From the Pacific to the Atlantic - Crossing Canada by Train
2 October - 5 November 2024

Canada 2024
22 October 2024: Day 21

Sydney to Moncton (via Chéticamp), Nova Scotia to New Brunswick.

Introduction

Our itinerary had us taking a leisurely drive from Sydney, along a new section of the Cabot Trail then heading west to Moncton again (so we could see the Hopewell Rocks at low tide). However an email alerted us that we had left a bag of cords and battery rechargers behind at Archie and Isadore, so after weighing up the costs, we headed back to Chéticamp. Sure enough we recovered the bag of precious cords and promptly turned around and headed west towards the Margarees for the fourth time. Back over the very bumpy road, back past the stands of trees in their golds and reds. Back past Bras D'Or Lake and eventually back across the Canso Causeway. The it was simply a case of driving west on the TCH to Moncton. We needed to stop for drink and food. We had run out of Tim Horton's stops on the TCH so the signs at Exit 20 for a farm shop and dining were inviting. Not sure what to expect we pulled into the Whistleberry Market and eatery. It is a new shop, full of farm produce, locally sourced meats and a thriving cafe. Just what we needed. Then on to Moncton, back to the Amsterdam Inn but this time we were "upgraded" to the "Honeymoon Suite" a large suite with king bed and a bathtub beside the bed. (The advertised rate for this room has a premium of $120). Hmmmm. Dinner was at the adjacent New Brunswick Casino, where the food exceeded our expectations - again.

Sydney to Chéticamp (Again)

Breakfast menu at the Holiday Inn, Sydney.

Heading out of Sydney

Seal Island Bridge

Great Bras D'Or Lake

Jersey Cove

Big Yellow School Bus - we followed it for miles until it turned off just south of Chéticamp

Chéticamp to Moncton

After successfully retreiving our recharging cords from Archie and Isadore, we headed south again and back through the Margarees again. Then over the Canso Causeway and west on the TCH all the way to Moncton. By the time we reached Exit 20 we needed a break, but the TCH signs were not helpful. A food sign caought our attention so we decided to check. It turned out to be a new cafe and farm produce place known as Whistleberry Market. It had a great range of food, including a lot they grew and produced themselves. We considered ourselves lucky. Then on to Moncton and the Amsterdam Inn again.

Margaree Bridge