While the guys put the new tire on, I took a Victory Cross Country with a tour pack added to it, for a test ride and went over to see Jimi’s shop – Riding in Style Leather and to have a coffee with Deanna, one of the Halifax area Lady Riders. Now I was supposed to be riding with Deanna and some of the other gals in the Monday Night Lady Riders Group later in the day, but the night before Deanna had been rear ended while on her bike by a taxi so there was to be no riding for her. She was mostly fine (stiff and sore) but her bike was not in such good shape. When she and I met at Powertrend Cycle earlier in the day, we made a plan to hook up at Jimi’s place.

John Reilly bringing out my demo ride

The Victory Cross Country is some sweet to ride. I was impressed with how light on the kick stand this big beast was – it took me totally off guard. The responsiveness of the throttle and the fact that it has many, many sweet standard features also had me feeling very impressed, so much so that I would like to really take one of these out again and put it through its paces!

I know a lot of people have a hard time wrapping their heads around the space age look of the Victory, but truly – once you give yourself permission to try one, I think you too will be impressed. The saddlebags on this thing are enormous and vastly improved in quality from when the brand first appeared. Victory has come a long way in both accessories and clothing since they first entered the market and they can offer the rider pretty much anything they need.

When I showed up at Riding in Style Leather, Deanna was already there…she and I spent some time buying stickers along with ogling the various offerings of the store and then went next door for a coffee. Deanna and I made a plan to meet a little later for the Riders Down BBQ and she had rearranged for a few gals to ride with me as far as Elmsdale…those gals would meet me at the Tim Horton’s on Cobequid Rd Sackville and take me via back highways…I was looking very forward to that.

Back to Route 1 I went where I was greeted by Scott Cahill the owner. Scott showed me an article on how the American Police Services in the Deep South are converting to the Victory Cross Country for their new police department motorcycles. They find the Harley just can’t take the heat of the south the way the Victory can. The Cross Country makes an impressive looking law enforcement bike.

After thanking Scott for letting me take their bike out, Dave Martel took me around the shop for a tour and showed me the various clothing and footwear, the accessories that are available for the Victory rider and their machine. It wasn’t long before a washed and cleaned up Black Betty was wheeled out front for me by John and that was when I discovered I had left my rain gear over at Powertrend Cycle. No fear, after a quick phone call, one of the parts guys was sent in the Polaris car to go grab it for me.

Dave Martel

It was another excellent example of eastern hospitality and fantastic customer service! I had a great experience at Route 1 and I am sure yours will be equally as rewarding!

Route 1 Motor Sports
Unit 101, 115 Sackville Dr.
Lower Sackville NS B4C 2R3
Phone: 902.252.3184
Parts & Service:902.252.3253

Fax: 902.252.3188

Web Site: http://www.route1ms.com

After saying my thank you’s and hugs and hand shakes all around, I headed back over to Riding in Style Leather and the Biker Down BBQ.
Riding In Style Leather & Becca's Boutique
528 Sackville Drive
Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2R8
Phone: (902) 252-3377
Web Site: http://www.ridinginstyleleather.ca

It was great being able to support this group even in a small way by buying a helmet sticker and a burger – the Bikers Down Society does great work in Nova Scotia helping out riders in the advent of a crash. Visit their web site to learn more: http://bikersdown.com/

The Biker Down Society BBQ

Inside Riding in Style

I met and spoke with many of the area riders and then soon it was time to head off and meet with the ladies. I showed up at the Tim Horton’s in Falls River pretty much on time, I grabbed an iced coffee and chatted with Brenda and a number of other riders. We made our plans and off we went to take back roads to Truro and that is when the road trip got a wee bit scary.

We headed out on this lovely, twisty back road and before I knew it we were in Elmsdale, and it was time to part ways...I headed to Truro and the Super 8 where I was going to stay for the night.

The gal that checked me in told me about breakfast, pool times etc and handed me keys to my 2nd floor room. Black Betty was parked under the canopy in front of the hotel where the front desk clerk could keep an eye out on her. I fell into bed exhausted.

riding clubs canada | canadian riding clubs | busted knuckle | busted knuckle chronicles

From Digby to Truro - the back way...

2010-09-07T02:56:00.000-07:00

I love riding the roads that other riders say are their favourite so when Sea Dog the Magic Man and his lovely wife Jocelyn agreed to take me to Truro on a sight seeing adventure I agreed whole heartedly. These two Canadian Lone Wolves took me to see some spectacular sights - the roads are not in the greatest shape so caution should be exercised (One rider found out the hard way that speeding on ill kept back roads will land you and your bike in the appropriate respective hospitals)

Just outside of Digby 20 minutes or so was this incredibly windy little road that brought us down to this great river...

Annapolis Royal

We HAD to stop in at the Leather Barn - what a great little shop!

The old Fort in Annapolis Royal

This old fort is incredibly well cared for and maintained - it is Canada's OLDEST community!

In fact - Port Royal as it used to be known was the capital of Acadia and later Nova Scotia for almost 150 years, until the founding of Halifax in 1749.

There is no way for a picture to show you just how high or how steep the banks are here but the whole fort is surrounded by these incredibly steep banks...

Last stop before parting company and heading in to Truro: “Look Off” in Blomindon

From the Look Off you can see almost all of the Annapolis Valley - breath taking and stunningly beautiful!

I want to thank Sea Dog the Magic Man and Jocelyn of the Canadian Lone Wolves for being such incredible tour guides and thank you to Sea Dog's step mom for the fabulous lunch!

Until next time...ride safe

canada biker | canadian bikers | canadian riders

The final day of the Wharf Rat Rally 2010

2010-09-06T02:13:00.000-07:00

Last day at the Wharf Rat Rally saw me ride with my brothers and sisters of the 1st & 2nd CAV units - myself being from 3rd CAV meant that all of the units were represented!

It was an honor to ride with Trapper and to meet so many really wonderful people.

I got to hang out with Melinda from Cycle Source magazine and Bean're and Kendra - today was my day to be a photographer and a reporter.

In spite of the hurricane and the fact that the ferries were not running on Saturday - Sunday turned out to have a large crowd and although down from years gone by - still a decent turn out.

The people of Digby themselves were very warm and funny and the riders who came from as far away as Florida and Texas were incredible ....here are a few pictures and a bit of video to showcase the rally...

Trapper Cane of the CAV as we get ready to go in the parade through town

1st CAV, 2nd CAV - Air Force and 3rd CAV Patches

Trapper showing the flag that bears all of the unit patches for the CAV

The CAV

Trapper and his gals

A cute sign in Pam the Tee Shirt Gal's Booth

Theresa "Sweet T" Davidson

Her hubby Bob the Tattooist died of a heart attack and

we held a minute of Thunder in his memory for her

The Digby Scallop Queen

Trapper assisting his newest conquest into his side car...the lovely 89 year old Pauline all the way from Texas gets her first motorcycle ride

Add caption

The Yarmouth Bike Gang came out for a while....

And these lovely ladies in pink were promoting Johnny Pag motorcycles

a rather interesting sign for you to draw your own conclusions from...

One of the smallest bikers at the rally!

Yes - the Wharf Rat Rally survived Earl and while attendance was down and the weather was not always ideal, the riding community still found ways to entertain itself!

Next destination...Truro

Until then...ride safe

canada biker | canadian bikers

The Wharf Rat Rally - doesn't give a Wharf Rat's Ass about Earl

2010-09-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

That was the caption on the buttons that the rally coordinators had made up to sell - they sold out really fast too!

The rally is very small compared to last year. There are a number of reasons for that. The Economy, the increased cost to rent a booth and EARL. My conservative estimate is 3,000 bikes and there are only a few vendors, maybe 40 including the custom bike builders and the "VIP" booths like mine. The vendors report that business has not been that great and they too attribute that to the economy and the fact the Earl kept so many riders away.

The organizers have been slammed with all kinds of changes to their plans - the school is now prepared as an emergency shelter for people so bikes are left out in the elements - Earl is at the time of writing still a hurricane and here in Yarmouth we have seen high winds and lots of rain.

None the less - every attempt was made to entertain the riders who did come and while the beer garden was hardly used and the music was not all that well received the Wall of Death, Beanr'e and the Sea Dawg the Magic Man were big hits as were the demo rides by both Harley and Honda, the Hub City Stunters and the FMX stunts. I have not been to see the two stunt shows yet nor have I had the chance to see the demos but I did see both demos in Moncton at Toys for Big Boys...

Here are some of the random shots I have from the rally so far...

My booth with all of the Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Information, the Stanford Inn's Offer to Riders and of course our special printed edition of the paper - some tees and hats to sell to help with gas expenses and the conga donation bucket - if people flipped me a few dollars to help with expenses I gave them a Free Subscription to the paper...it all helps!

Day One Pictures (For me day one was Thursday Sept 2nd)

Beer Garden with the harbour in the background

Privateer Harley-Davidson

One of the builders from Quebec

Day Two Pictures: Friday Sept 3rd

The Canadian Lone Wolves show me their good side...

My friend Sweet T at the memorial booth for her hubby Bob Davidson the Tattooist who was a big part of the regional riding community. Bob passed away from a heart attack

A much busier street on Friday than it had been on Thursday but still a far cry from what last year brought

The vending area of Water Street - a rather small vendors market compared to previous years

These unique bird houses didn't go over well even though they were widely admired - I think most riders will be waiting to see if they have room in their saddle bags or tour packs...

Tammy & Daphne of the Comfort Inn in Yarmouth - these gals and their staff KNOW the meaning of customer service. Because of them, when Earl was scheduled to hit the area, the ensured my bike had a safe place to stay at the Shell station - thank you JIM!!!! (Jim is also a rider and he allowed not just my bike but two other Comfort Inn Customers rides to be stored next to his in the "empty" bay of the station)

Luc Le Blanc and his Family - Luc owns Kent Kounty Customs

Strip Club Choppers!

The Town Crier from Annapolis Royal - Peter Crofton Davies & his Escort Valerie Davies

The Town Crier from Annapolis Royal -

One of the gents from the Wall of Death

Kendra - a quirky, funny and warm Floridian who rode with Beanr'e...I love the tail girl!

Beanr'e in the go cart in the wall of death - HELL YAH! Go Beanr'e

Mailman shows off those sexy legs

Beanr'e being chased by the bike..

Sea Dawg the Magician entertains the crowd..

Mailman shows off those sexy legs of his while Joe looks on...Yes the people who travel with Beanr'e are all characters!

While the rally itself is smaller and less organized than in years gone by - the riders are what make the whole thing fun and interesting. The backdrop of Digby Harbour, the hospitality of the business people and the Nova Scotian's (which is legendary) was fantastic...

Once the new team that is organizing the rally has a chance to gel I am sure things will rock yet again and of course hopefully by then the economy will have recovered and Mother Nature will be gentle and kind again....

The volunteers like Terry, Victoria, and so many more who busted their humps - thank you - you made all of the small stuff stay small by looking after we vendors,"VIPS" and customers with so much grace and dignity. You are a credit to the rally and the community.

Well - today is Saturday - Earl day and I am taking advantage of a down day to get the books caught up, the blogs done and the last newspaper before my holiday begins - finished...I will have another update after tomorrows day of wandering around!

Until then - ride safe..

motorcycle tourism | little black book

Two hours to be a tourist

2010-09-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

On September 3rd - my second day in the Digby area I finally had the opportunity to get out and about for a bit.

I had an interview with Jim - one of my tour guides from the 2nd...Jim is a DJ for the local station in Yarmouth - CJSL the Wave 95.5 and I decided that I would visit a few things in Yarmouth and get to know the city better and then I wanted to retrace the route the guys had taken me so I could take some photos...

I rode around town a bit and went to the water front....

The Yarmouth Waterfront is very attractive

Water Front

The old buildings in town - many are very well preserved and retrofitted - being used as shops and offices.

The beautiful Frost park ...

I had the pleasure of visiting the Firefighters Museum. The amount of history in this small building is stunning and the quality of the displays - impeccable...

The Military Stature on the main street

Firefighters Museum

The office equipment of the day - notice on the left top corner the fire bell

The oldest steam pumper - 1863 Amoskeag

I enjoyed the time in the museum - there is so much to see in there and they span over 100 years of fire fighter history. You Fire Fighters who ride really need to make this museum a must do - get it on your bucket list boys and girls!

For more information on the Museum visit: www.firefighters.museum.gov.ns.ca

Church Point

No visit to the Yarmouth - Digby area is complete until you have

visited Church Point

St Mary's Church is the largest Wooden Structure

It took two years to build - 1903 to 1905 and took 1500 volunteers to erect

The wooden walls are covered in canvas and white washed.

The church boasts 41 stained glass windows that were shipped from France in crates of molasses to protect them.

French Canadian artist Louis St Hilaire painted 9 religious symbols on the ceiling - one of them reportedly represents a motorcyclist

The organ boasts 999 pipes and is one of 6 models in Canada - it was built by the Casavant Brothers of Quebec

The church is a registered museum and has two rooms that hold the artifacts of previous priests and other religious artifacts of the time.

The alter was originally in the old church that had been built in 1820 - the alter was built by Father Jean-Mande - the original priest who founded the parish in 1799

The collection is stunning and in very good shape

I don't have much information on the next church - St Bernard - it was the architecture and the extreme contrast to St Mary's that caused me to want to stop in

This church is constructed with 3' thick granite walls

That was the extent of the tourism stuff I was able to do in the two hours I had to be a tourist - the Yarmouth region is SOOOO pretty and the ride along the coast line is nothing short of stunning.

Until next time - ride safe..

motorcycle tourism | motorcycle tourism canada

Digby or Bust!

2010-09-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

The Bay in St John NB

I left Moncton New Brunswick at 6 am on September 1st - destination - St John New Brunswick and the Bay Ferry to Digby.

The matress I saw on the beach - how that ended up in the water I am uncertain ...

I must tell you folks - St John is disgusting. It is official - in my books anyway - that the roads in St John NB are the Worst in all of Canada - worse than ANY place - I mean that from the bottom of my heart. And the Bay Ferry - what a money grab - disgustingly filthy bathrooms at the terminal - worn out carpets on the floor on the Ferry and the cleanliness left lots to be desired there too and the same price for a motorcycle to cross as a car or pick up. $90 one way fare - 3 hour crossing.

RIP OFF - complete and TOTAL!

Shameful - had I known that's what it was going to be I would have ridden from Moncton to Truro and into Digby - seen some fabulous country and saved myself $40 and still been in Digby before the ferry. Another one of those lessons one sometimes has to learn the hard way.

In the Quey for the ferry with a couple - she was from Quebec and he was from Switzerland and behind me is the gang from Conneticut I hooked up with and Ian from

Sylvan Lake...Beanr'e and his crew came in a bit behind us...

Beaner'e and some of the crew ...

Nova Scotia is in sight....

Ian from Sylvan Lake AB, myself, Beanr'e and his crew from Florida all enjoyed each others company and road off the ferry together to the rally head quarters. About 18 of us riders in total. Ian found a place to stay here in Digby. I talked to the organizers of the rally for a minute - they were too busy to deal with me and the shipping concerns I had (DHL lost 4 of the 13 boxes and Grey Dog was really slow in getting the paper delivered - but this morning they finally arrived) - they (the rally coordinators) were trying to get volunteers sorted etc...so I headed off to Yarmouth and my motel at the Comfort Inn.

What a treat - after a day filled with frustrations and disappointments the gals at the Comfort Inn made this road weary girl's day. A hose and rags for Black Betty and a fruit basket for this Betty - man - I felt welcomed and wanted...after 6,300 KM to get here - it was one of the best feelings in the world. Melissa and Tammy were awesome on the front counter.

They showed me on the map how to find where the local riders hang out and after Black Betty was cleaned up and respectable again (thanks to water and a shine with some Hogswipe) we headed for down town Yarmouth. There I ran in to three of the local riders who took me on the most scenic ride along the coast - my only regret was that I had no camera with me as I had already unpacked the bike - I will remedy that later! (Maybe even tonight if I am not too tired when I get back to Yarmouth) I want to thank Jim Grattan, John Ryan and Fred Emin - you guys are great tour guides!

Any how - after a fantastic coffee and sandwich - great company and a fabulous ride back to the hotel I was pleasantly surprised by a knock at the door. There was Tammy Muise from the front desk - she had printed off some tourism information for me about the Firefighters Museum and the local area churches - we had been talking about what attractions were in the area - she blew me away with her thoughtfulness.

Comfort INN

The hotel chain - the Comfort Inn - they have been fantastic and so very consistent in the amenities and customer service they provide and I am so deeply grateful to have them as one of two major sponsors for the this trip for the Foundation for Injured Riders, Rights & Education

The parking area - man I LOVE the patio doors...and the breakfast area - hot eggs, waffles, cereals, bagels...breakfast is the MOST important meal of the day and I sure have appreciated the good start to the day!

Well - folks - that's the update for now - I will have a report on the Wharf Rat Rally for you all later in the week....until then - Ride SAFE...

motorcycle nova scotia | canadian bikers

I am looking forward to traveling Nova Scotia by Motorcycle!

2010-03-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

This August I am planning a trip to Nova Scotia by motorcycle and I am am stoked.

The last time I was in Nova Scotia was for the Harley-Davidson Dealership Convention in 1989 when I had an officially licensed product for Harley-Davidson - greeting cards and puzzles. Man that was another life time ago!

This summer, myself and a few crazies are supposed to be doing the Conga across Canada to Canada's largest motorcycle rally - the Wharf Rat Rally!

It should be a blast! As we have the route and dates confirmed as to where we will be and when we will let you know. In the mean time some of my friends out there promise they will get us some information and pictures on Travelling Nova Scotia by Motorcycle!

motorcycle nova scotia | travel ns by motorcycle