Where Have All the Blossoms Gone?

It's the last weekend of May and I was looking for suggestions for this Sunday's roadtrip when Kelley threw out the suggestion of heading to the Annapolis Valley to check out the apple blossoms.  Although we would be a week early for the famed Apple Blossom Festival, we thought the weather seemed perfect to take advantage of a day off and jump on the Evangeline Trail to make our way to the picturesque town of Wolfville.

It seems the opportunity to see the apple blossoms for their stunning natural beauty and fragrant aroma has eluded Kelley for years; she regales us with stories of either being too early or too late to enjoy this annual display of natural, majestic beauty.  She has her camera at the ready as we eagerly pass over the twin bridges spanning the Gaspereau River and about to take the exit for Grand Pre.  There is an apple orchard at this exit and we had planned to make this our first stop.  It was here when Kelley first realized that taking in the experience of the apple blossoms, considered by many as the official launch of the Nova Scotia tourism season, was not meant to be.  We found out that with the exceptional spring weather that the valley has seen, the blossoms were at their peak the week previous.

Nova Scotia Tourism: Evangeline Trail

Although saddened by the missed photo opportunities, Chuck and I knew that we could boost Kelley's spirit with the promise of an enjoyable day in the Valley.  As we drove through along Main Street in Wolfville, we noticed that many people were taking advantage of such a fantastic weather; many stores had opened their doors and set up sidewalk displays and patios at the various eateries were packed.  Blossoms or not, the Valley was hopping!

Edwards, Homewood & King: The Port Pub

As we continued our way through town Chuck made the suggestion to head over to Port Williams, as he had lived briefly in that area a few years back and he knew of a great place to get a bite to eat.  As Kelley and I have come to know, Chuck is always right with his dining suggestions...and today was no exception.  Hanging the first right after we crossed the Cornwallis River, we pulled into the parking lot of the Port Pub, an amazing gastropub owned by local shareholders and one of the first gastropubs in Nova Scotia.

Smoked salmon on Bagel with Ceasar Salad: The Port Pub

With the early afternoon sun beaming down we choose to sit outside on their patio, which overlooks the town of Wolfville over the banks of the Cornwallis River.  The patio is almost completely full with people all enjoying their Sunday brunch.  Kel decides on fish & chips, Chuck opts for the "eggs benny" and I decide to take advantage of their special of smoked salmon on a bagel with a side salad.  It's hard to say which part of our meal exceeded our expectations better, the service or the food.  Nonetheless, we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience and our brunch and would highly recommend the Port Pub to anyone traveling through the Port Williams area.

An excited Kel is about to feed the goats at Hennigar's Farm Market

Satisfied with our meal we decide to make our way back towards Wolfville but decide to stop at one of our favorite Valley markets, Hennigar's Farm Market.   Their parking lot is busy with people picking up fresh produce or enjoying an ice cream on this beautifully warm day.  I am excited that the nature trail is open...but not as excited as Kelley became when she realized that Hennigar's nature trail has goats and bunnies.  The natural trail winds around a koi-filled pond leading to "Goat Town" and "Bunnyville" where visitors can enjoy seeing and feeding these animals.  Needless to say Kel's laundry change was invested quickly into the slot machine so she could feed the goats.  She may not have clean knickers for next week but she sure has made some friends!

Bay of Fundy

Of course no trip to the Annapolis Valley would be complete without the obligatory stop along the shores of the Bay of Fundy as it fills the Minas Basin with the highest tides in the world.  We make our way back through Wolfville and make the turn towards the historic Grand- Pre National Historic site on past to Evangeline Beach where we take a few moments to observe the awesome natural beauty of the area before turning our attention to the coveted prize of our Sunday's adventure.

There are many allures of the Annapolis Valley for both tourists and for people that call this area home; the rich history, the breath-taking scenery and the friendliness of the people to name just a few.  But for anyone with a sweet tooth, the gem of this part of the world can be found at the onsite cafe for the Evangeline Inn & Motel in Grand Pre.  I had heard about this little eatery from some folks where I work; apparently there was a small group of people that would head down from Halifax on an afternoon for the sole purpose of obtaining a piece their pie.  As someone who has never turned down a good piece of pie, I eventually decided to check this place out for myself.  Like a Kodiak bear that has had his first taste of blood, once I discovered their delectable assortment of pies I knew I was hooked.  Fortunately for me, I travel with people that enjoy a good piece of pie as much as I do so there was certainly no argument from my companions when the suggestion was put forth to end our adventure at the Evangeline. 

Carla serving up some fine pie at the Evangeline Inn & Motel

Although Carla was quick to get us seated and offer us menus, we had already made our decision before getting settled.  "Two pieces of butterscotch and one piece of apple with old cheddar" was our order and although Carla was quick to deliver, we sat like salivating dogs in anticipation of the treat we were about to enjoy.  Although I'm not sure how I could have possibly tasted it at the rate at which I devoured my slice, I was not let down.  Nor were Kel and Chuck, as there were three empty plates left on the table with not so much as a crumb when we decided to head back to the city.

If May is any indication on how the summer will play out, I am already looking forward to the first roadtrip of June!

Goin' Up the Country...

It's Victoria Day weekend...the unofficial kick off to the summer season in Canada.  It's the weekend that many seasonal tourist operations open, the weekend where many cottages are visited and the weekend that sees many flats of beer consumed (hence the reference to the "May 2-4 Weekend").

It is also the weekend where Halifax plays host to one of the largest charity road marathons in Canada; that is the Scotiabank Bluenose Marathon.  I did my part for the marathon by joining friends for Sunday brunch at the Bluenose Restaurant located just up from Historic Properties and the beautiful Halifax waterfront.  As usual this favorite Halifax eatery is busy for a Sunday morning but after a mere five-minute wait we are seated, and it isn't long until I have my coveted coffee and a fantastic breakfast of steak & eggs.  I may not have raised much for charity however I left with a full belly; we all have our own measures of success.

With the noonday sun beating down, the day was already well underway by the time we were packed and ready to jump in the car for this weekend's roadtrip adventure.  Working in the hospitality industry has its perks; one being that I have connections for accommodations and I am excited to finally visit Stonehame Chalets, located about an hour and a half from the thriving metropolis of Halifax.

We knew we couldn't ask for a better day weather-wise so we rolled down the windows, turned up the volume on the stereo (I feel it only fitting that we played Canned Heat's Goin' Up the Country) and excitedly left the city limits making our way northwest towards picturesque Pictou County.  With talk of beaches, oceans and ideal summertime meals, Kyle made the perfect suggestion of stopping into the Fisherman's Market as we drove along the Bedford Highway on our way out of the city to pick up a couple of pre-cooked lobsters to take along for the trip.  Having researched the amenities available at Stonehame Chalets we knew that our cottage was equipped with a barbeque; we now had the lobsters so all we needed for a surf & turf meal was some steak.  No hotdogs for us on this trip!

Kyle, enjoying the view of the falls at Victoria Park, Truro

It was clear sailing along Highway #102 so it wasn't long until we reached the town of Truro; the absence of RCMP cruisers on this holiday weekend made for a slightly quicker trip.  In keeping with the spirit of it being Victoria Day weekend, I thought it would be appropriate to make our next stop at Victoria Park; one of Truro's best attractions this park has great wooded hiking trails leading to some fantastic waterfalls.  Although we didn't spend much time here, it did give us a great opportunity to stretch our legs while enjoying a brief hike to the waterfall.

Our brief detour into Truro also provided the perfect opportunity to stop into the grocery store to pick up some steak, any other necessary provisions and the obligatory libations from the local "boozery" before heading back out on to the highway and making our way towards Fitzpatrick Mountain.

Once we leave the highway and get onto the back roads and as we make our way closer to our destination, we enjoy a great drive through rural Nova Scotia at its finest.  Even though it is still May the leaves seem to be out in full force and are already providing a canopy over the road as we wind our way up the mountainside to Stonehame; and with the windows rolled down the aroma of fresh cut grass and lilacs let us know that we have certainly left the city.

Our one-bedroom chalet, Stonehame Lodge & Chalets

Part of the overall experience of Stonehame Chalets is the drive to the property.  With breathtaking views atop of Fitzpatrick Mountain the spot is the ideal get-away; located only about fifteen minutes from the town of Pictou and the ferry to Prince Edward Island.  Accommodations range from rooms in the lodge as well as log chalets.  Our one-bedroom chalet is far from rustic; with all the amenities of home such as a fully functional kitchen, TV and modern bathroom, we know that we will feel at home and will be able to prepare our feast of surf & turf without any issue.

A meal fit for a King: Surf & Turf at Stonehame Lodge & Chalets

It doesn't take us long to get settled...and with the late afternoon sun beating down our thoughts soon turn towards the bountiful feast we are eager to enjoy.  I am immediately impressed at the state of the barbeque that is sitting on our deck; the grills are clean, the propane tank is full and the lighter actually works!  While I hear the barbeque, Kyle dices some mushrooms and onions that I will grill for the steak.  With a few cold beer to "wet the whistle" I grill a couple of medium steaks to perfection while Kyle arranges the lobsters, potato salad and fresh dinner rolls on the table.  It's not long until we are ready for our feast; accompanied by a glass of red wine we toast our perfect Victoria Day vacation and tear into those lobsters like a couple of Kodiak bears ripping into freshly caught salmon.

With full bellies and the evening sky turning to shades of orange and crimson, the Adirondack chairs seated by the fire pit made for the perfect place for relaxation and reflection of a perfect day.   As night fell I we decided that a small fire would be in order...as there is nothing like the sound of a campfire crackling away.  Although I never received my Boy Scout badge for building campfires I do consider myself quite capable of building a decent fire however my attempt on this occasion was dismal and I barely mustered a smouldering ember.  In hindsight the paper bag of lobster shells did not make for good kindling.  Having been watching my efforts from his deck the guy in the neighbouring chalet decided to help the situation by bringing over some kindling he had brought from home.  It wasn't long until the crackling sound of our campfire could be heard.  In talking with my neighbour I found out that he and his family had been coming to Stonehame Chalets for the past ten years; usually a couple of times per year.  It came to be no surprise that, in asking my neighbour what continues to bring him here, the attraction to Stonehame Chalets is peacefulness.  Needless to say an amazing night's sleep was had!

View atop Fitzpatrick Mountain looking towards Pictou Harbour

Stonehame Lodge & Chalets offers their guests many amenities to enjoy; the year-round outdoor heated hot tub, the seasonal heated outdoor pool, woodland hiking trails and numerous activities (such as badminton, croquet and horse shoes) lend this property to be an amazing option for a personal retreat.  In chatting with Jeff Gunn, Stonehame's General Manager, upon check out I am quick to note that guest satisfaction is of utmost importance and he and his team strive to exceed expectation.

In reflecting on our Victoria Day weekend adventure during the drive back to Halifax, we agreed that the weather, the drive, the food and the accommodations made for the perfect holiday; I am already looking forward to my return to Stonehame!

Sunday in the Car With Kel & Chuck

King, Edwards and Homewood hit Queensland Beach.  May 6, 2012

So here it is....the first Sunday in May and although there's a cool breeze, I throw on shorts and sandals and am ready to jump in the car and hit the open road.  After all, Sunday is the perfect day for a leisurely road trip!

After catching up with the folk on Coronation Street and downing two cups of coffee,  I pick up my travel companions and head to Halifax's Greek Village for Sunday breakfast.

Located uptown on Quinpool Road, this eatery is a favorite for Halagonians looking for good food at a reasonable price.  I have my usual; their feta cheese omelet is one of the best in the city and they lived up to expectation on this occasion.

With full bellies we decide to head out of the city along Nova Scotia's beautiful south shore.  Following the Lighthouse Route we make our way through suburban Halifax and soon out of city limits, keeping ourselves entertained along the way by catching up on the previous week's gossip.

Me, proudly displaying my newly acquired artwork at Mother Hubbards Cupboard

No road trip is complete without the obligatory sojourn at an antique store, so keeping with that sentiment we make our first stop at Mother Hubbards Cupboard in Hubbards, located next to the Trellis Cafe.  While browsing through usual fare of lamps, china and other articles that carry the aroma of a damp basement, I am awe-struck by a piece of artwork hanging in the far back corner of the shop.  After haggling with one of the proprietors (which simply meant that I inquired about the fare, explained that I was as poor as a church mouse and quickly accepted his reduction in price) I was the proud owner of a new painting for the living room.  Kel, not wanting to leave without treasures, acquired some fantastic broaches.  Chuck, on the other hand, found nothing to his liking but, in good spirit, kept my new painting company in the back of the car for the duration of the trip.

Edwards and King, dipping toes in the Atlantic

Back on the road we continue our journey along the picturesque south shore, winding along the back road with the Atlantic ocean at our side.  It isn't long until we reach Queensland Beach and our next rest stop.  Seizing the opportunity for pictures, Kel is as quick to grab her camera as she is at throwing off her shoes as we make our way to the sandy beach. I, too, threw caution to the wind and dumped the sandals on the shoreline and bravely dipped my toes in the Atlantic; the first time in 2012.  Chuck, perhaps the wisest of the three of us, decided that simply a few moments of simply being barefoot on the sand was as much beach experience as he cared to take in for this first weekend in May.  At least there were no jelly fish to contend with!

Once we knocked the sand off our feet we were back on the road again; this time not stopping until we hit beautiful Mahone Bay....and one of the most popular photo opportunities in the province.  No visitor to this quaint little town can pass through without capturing a photograph of the three churches and we were no exception; Chuck's requirement of the facilities allowed Kel and I time to grab our cameras and cell phones so we could claim our own moment in time.

We had mutually agreed that our destination for our adventure would be the town of Lunenburg; merely an hour from Halifax this town is steeped with nautical history and makes an ideal spot to visit.  We had hoped to call in on our friends that run the Ironworks Distillery however they had a previous engagement and a visit was not in the cards on this trip.  We did, however, decide to seize the opportunity to enjoy a feed of Lunenburg's acclaimed seafood and, after much debate, we settled on a meal a the Grand Banker.

Chuck & Courtney share a laugh at the Grand Banker, Lunenburg

 We had to agree that this was a great choice; Chuck and I had the one-piece fish & chips where as Kel went with the pan-fried haddock.  The food, the breath taking view of the inlet and the fantastic service we received from Courtney all made for an experience that exceed expectations.  If only they served pie for dessert!!

Having this been our first road trip of the season we did not want to over exert ourselves; with visions of a nap and relaxing Sunday evening at home in our minds we decided that we would make our way back to Halifax contented that we had an enjoyable day!