Iconic Red Roads

Photo from Sean Landsman

Twists and turns on iconic red dirt roads share an unspoken promise of a breath taking scenes around each corner, the lure of which provides incentive to spur travellers on. 

Panoramic views of the countryside provide that ahh feeling that resets your soul. 

Expect to see glimpses of days gone by as you pass abandoned farmsteads. It’s easy to imagine what life would have been like when these buildings were in their prime.

The twisting red roads are boarded with trees proudly standing in salute. Varieties of Red Maple, Beech, Sugar Maple and Red Oak make for a complementary combination all year round.  

In Spring Lupins, Queen Anne’s Lace, daisies, and a host of other wild flowers are reflective of an oil painting that has been brought to life. 

Throughout all of this exploring, you will not be alone in your journey. You can expect to lock eyes in a curious stare with one (or more) of the islands infamous foxes that roam freely throughout the woods. 

Rustic Roads to add to your route are: 

Walls Road

Location: West of Scales Pond Park in the Freetown area, Wall's Road is passable from Rte 111 to the bridge.

Hackeney Road

Road (Rte 142) for 2.2 km to meet Rte. 136 near Mill River Resort.

Millman Road

Location: North of Kensington, the Millman Road runs south from Rte. 101 in Irishtown for 2 km to meet with Rte. 231 in Burlington. Travelling from north to south provides a good vantage point.

Princetown - Warburton Road

Location: Sections of the Princetown and Warburton Roads form a "Y" shape covering 7.8 km. From Rte. 239 near Millvale the Warburton Road travels south to Fredericton Station. The adjoining section of the Princetown Road runs west from the Warburton Road toward South Granville.

Perry Road

Location: Near St. Patrick's in central Queens, the Perry Road runs south from Rte. 239.

Junction Road

Location:This road is part of Rte. 227 near Hartsville. Entering from Rte .225.

Jack’s Road

Location: Near the south shore and Wood Islands this road runs from Rte. 1 in Flat River to Rte. 207 for a distance of 4.1 m.

Klondyke Road

Location: For 4.9 km the Klondyke road travels roughly in an east west direction from the Selkirk Road (Rte. 23) south of Iona, to the Murray Harbour Road (Rte. 24).

Country Line Road

Location: The designated portion of this road (Rte. 325) begins at Caledonia at the intersection of Rte. 315 and runs north for 2.6 km until it intersects with Rte. 317.

Mellish Pond Road

Location:Just east of New Perth, this road runs south from Rte. 3 for 3 km to meet the MacDonald Road. 

New Harmony Road

Location: Northeast of Souris (Rte. 303) that runs from the Greenvale Road to the Tarantum Road (Rte. 304).

Resource: Tourism PEI

Falling for Fall

Fall is one of our favourite seasons – you can’t beat the glow of red, orange, and yellow leaves during an afternoon in the country. It’s the time when you are transported back to your childhood when you hear the sound of crunchy leaves underfoot and everything seems comfy. 

With so much to love about fall, we explore a few of this seasons highlights.

Seasonal produce

So many delicious things are in season during the fall—apples and pumpkins, pears and squash, leeks and parsnips, brussel sprouts and kale.  Here’s one of our seasonal treats that’s perfect for a weekend brunch. 

Pumpkin Pancakes

Ingredients 

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 
1 tablespoon white sugar

• 
2 teaspoons baking powder

• 
1 teaspoon baking soda

• 
1/2 teaspoon salt

• 
1 cup pumpkin puree (not to be mistaken by pumpkin pie filling)

• 
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1 egg

• 
1 1/2 cups milk

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 
2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

• 
1 teaspoon vegetable oil

Step 1 - Combine flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl, and whisk together for two minutes to aerate. 

Step 2 - In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, egg, milk, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix in the flour mixture, and stir just until moistened. (Do not over mix.) 

Step 3 - Coat skillet with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil over medium heat. Pour batter into skillet 1/4 cup at a time, and cook the pancakes until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. 

Being outdoorsy

Corn mazes, wagon rides, pumpkin picking! There’s no better way to take advantage of fall’s weather than to spend as much time as possible outside. Plus, many fall activities are a great opportunity to get out and explore. 

Trails such as Confederation, Farmlands, Greenwich Dunes, Trout River and Woodland all bring something unique and rejuvenating to you as you wander through nature. 

PEI is known for its golf courses with some 26 greens to choose from. With the foliage resembling the warm tones of a Crayola deck it’s time to get your clubs out for a final swing. 

Soak in the colour 

Set your cruise control to a slow pace and your navigation to the road less travelled. Driving around PEI during fall is like turning the colour dial up on a remote control.  The red dirt roads and tree lines are so vibrant that you can’t help but feel grateful to experience such a sight. 

To find out more about some of PEI’s iconic red roads click here.  

Beacons of Light

Prince Edward Island, or PEI, is known for its statuesque lighthouses.  The Island is home to 63 lighthouses. With an average of one lighthouse every 34 square miles, the Island has the highest concentration in North America.

Cape Bear Lighthouse

Cape Bear lighthouse, built in 1881, and is a typical example of second-generation lighthouse design located on the southeastern tip of PEI. 

Interestingly a gentleman by the name of Thomas Bartlett heard the first distress signal from the Titanic as it sank off Newfoundland in 1912.

Cape Tryon Lighthouse

Perched near the edge of a breathtaking red sandstone cliff proudly stands the Cape Tryon Lighthouse. Built in 1906 this glorious tower guides mariners along the northern coast of PEI between Richmond Bay and New London, warning of the shallow water that extends out a considerable distance from shore.

Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables and numerous other works set on PEI, was living in Cavendish, on the eastern shore of New London Harbour, when Cape Tryon Lighthouse was established.

Montgomery's Anne’s House of Dreams, published in 1909, is set around Four Winds Harbour, in actuality New London Harbour, and features the Four Winds Lighthouse kept by Captain Jim. The following description of the setting of the lighthouse, given in Chapter 9 of the book, leaves little doubt that it was based on Cape Tryon Lighthouse: “The Four Winds light was built on a spur of red sandstone cliff jutting out into the Gulf.”

In May 2016, L.M. Montgomery Land Trust, whose purpose is to preserve the seashore familiar to L.M. Montgomery, became the new owners of the lighthouse.

Cape Tryon Lighthouse

Covehead Lighthouse

Covehead Lighthouse is located among the sand dunes in the PEI National Park. First built in 1967 and later rebuilt in 1975, today it is one of the islands most photographed lighthouses. And it really is no wonder, with its impressive views of the North Shore and square taper tower, symbolic of the Island’s maritime heritage.

Onsite you’ll find a plaque describing the Yankee Gale storm that claimed at least 74 ships and over 150 lives in 1851. 

East Point Lighthouse

East Point Lighthouse is commonly known as Canada’s Confederation Lighthouse having been the only Lighthouse in Canada that was built in 1867 and last year celebrated its 150th birthday. Today this site is still in full operation with onsite tours, a craft shop and café. 

Indian Head Lighthouse

North Cape Lighthouse

Indian Head Lighthouse is 12.9m and is fully octagonal from its concrete base all the way up to its lantern. It was built in 1881 at the end of a long rocky breakwater that was once level enough to be traversed in horse and buggy, but the water has had its way with the rocks and its now too uneven to be safely crossed on foot. Very cautious visitors may access it by rowboat.

North Cape Lighthouse

The need for a North Cape lighthouse was obvious to mariners from as far back as 1534 when Jacques Cartier wrote of the dangerous rocky shoal, the longest shoal in North America. It was built in 1865 and is one of three similar octagonal, wood-framed towers including Seacow Head and Cape Jourimaine lighthouses that are some of the oldest of this style still standing in the Maritimes.

North Rustico Harbour Lighthouse

North Rustico Harbour Lighthouse is a 12.4m wooden structure that stands proudly alongside quaint fishing shacks and the boats that it protects. It is a beloved fixture in this busy fishing community and a reminder to many of the important part this lighthouse has played in guiding vessels through the rough seas.

Panmure Island Lighthouse

Panmure Island Lighthouse is worthy of a postcard all on its own. But it’s made all the more stunning by the gorgeous white sand beach it overlooks and the distant pastures where horses graze. It’s not only the oldest wooden lighthouse on the Island, it has an important legacy guiding vessels through Georgetown and Montague Harbours since 1853.

Point Prim Lighthouse

Point Prim Lighthouse has guided vessels through the southeastern entrance to Hillsborough Bay at the outer approach to Charlottetown Harbour since 1845. Standing 18.2m tall, Point Prim is the oldest lighthouse on the Island and one of only a handful in the country that are made of brick. The harsh weather took a toll on the brick and it had to be shingled just two years after construction.

West Point Lighthouse

Constructed in 1875, West Point, is the Island’s tallest lighthouse. With no shortage of things to do at this location you can easily spend the day here. Explore the pristine beaches, read up on the history at the onsite museum and take home a keepsake from the craft store.

West Point Lighthouse is approximately a 45 minute scenic drive from The Cottage and The Farmhouse.

Mrs. Lighthouse (Carol Livingstone) is a local hero who is closely tied to the Westpoint Lighthouse. Thanks to her dedication, there is a Inn and Restaurant joined to the lighthouse which has ensured the sites survival. To see a short video on her story click here. 

'We are working today to save yesterday for tomorrow'  

Carol Livingstone (Mrs Lighthouse) 

Wood Islands Lighthouse

Formerly known as Port Woods, Wood Islands lighthouse stands 15.2 m at the entrance to the ferry docks and has been an important navigational aid since 1876.  In 2009, the Wood Islands Lighthouse was uprooted and moved 70 metres (230 feet) inland to ensure its survival. These days the active lighthouse is open for daily tours, along with a craft shop and the Fishery and Coast Guard Museum.

Veggie Patches for Beginners

Creating an Edible Garden

As the landscape gets greener by the day, hints of the warmer months are beginning to sprout. 

With the time for planting up vegetable gardens just around the corner, we have put together a basic guide on how to create your own patch of produce. 

Pick your position

Choose a spot that has plenty of direct sunlight. Ideally 6 - 8 hours per day is perfect.   Watering is also a consideration; so keep in mind that you will want a place that your hose can easily reach. 

Select your plants

Start with a list of your favourite vegetables to see if they are suitable.  When selecting your plants, it’s also worth considering the amount each plant can produce.

Some good plants for beginners are Mint (though it can take over), Swiss Chard, Zucchini, Lettuce, Tomato, Radishes, Squash, Cucumber, Onion and Parsley. 

Plan your plot

Draw a rough design while consulting seed packets for spacing, spread and height information. It’s best to place the taller plants along the back so they don't shade shorties.

Whether you are starting from seed or fast tracking your garden with seedlings, all the information you will need in terms of growing conditions should be included on the packaging. 

When drawing out your garden keep some paths clear so that you can tend to your garden without treading on your plants.  You may also want to create an edge for your garden; this could be created with annual flowers that can double up for use in your home too. 

Prepare the soil

Working with soggy soil compacts it, making it harder for plants to grow.  A useful hint is to give it a squeeze in your hand; if it falls apart when you open your fingers, it's dry enough to get digging. 

Measure and mark out the plot with stakes and string, before you lift of any grass. 

Using a garden fork and shovel, turn the soil to a depth of at least 30 centimetres. Making sure that the soil is free of grass, weeds and roots. 

Cover with about three centimetres of composted manure and fertiliser before working it in and raking the surface. 

Plant the garden

You can start seeded plants in advance by following the instructions listed on the packet and keeping them in a sunny window.  Click here for some tips from The Old Farmers Almanac.

Following your plan, plant your seedlings with space for them to grow. 

Stake peas, beans and tomatoes; use branches, a fence, tomato cages, even an old hockey stick would do the trick. 

Give your garden a good water to settle your plants into their new home. 

Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labour!

HELLO 2018

Say Yes To New Adventures

Make the Most of Prince Edward Island's Winter Wonderland. 

As fireworks light up the sky across the world it heralds a new year.  New hopes are forged while many reflect on the year that has gone by so quickly.

For many of us we start the year with the best of intentions to get fit, explore more, and stress less. Ahhh if only intentions pulled away the pounds.

With winter well and truly amongst us it’s easy to come up with an excuse to stay indoors, so we thought we would give you some inspiration to pull on your mittens and head outdoors for an adventure.

 Mill River

Located approximately 30 minutes from The Cottage is Mill River Golf Course.  And while it’s a little too nippy for a round of golf there is an abundance of winter-themed activities on offer. The course conveniently doubles as the perfect setting for cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. And if you don’t have all the gear for these activities you can hire these onsite.

To view the prices please click here.

Brookevale Provincial Ski Park

Brookvale Provincial Ski Park

If you bundle in the car and head an hour east you’ll find Brookvale Provincial Ski Park around an hour away from The Cottage. The park has a lot on offer with activities including cross-country and alpine skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

If you have always wanted to hit the slopes but aren’t sure how to get started you can get the snowball rolling with one click here.  

There is a range of classes available for all ages.

Download the Brookvale Snow Shoe Map 

Bonshaw Provincial Park

Bonshaw Provincial Park has a trail system covering 25 kilometres. There is many shorter trails that vary in length and intensity connected to the main trail.  

Bonshaw is an excellent spot to snowshoe or get out the cross-country skis.

A public Facebook group has arranged an event for anyone that wants to join them for a morning of snowshoeing. To find out more please click here.

Click here to download the Bonshaw Hills Trail Map

Something a little less strenuous

If you are more of a gym-goer and would prefer to get outside for something less strenuous but equally as fun here are some options that might be more suitable for you.

Sleigh Rides

There are a number of farms on the Island that offer sleigh rides throughout the winter months. 

Great Northern Adventures

The team at Great Northern Adventures offer sleigh rides through the winter months and to warm up afterwards there are fire pits and hot chocolate.

924 Fort Augustus Rd, Charlottetown

Potts Farm, Bonshaw

This third generation farm started doing sleigh rides in 1975 when owner Noel was asked if he could take a small birthday party group for a sleigh ride. The idea took off, with the family’s winter months soon revolving around the sleigh ride operation.

439 Bonshaw Road, Argyle Shore 

Phone: (902) 675-2794

Phone: (902) 894 7558

Snowmobiling on the Confederation Trail

When Prince Edward Island's railway was abandoned in 1989 Islanders were quick to notice a unique opportunity. The idea of a shared use walking and cycling trail in the summer and a snowmobile trail in the winter was born.

The Confederation Trail stretches 435 kilometres and goes from one end of the Island to the other. The closest section of the trail to Birch Hill is the O’Leary to Wellington section. A map can be downloaded here. http://www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/tour_confed_gui.pdf. The trail is classified as easy to moderate, so if you are after something a little more challenging you might want to go a little further between Wellington to Hunter River.

Freebie

And if you want a taste of a bit of everything there is a free family fun day being organized by watershed organizations from the Hunter-Clyde, Wheatley, and West Rivers, along with the PEI Department of Communities, Land and Environment, below is the details.

Family Fun Day

Learn more about Island wildlife, forest eco-sytems and sustainable woodlot use while having a little fun.

When: Saturday, January 27, 2018 - 9:00am to 1:00pm

Where: Strathgartney Equestrian Park, 18 Strathgartney Road, Bonshaw

Cost: Free

Highlights:

• Sleigh rides
• Snowshoeing
• Guided trail walks
• Chain saw clinic
• Woodworking
• Birds of prey
• Maple syrup demonstration

For more information please click here. 

So what are you waiting for?  Ready…set….Snow! 

Golfing your way through PEI

Whether you're a beginner golfer, a “regular”, or dreaming of turning professional - you'll find just the right golf course for your skill level. And the fees are lower than you might expect! 

From the air, Prince Edward Island might appear to be one giant golf course; rolling greens, sand and water traps alternating with woodlots. From there it just gets better. While PEI is Canada’s smallest province in both size and population, it squeezes in a staggering 27 stunning golf facilities across the island. Speaking of staggering, many of the courses are within such close proximately to beaches, restaurants and theatres that you can also hop over to other attractions to complement and round out your day. 

Mill River Golf Course is located in O’Leary – approximately a 20-25 minute drive from The Cottage. The course was opened in 1971 and was rated in the Top 100 Public Courses in Canada by The Globe and Mail. 

If you need a bit more inspiration to book your next game, here are 10 great reasons: 

1. Courses 

Golf is a way of life in Prince Edward Island. In fact, PEI has the most golf courses in Canada per capita. 

2. Accessibility 

On PEI, you’re never far from a course that’s right for you. We’ve got 27 courses for all level of play - and no more than 40 minutes away. 

3. Value 

The real value is the experience of playing PEI, but our courses always offer affordable rounds and packages that fit what you’re looking for. 

4. Convenience 

PEI is a small province, but we’re big in golf! At only 224 kilometres (140 miles), we’ve got more than 400 neighbouring fairways for you to choose from. 

5. Taste 

PEI owns its reputation as a culinary hot spot. Sure, we’re home to the Culinary Institute of Canada, but our world-renowned seafood, produce and other culinary offerings speak for themselves. 

6. Culture 

PEI lives through the arts. Year round, the Island is alive with festivals and events, with live music, theatre & entertainment of all sorts taking the stage, screen and halls across the province. 

7. Heritage 

In 1864, the Charlottetown Conference took place in Charlottetown. This meeting led to the creation of Canada, and earned PEI the designation of The Birthplace of Canada. With that as our background, and Anne of Green Gables as our unofficial cultural ambassador, our heritage plays a key role in all things Island. 

8. People 

Visit PEI for an authentic Island welcome. We’re proud of our worldwide reputation for our warm, friendly & welcoming manner. 

9. Play 

On PEI, “play” extends beyond the course. After a day on the links, our beaches, outdoor activities, arts & heritage experiences, culinary adventures, one-of-a-kind shopping, nightlife and places where you can just kick back and relax are always just minutes away. 

10. Island 

Perhaps above all, PEI is praised for its natural seaside beauty. Our red cliffs and pathways, white sand beaches, and multitude shades of green are an outstanding backdrop on or off the course. 

To find out more about PEI’s courses or to book a round, please visit http://www.golfpei.ca/

Mill River Golf Course

Explore PEI while geocaching

Do you consider yourself a treasure hunter?  That is pretty much what geocaching is about!  If you enjoy a walk in nature combined with a bit of adventure, then explore PEI with a GPS or your smart phone.  Download a free app and you’re ready to track the cache.

What exactly is a cache, you ask?  A cache is a small container, most likely camouflaged and a little off a beaten track or trail.  The cache is waterproof and contains a log book or perhaps even pins, badges or small toys.  There are thousands hidden in Prince County alone!  

When you find a cache, remove the log, enter the date found and sign your user name.  Then replace the cache in the same spot you found it.  Log onto the geocache site, and in many instances, you will find history of the area and many interesting stories.  You can see what others have written and how many have been adventuresome in the same area you just traversed.

Geocaching is enjoyed world-wide; so why not give it a try? You never know it might just end up being your new favourite outdoor activity.  On beaches, in parks, deserted roads, in forests, graveyards, in secluded areas across PEI, get out and enjoy the beauty of our Island.  A great place to begin your geocache experience is Green Park—a 4-minute drive from The Cottage!

For more information and to register:  www.geocaching.com

Article by Carolyn McKillop