Sunday, September 20, 2009

Grand Manan V


Contemplating Life...I've Missed the Sea

A 10.5 hour drive through New England's curvy, mountainous roads finally delivered us back into Canada and eventually to Blacks Harbour, NB where we boarded the Grand Manan V this afternoon. Last night, we rested at a little mom & pop motel, decorated to within an inch of its life, though thankfully it was clean.

For dinner, we headed to a well-known drive-up fish & chip place where they serve fresh fish chowder that tastes like something your grandmother would have made. Small chunks of soft potatoes and fish rested in a light and flavourful broth, not floury, served alongside one of those soft white rolls that you can only find in the Maritimes and, if you're lucky, at the odd church supper in the city.

We stopped at Ovenhead Smokers en route to the ferry, a very well known smokehouse that does wonders with salmon. The three of us shared a small tub of smoked salmon pate with crackers while we waited for the ferry...so delicious.

The voyage across the Bay of Fundy was clear and lovely today, and we were entertained by groups of dolphins and the odd whale giving us a little show. There is something magical about those majestic sea creatures emerging from the watery depths for brief seconds before plunging back under the surface.

Mike, my brother, made delicious tartines for dinner with tomatoes, herbed goat cheese, a bit of olive oil and garlic, and a shaving of parmesan cheese. Simple, healthy and delicious. These little toasted delicacies paired well with a fruity New Zealand sauvignon blanc we transported from the mainland.

It's been 7 years since my husband and I were here, when we came for our honeymoon. It's wonderful to be back.

We're planning some interesting culinary adventures while we're here. I'm looking forward to the fresh fish and seafood that is so plentiful in the middle of the Bay of Fundy. Many food experiences to be shared over the coming days, I'm certain, so stay tuned.

3 comments:

  1. Happy anniversary! Hope you enjoy GM!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks! We spent part of the afternoon watching two whales playing in the cove in front of the cottage. Another amazing meal tonight...details to be posted soon.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I so love your blog. The way you write makes the reader feel like they are right there experiencing it also. Thanks to your Brother for suggesting your site. Beautiful job Hon!!! TY

    ReplyDelete