Advertisement
Published: August 22nd 2015
Today on the way to Prince Edward Island, we pulled onto a side road to find a bathroom and ended up in Potato World, in a town called Florenceville-Bristol. Being half Irish, Tim has had a love affair with potatoes his whole life, so he was ecstatic. How woeful therefore, that it was not yet open for the day. It turns out that this is also the French Fry Capital of Canada. I thought that Tim was going to cry with joy at finally finding heaven.
We decided to stop in Fredericton, which was a change in plans, but we had the time. What a charming city! Like most eastern cities, it has beautiful historic buildings and a rich history. After having coffee in a cute little café, we went down to the waterfront and happened upon the changing of the guard. With a flash of scarlet and a skirl of pipes, history came to life. Period-dressed guards re-enacted a drill ceremony to the beat of a piper and drummer. It was full of pomp and circumstance and beautiful to watch.
Next we visited the Fredericton Region Museum which possesses a large and diverse collection of artifacts and displays
on the Acadians, Loyalists, Aboriginals, and a First World War trench. Most famous of all is the legendary Coleman Frog, reportedly the world’s largest bullfrog and a beloved figure from Fredericton’s history.
In the Historic Garrison District we visited the restored Soldiers Barrack where more than 200 British soldiers were stationed during the early 1800's.
Tim and I took a stroll on the Fredericton Railway Bridge, a former railway bridge now used to carry pedestrians and cyclists. It stretches over the St. John River and the views from there are exquisite. It is obviously a favourite among locals as it was busy with walkers, runners and cyclists.
We hated to say goodbye to Fredericton but Prince Edward Island was awaiting. Three hours later we approached Confederation Bridge. I was so excited! I couldn't wait to run my hands through its rusty soil, smell the salty sea and climb its grassy sand dunes. As we drove off of the bridge, a lighthouse came into view. Oh joy!
The gentle curves of the highway led us to Canoe Cove on the south shore of PEI. When we got to the end of the long, shady, tree-lined lane of
Coastal View Road, a large weathered two-storey shake house came into view. The flower beds in the front were filled with cheerful flowers. We were surrounded by leafy woods and a quiet calm. Suddenly Karyn, our Couchsurfing host burst through the front door. "Hello, hello, welcome!". We were each engulfed in a big hearty hug. "Come in, come in." Her house was big and welcoming and we were led to our bedroom, spacious and clean and bright. After unpacking, we met her son Rory and his wife, visiting from Calgary, who gave us great advice on things to do while we were here.
On his advice, we headed into Charlottetown, about 25 minutes away, to eat at The Gahan House, one of the city's favourite pubs. It is housed in a brick building built in 1880 and is lively and fun. After After amazing chowder and jambalaya, we carried on, walking through the streets of downtown Charlottetown, animated with the boisterous chatter coming from the outside patios of restaurants and pubs. A live band played on the street which was bustling with people. We walked down to the harbour in the twilight, taking in the sky's muted colours and
the silhouettes of the boats moored in the harbour.
Upon our return to the house, We talked the night away with our new friends. 12:30 pm arrived and we sunk into bed, once again tired and happy.
Tomorrow we begin to explore PEI.
Advertisement
Tot: 0.06s; Tpl: 0.012s; cc: 13; qc: 27; dbt: 0.0315s; 1; m:domysql w:travelblog (10.17.0.13); sld: 1;
; mem: 1mb
wilson king
non-member comment
Richard's Fish and Chips
Just returned from PEI. If you are travelling to the Brackley Beach area (about 30 minutes from Charlottetown), you must visit Richards fish and chips at Covehead. The best! If you are into hiking, some great trails on Robinson Island (again near Brackley beach). Many have beach access. Lots of fun if the weather is good. Rdad my blogs for other PEI sights! Enjoy the island.