Monday June 07 2004

I spend the day doing my laundry, checking emails, browsing the downtown and waterfront of Halifax, the rain is back so I don't venture so far away from the hostel.

I walk to see the impressive fort, the Citadel.

I then drive out to find the local Harley Dealer where I get an oil & filter change.
I spot a good deal on a set of heated hand grips and pick them up for $200.00, they usually sell for around $400.00 but they cannot install them today.
I hope to get them installed along the way or when I get back home.
I really could have used them on this first leg in eastern Canada.

A nice 2 days in Halifax, on to Peggy's Cove in the morning.

Tuesday June 08 2004

The bike is running well and I am excited to get going again.

The plan is to head west along the coast and around to the Bay of Fundy side of Nova Scotia and work my way towards Cape Breton Island.

First stop is Peggy's Cove, I arrive early in the morning and have it all to myself. What a beautiful, small fishing village, sort of surprised of just how small it really is, but amazingly picturesque and a good photo op.

On to Lunenburg, home of the famous sailing schooner the Bluenose.

You could spend some quality time here in this historic seaside town exploring the unique buidings and maritime architecture and shipbuilding days of long ago, another must see in N.S.

I drive along the main highway #103 and veer off to the towns & sites on the ocean, towns of Liverpool, where I make my luch and enjoy the sun by the river and get info from the local tourist info.

I make my way to Lockeport and then stop to camp in the town of Shelburne.

A nice town with old buildings and archtecture that is well looked after.

A very good provincial park, still not many campers yet, I was an easy target for the mosquitoes to feast on as again I had almost the whole place to myself.

Wednesday June 09 2004

Today I drive along the coast through the towns and fishing villages, I am so impressed with their beauty, the bushland and vast wilderness along the highway.

I have decided to explore the drive along the Digby Spit, take the 2 ferries to get to the last island called Brier Island, in the fishing town of Westport.

There I take a dorm room bed at Brier Island Backpackers and it is turns out to be a highlight of Nova Scotia.

Thursday June 10 2004

My guidebook has said that this backpackers hostel could be one of the best in Canada, well, let me also say that I think it is.

The view overlooking the harbour and bay, the islands and lighthouse is spectacular and breathtaking.

The owners, Wally & Joyce Devries are so nice & helpful, they make your stay a memorable one, the local people all wave, say hello and want to talk and ask where you come from.

It is easy to walk around the small village and enjoy the quiet and peacefullness of this quaint fishing village.

Another highlight is the whalewatching when in season.

I stop at the local fisherman and buy a pound of scallops for $7.00 and fry them up in butter, what a delicious and filling meal!

This has to be one of the most beautiful, relaxing seaside towns in all of Nova Scotia...and Canada too!

I am glad I took the time to find out about this little island at the end of the Digby Spit, one of my Eastern Canada highlights for sure!

Friday June 11 2004

I am up early to catch the ferry and to say goodbye to Wally and thank him for his hospitality, it is a special little place that I will never forget and think of fondly, just read the hostel guest book comments and you will see what I mean.

A long day on the road as I drive the length of Nova Scotia from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm and arrive in Mabou, Cape Breton Island.

Don't tell anyone but I got a speeding ticket today, it wasn't my fault though!
Famous last words!

It is a long, cold ride.
I arrive in Mabou (home of the Rankin Family) to find out that the hostel I wanted to stay at has changed to B&B/hotel type accomadation so that means much more money.

I go to Ceilidh Cottages & Campground where I am treated very well and highly recommend to stay here when in Mabou.
It is settled in the most beautiful area, the views here are amazing!

Welcome to Cape Breton Island & the Cabot Trail