Day 12 | Linwood to Cheticamp | 170 km

Jim and I start out at 7 and turn directly into the wind. I have a feeling it’s going to be a long, long day. Fortunately there’s no sign of rain in the forecast.

image

image

Lots of climbing sets the tone for the day early on. Route 19 is gusty and hilly the whole way.

image

image

image

We finally get to Port Hood after 65 km with every intention of stopping to rest, but of the few restaurants we see, nothing is open at 9:30.

The next town on the map is Mabou at 80 km, so we plod on. It’s a struggle to make it there with a headwind that won’t let up and hills around every corner. By the time we get to Shining Waters Eatery, we’re well overdue for a break.

image

image

image

The wind gets worse from that point on. As much as it hurts physically, the mental aspect of a ride like this is the toughest part. I have to constantly distract myself just to keep it together. Taking pictures always helps.

image

image

image

image

After 135 km we take another break at a small restaurant near Margaree Harbour. A simple baked potato gives me the jumpstart I need.

image

image

image

The rest of the way to Cheticamp is more of the same. Brutal winds and a steady supply of hills. We reach the campground at 3:45. I then set up my tent, inhale three bananas and take a long nap.

image

image

image

Supper is delayed an hour since so many people are late getting in. As usual, it’s worth waiting for. My huge plate of pasta disappears in no time flat.

2 Comments

Leave a reply to Judy McLellan Cancel reply