Cabot Trail Day 5

In which our tired legs demand rest and we grind our way around the coast- not a rest day!

After a meh breakfast of rubber eggs, inedible oatcakes, sandpaper cheese scones and undrinkable coffee (the yoghurt, eggs and grapefruit were good) we took a group photo where some even managed to hoist their bikes overhead (after decanting water bottles and bags).

We then set off southward, with the first destination White Point. The first 20 km or so were easy ups and downs with lovely views of glassy-still sea in Dingwall Harbour, then onto the main highway (no shoulder) before turning onto White Point Road.

This was relatively quiet which was fortunate as some of the hills we ground up there were only passable by sidewinding up. We have no idea how Henry made it up in his “gear of the day”. At the literal end of the road we followed a path out to the point, initially accompanied by the foghorn but it was clearing so it soon ceased. Beautiful spot.

there was a small cemetery near the end dedicated to the “unknown sailor”.

wild roses with a beautiful rose scent

Our fearless leader Danielle, below

Onward ho, with half of us electing to ride the van up with our bikes back to the main road rather than tackling the 19% grades we had screamed down on the way in, and half grinding up them. We followed the coast on the main road for many km, passing through several tiny fishing villages and lots of scenic viewpoints.

this caught our eye

We had a short stint in a construction zone, with a one way zone on gravel controlled by a traffic light, but unfortunately it was uphill, in the full sun, and a real grind with traffic impatient to pass behind us.

there were shoulders at times, but other points none

We took our time with multiple stops for pictures

the road goes ever on and on

naturally there were undulations! Not exactly a recovery day.

lunch was at the periwinkle inn, expensive and meh coffee, but at least caffeine.

A short ride later we arrived at Ingonish Beach after the last hill of the day – a man made beach which appeared very popular.

This inn is under renovations but has a spectacular perch!

Back at the resort about 3 p.m., we split to do different things. I elected to go for a swim at the private beach nearby which was very refreshing and perfect for the heat of the day.

After happy hour we repaired to the hotel for dinner – it was very slow so we didn’t get out until 9 pm. Good seafood chowder though.

Highlight of the day: White Point total cycling: 54 km, 697 m elev gain