Our stop for the evening was in North Bay. We had been here last year for a bike trip. Basic hotel, but very clean, a great hot breakfast and everything we needed. After sitting in the truck we were ready to head out on foot to explore.

We had tried to visit this pub when we were here last time as a local had indicated it was a great place to eat. It is a mix between British and Canadian pub fare. Great unique choices and we both enjoyed our meals.

After dinner it was a beautiful evening so a walk along the pier was a great finish to our meal. Many people were taking advantage and lots of fishing lines dropped in Lake Nippissing. We actually even saw a few good size catches.

A few splashes right up over the boards.

Unlike Lake Superior, several people were out for an evening dip in the Lake.

Picture does not do the sunset justice.

I think I saw a halo. 😇

Our picnic site.

And what can be better after a delicious picnic lunch than to top it off with a fresh coffee.

Hmmm

We continued our journey along a very winding road. At times it was like we were on a roller coaster. In the middle of what we felt was nowhere we came to a National Park lock site along the Rideau Canal.

We wandered around and explored the plaques and just as we were getting ready to leave a boat came along to come through. Of course we had to stay and see it. Everything is still operated by human power. Both the lock system as well as the swinging bridge. It truly was very interesting to witness it.

Opening the first gates.

Video opening the gates

Opening the 2nd gates

Video: GATE 2 open and now the swing bridge to be moved.

Moving the swing bridge

Ed was already getting ready to ride.

Beautiful statue in a nearly park.

The United States seems so close to us from here.

Used during the war of 1812.

Exploring the waterfront.

Thanks to a passing person who offered to take our picture near the marina.

We got a call from here that friends were in town so we headed off to meet up with them for a wonderful dinner along the waterfront.

We are a group of about 39 riders, plus 3 support staff from OBB. Each day we would have a ride brief of the expected route conditions. We have 2 local ride ambassadors who are also riding with us to share some additional local history of the area. It is always wonderful when we receive this local extra support and information.

Our first stop for a break was at the Rockford Marina. Here you can also catch several tours of the 1000 Islands. We are very glad it is still off season as there were also several tour buses here to explore the area. We had no time for a river cruise today, just a quick pee, water, and snack and we would be on our way again.

Looking out at the St Lawrence River.

Our lunch stop was at the Mallorytown Landing in Thousand Island National Park. During our lunch one of the Park Staff provided us with information and history about the park. Apparently it was form due to the generous donation of the Mallory family who donated the land (and several islands) to form this National Park as they didn’t want to see all the land developed. They wanted to preserve the land for many generations to come.

Our guide also provided us with information about local wildlife in the area. The gray rat snake is native to this area, and she showed us the skin of a “teenager” which was already about 7 feet long! We were very glad to say we didn’t run across any of these in our travels.

During lunch we wandered around the park to explore a bit and found a few interesting spots.

Gord Brown memorial pavilion. He was instrumental in naming the 1000 Island National Park. (Eventough there are actually 1864 Islands).

2 of the Red chairs from Canada’s 150th birthday which we had also discovered on our Lake Superior circle tour.

Coming in to Brockville along the Main Street we happened upon friends enjoying some cold brew at the 1000 Island Brewing Company. Of course they twisted our arm to stop and join them. As we were chatting with them they said “Did you see the tunnel?” Which we had not, so we did a little back track and we are so glad we did.

The entrance to the tunnel. Canada’s first railway tunnel that runs 1730 feet under the roads of Brockville. Designed to give the Brockville/Ottawa railway access to the waterfront. They have it only open certain hours of the day and lit with LED lights to create an amazing effect.

So glad we didn’t miss this one!

A great day! From Gananoque to outside Brockville was along a paved pathway. The last 15 km of the day took us into town along the highway and Main Street.

For supper we joined several other riders at the 1000 Island Brewery again. Our hotel was the Super 8 located about 2 km east of Brockville. We opted to walk back into town for supper and then took a quick taxi ride back.

Today’s riding brief before leaving the Super 8 to continue our journey east along the St Lawrence River. Today much of the journey will be along roadways.

Many historic markers and landmarks in this part of the country. This one was a small blue church along the way.

Our morning rest stop was in the town of Prescott.

The rest stop was at Katarina’s coffee shop. What happens when 40 cyclists come to town before 10 am. Let’s just say, there was lots of delicious coffee poured and appreciated.

Appreciated and enjoyed! This restaurant was also supplying the lunches so we would have something to look forward to.

So many beautiful vantage points of the River along the way today.

We took a quick detour to check out Fort Wellington. This is a historic spot with a great deal of information from the war of 1812.

Standing at the fort entrance. Those spikes were intimidating!

Of course Ed took the time to chat with and become friends with the guards.

Just a beautiful spot along the route!

This was the site of the Battle of the \240Windmill. The plaque helps to explain the significance of both.

Our lunch stop today was nestled between the St Lawrence and a canal at a Park and Legion in Cardinal. From here we started to see a freighter making its way along the St Lawrence.

One of our ride ambassadors (Perry) took this opportunity to provide us with more history on this area. Apparently many areas which were once nestled along the shores are now underwater. Some prestigious homes were moved and relocated to become historic sites.

Love this shirt being modelled by Beth one of the frequent Ontario by Bike riders.

As we got to the Iroquois Locks we were blessed to have caught up with our freighter from Lunch! We were able to see the Atlantic Spirit making its way through this modern Lock system. There was no manual cranking of these lock doors.

The group converged at this site.

We spent several moments enjoying the show!

Sometimes rest stops are just on the side of the road… (but normally they are in beautiful park scenery.

We checked in at our rooms for the night at the McIntosh Country Inn and Comference Center. The patio was open and inviting. One of the things that we truly enjoy about these rides is the social aspect of them. A great group of friends and fellow cyclists.

There really isn’t a whole lot of choice in Morrisburg for meals so our pick was the hotel Tavern. It was a great choice with the same group from earlier and the laughs just kept on rolling.

I think we will all sleep well tonight. 😴

First scenic stop at the site of the Battle of Chryslers Farm 1813 in a battle against the United States.

Chrysler monument.

You can see the cyclists coming down the hill in the background after our scenic tour.

A quick pee stop at Upper Canada Village. Unfortunately nothing was open yet this morning for us to explore.

After leaving the village our journey would continue along the trail system without the distractions of traffic. So many beautiful lakes, bridges, and a roller coaster of up and down trails.

A scenic stop.

Photo op.

Our lunch stop was along the Long Sault Parkway at one of the many parks along the way.

Our entire journey has taken us along the Waterfront trail.

After lunch this final stretch had a canal on our right and the St Lawrence on our right.

My attempt at a selfie when riding.

We reached the Cornwall Aquatic Center which was our destination for the day and had some time to spare before our bus would arrive. In true cycling fashion, we were able to find a local brewery to find a cold pint while we waited.

We had carried a change of clothes so we were able to make a quick switch before getting ready to board the bus.

It was quite the production loading the truck. All luggage had to be taken off the truck. Then each bike was loaded one by one, covered and secured.

Once everything was loaded back on the truck and the bus, we started our journey back to Gananoque where we had left our truck.

Once our bikes were safely tucked back into the truck and our luggage was rearranged it was time to head out towards our next adventure of the trip.

We got a quick tour of the boat and instructions on how to use the head (toilet). And then enjoyed a wonderful supper.

A shot of the Marina as the sun was starting to set.

Jammies on and ready to climb into the V birth at the bow of the ship where we would nestle in for a great night sleep.

Calm Tranquil St Lawrence before the storm.

Our morning tunnel walk.

Brockville is a wonderful historic town. With a small population of 22000 it very much has a small town feel to it.

As we walked back through the parks along the shore the predicted 56 km/hr wind gusts had arrived. It would not be a day for sailing so it would be off to explore the area.

Our first stop was at Jones Falls. This was another site of the locks system along the Rideau Canal.

The skies decided to open up while we were here so it was a bit of a wet stroll to the site.

No boats here, but a beautiful waterfall.

There was quite a large drop at this canal stop. It would certainly be interesting someday to traverse the entire system by boat.

We did some small town shopping in the wonderful historic town of Westport at the Village Green shop. We were able to find this quaint dry gazebo on the water to have a picnic lunch.

Westport Post Office.

Our next stop was at the Stagecoach Inn in Newboro. It was a fitting day for a hot cup of tea

As we were heading back to Brockville we did a spontaneous stop at the Old Stone Mill… the door was open and ready to be explored.

Alexander was our guide and did a fantastic job with his enthusiasm and knowledge explaining the processing, history and evolution of the grain to flour process.

It was a very enjoyable tour and definitely a little gem of the day.

We would end the day in the galley of the boat with a bit of friendly competition and let it be known that Kim and Lisa were the winners take all champions.

Bicycling between the boat and the yacht club.

We headed off to shop and explore in the historic town of Merrickville. Unfortunately the Blockhouse Museum was not yet open for the season, but there were lots of unique shops and other sites to explore.

Trying out our skills in operating the Lock.

Main Street selfie. Ed sporting his new Crocodile Dundee hat… stay tuned for what adventures it might bring.

Our lunch stop today along the canal. Rain had been off and on today, but we had been able to dodge it between shops. The sun actually came out for a bit while we enjoyed our lunch.

We took the time to explore the ruins of a once very active, foundry, grist mill and saw mill all using the power of the water to operate their machines.

We found more 150th Red Chairs in this historic park.

Lots of beautiful sites to explore in this small town.

Video

. Video- the winner coming in

You can certainly tell it is off season here as many of the shops and stores are still closed. This was one of my kids favourite shops on a camping trip here years ago.

We found the local brewery still open. I guess beer lovers enjoy their brew all year long!! It was delicious and they had basic pub fare for dinner.

After dinner, we did some exploration to see where we needed to go tomorrow. There are basically only 2 roads in downtown Tobermory so not hard to navigate.

We did also take a quick tour as the sun was setting to find the local historic lighthouse.

Excellent coffee and we even found some Pasta de Nada just like in Portugal!

It was a breeze checking in. With everything now done on-line it is very quick to get in line so we had more time to explore before boarding the ferry. It was a beautiful day, calm waters, blue sky… you couldn’t ask for much more.

Boarding time.

It’s amazing how tight they fit them in.

Ready to set sail.

Admiring the rock formations under the water.

Our lighthouse from last night.

Enjoying a light breakfast and coffee in the cafeteria while also enjoying the view. Love this way of travel when you can sit back, relax and let someone else drive you to the destination.

Our room #2. Apparently they were completely booked by cyclists from last year, and then one room cancelled which luckily for us was right when we were looking to book.

Common area where tea and coffee are available 24/7

Our first stop was a short hike to Bridal Veil falls.

Stopping to small the flowers along the trail.

The path was an easily walked trail that meandered along the river.

And finally at our destination Bridal Veil Falls.

Video- very cool wait for it.

We then headed off to Gore Bay. Here we found a lookout on the east side of this bay that looked back at the town. One of the larger towns on the island and definitely a marine town with lots of sail boats and fishing vessels.

If you look real hard you can see the main land from here.

After all our exploration today we had worked up a thirst and stopped at the local brewery.

The brewery is Manitoulin’s first craft brewery. Founded in 2012. Its name is in honour of the cedar fencing that zigzags its way across the island.

Across the road was a small restaurant Buoys Eatery Patio and Take out only. It was a bit chilly with the sun going down, but we had a former guest at our Guesthouse who used to work here. Unfortunately they were no longer there, but we had a very good meal so all was very good.

One last side trip past Gore Bay to the lighthouse Janet Head. It is now privately owned, but in the summer months they still open it up to the public.

And then back to our B&B just in time for a spectacular sunset.

View from our window!

Fueled up and ready to go we headed off to one of the Island Landmarks at the Cup & Saucer trail. This trail takes you to the top of the Niagara Escarpment for spectacular views.

We chose to do the 5 km red loop.

Amazing how a tree can grow holding onto the rocks!

Grateful for stairs although they were a bit shaky.

It is interesting to see the layers upon layers of rock.

Wow what a view of the North Channel and Lake Manitou.

And another view… that was close enough for me.

70 meter Sheer cliffs underneath.

Clear skies and a beautiful day added to the scenery. Bugs were also not too bad along the trail.

Okay that’s far enough please.

One last look before heading down.

We were glad it was dry and not too slippery.

Varied terrain along the trail. We are still not sure why it is named Cup and Saucer but we can definitely see why it is one of the most popular hiking trails in Northern Ontario.

After finishing up at the Cup & Saucer trail we picked up a picnic lunch at the local Foodland and headed west on the Island to the only Provincial Park on the Island at Misery Bay.

We are not sure how anyone could be miserable here. The story of the name of this bay goes something like this: Bavk in the dawn of time (or in the 1880s), two men in a boat in the bay called out to settlers cutting marsh grass on a hot sun on the shore, “What bay is this?” An overheated wag in the work party shouted back, “Misery!” And the name stuck.

An Alvar is a biological environment based on a limestone plain with thin or no soil and as a result sparse grassland vegetation.

Unique Flaura was seen along the trail.

Mossy ground cover along with pops of colours.

We found a picnic bench right where we needed it on the shoreline. This beach are is indeed different; arriving on the shore of Misery Bay is a bit like stumbling into a movie set in a primeval times. Very flat, limestone alvars, carved by glacier action years ago.

Apparently this was also a great place for a quick nap. 😴

A great visual of the shoreline.

We saw (and heard) hundreds of geese while walking along the shore.

Another great view of the Alvars.

After our hike as it was such a spectacular day we headed off to Providence Bay. A beautiful beach area was waiting for us. Still a bit chilly, but there were a few brave souls out sunbathing.

We hike along the boardwalk with borders the sand dunes and it turned out to take us the full 2 km along the shore.

This mural was found on a building in Providence Bay. The amazing thing in this design was that the wall had ridges that had to be incorporated into the design.

This is a sign found in the dining area of our B&B… I guess we followed this advice today.

Just loved this and it seemed to be very relevant to our journey.

Fueled up once again an OMG these breakfasts were amazing. Our hosts Leslie and Michael used to run a restaurant chain of 5 locations in Toronto. They chose the quieter lifestyle just before Covid and and loving it and we can see their passion for this place and their guests.

Our first stop was at the Mindemoya Community Center to register. We were told that there was around 300 riders and apparently they all arrived around the same time.

Our route for the day!

Finally through with registration and ready to head out.

Our first quick stop was this tribute to war veterans from the Island.

So many beautiful Lakes! Which seems odd when we are on an Island in a bigger lake!

Lake Mindemoya

Most roads were very quiet.

Passing through some farmland.

Our first rest stop was at this Indigenous Catholic Church.

Lots of riders stopping to take a break, check out the church and of course have a pee.

The inside of this church.

Ed getting directions (I think) from one of the volunteers.

Lunch stop was at Kagawong. We had been here the other day when we hiked to Bridal Veil Falls. Some of the riders did take the time to do the 45 minute walk to the falls.

Checking out the Museum at Kagawong.

After 2 big climbs out of Kagawong this ice cream was a welcome stop!

On many of the busier roads we had a wide shoulder area to ensure we had a safe route.

At the end of the day the group organizing these event provided a dinner and music. To our surprise there was a group of people from Sault Ste Marie who were also riding. It was great to catch up over a great meal. I think we will all sleep very well tonight.

Todays stats:

Distance 73.59 km

Total Time: 4:51:58

Total Ascent 480 m

Paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, stain glass. All original works of art by Canadian artists.

One of the artists who had several pieces here was Lee Munn. I recognize the name as my mom had spoken about him and she had one of his early works. There is a family connection I am still trying to piece together. But I felt like I was suppose to come here to rediscover his work.

Well the sun finally came out and as we were almost in Gore Bay we headed there to say farewell to the island. We ran into sisters Barb and Lexy Prokop who had stayed at our B&B the last few nights and were originally born and raised in the Sault,

It seemed to be letting up when we headed out on our journey for the day. One again our first stop was at the Mindemoya Community Center to pick up lunch tickets for today.

Today our journey would take us to the southern shore of the island and an expected distance of 53 km.

Well the rain did not let up, but it could have been much worse. It was quite warm, a mild persistent drizzle, and thankfully no rain! For those that know the saying this was a bad cup of coffee day that helps us appreciate all the good days we have.

A welcome site as we came to the southern most point of our journey in Providence Bay, an open Coffee shop…,hmmm this warm cup of Java sure hit the spot.

Not too many pictures today, but had to make a stop for this photo op.

Our end of ride lunch stop was at Maja’s Garden Bistro. It is not open yet for the tourist season, but was open exclusively for the riders today.

Many riders didn’t head out today so it felt good to say we made it. Pizza tasted very good.

The gardens here were quite unique. We didn’t stay around too long as once we stopped the dampness caught up and we started to get chilled.

Today’s Stats:

Distance: 58.6 km

Total time: 3:54

Total Ascent: 285 M