#104 Jun 2015 A Taste of Nova Scotia

June 6th we crossed into Amherst, Nova Scotia where the history and geology of the area is well documented. Europeans logged the forests and drained the wetlands, transforming them into cultivated fields. 

The dykes still stand as evidence of the determination of the early settlers to conquer nature.

Today contemporary homes and wind turbines dot the landscape.

Whenever possible we take secondary roads and find local treats. Tatamagouche Brewing Co. was one such find.

 

We both enjoy beer but had never heard of “Growlers” and arrived just in time for an education.

The bottles can be re-filled at any brewery providing such a service.

Many of the main roads are paved with a pink product. Very eye catching but we don’t know what makes it pink.

 

The ferry to Newfoundland leaves from Cape Breton Island. 

We spent one night in Baddeck in order to arrive at the ferry dock about 9:30 AM. We asked for a pull through site to get a quick start in the morning. 

The Maritimes experienced a great deal of snow last winter and spring was late arriving. The ground was soft; the RV sank in the grass and stopped. After unhitching the Suzuki Ralph carefully drove the RV back onto solid ground while I scouted out a dry site.

Early the next morning we drove to a flat parking lot to hookup before going to the ferry. For the first time in months Ralph could not get the Suzuki into neutral. After a few frustrating attempts we were on our way.

Upon arriving at the ferry lineup we discovered the Suzuki battery was dead. Ferry staff were quick to spot the raised hood and brought a battery charger.

 

When the Suzuki started the “Check Engine” light came on. What now? It was time to load onto the ferry so off we went.

 

For the six hour trip between Cape Breton and Newfoundland there are two ferries. One leaves about noon and the other about midnight. Cabins are available but we opted to watch the sights.

 The ferry leaves from North Sydney, a colorful Maritime community. 

Dwarfed by modern wind turbines, this iconic lighthouse stands guard at the harbor entrance.