July 2023
Last years whirlwind vacation was hectic to say, none the least, with the planning, re-arranging, potential Via Rail strike, delays, cancellations, fires, etc.
So this year’s planned 4 day road trip, seemed rather, well, anti-climatic. This trip would only involve driving, eating, walking and swimming. I was only required to drive there, tour around, swim and drive home…. However, the accomplishment of swimming at Sandbanks Beach, in Picton Ontario, took me almost 4 years to complete.
The initial plan was to complete this beach in 2020, after Lake Manitou and Devonshire in 2019. But, we all suffered through the worst pandemic in our lifetime and we were all encouraged to stay home.
Here we are though! I did it! This road trip would not be complete without exploring a few more Ontario Parks – #Lakeonthemountain, #Presqu’ile, #CharlestonLake and #Sandbanks (of course).
With driving anxiety still something I struggle with and as this trip would take me from Mississauga all the east past Kingston, ON, I opted to travel on the toll highway 407 – its quicker, quieter, cleaner, well maintained and not all the trucks, transports, buses, motorcycles that clog up the 401.
Once on the 407, I engaged the cruise control at 105 km and enjoyed my coffee and the scenery.
I arrived in Brockville for my first vacation excursion – the Brockville Railway Tunnel.
Entrance to Brockville Railway Tunnel
After close to 4 hours of driving, I desperately needed to stretch my legs and this would be just the place for me!
The walk from one end to the other and then back too no more than 30 minutes but oh so interesting! I snapped a few photos about the history and the construction aspect, as I knew my dad would enjoy those.
I made my way to their local Tim’s for a coffee and got back into the car. Time to head back west and check into my hotel in Napanee #FoxMotorInn.
I finally arrived at the hotel just after 530 pm – I’d been on the road since 10 am this morning! Time for a sit down meal and a swim.
I had the benefit of a local family type restaurant #tammyscountrykitchen across the street and made my way there.
After dinner, I hauled the suitcase, the bags and the cooler out of the car. My room was right there – very convenient when one’s feet are tired…..lol…
I donned my suit, grabbed a towel and walked around to the back of the property and went for a quick dip…….ah SO REFRESHING and much needed.
Time to call it a night. Tata!!
Tomorrow: Sandbanks and one more beach off the list. Forecast is 27 degrees and sunny. Perfect weather for a beach stroll and a swim.
Stay tuned.
Thank you for reading and for letting me share.
Joye
Single Older Woman - Living Life Passionately 