I was happy to introduce some of my London cycling buddies to the Sunset Diner in St Mary’s recently. I like the ride up to St Mary’s, 40 km there and then 40 km back from my end of town. You can see something close to our route here. I especially like it with breakfast in the middle. It’s trending uphill on the way there. Trending downhill on the way back. Perfect. There are also alpacas en route.
What’s not to love?
Okay, the big hill out of town, after breakfast? That I could do without.
Oh, and the owner of the Sunset recognizing all the bike traffic he gets, has installed a handy bike rack, pump, and mobile repair station. Convenient.
I think businesses that actively, positively respond to cyclists deserve our support. See you there for the healthy choice breakfast!
And here’s Nat and me, the last time we did this ride a few weeks ago. Okay I added the flowers to divert your attention from locals nonchalantly eating breakfast.
One last thing I love about St Mary’s. It’s also home to my favourite outdoor swimming location, The Quarry. Deep and terrific for swimming. We didn’t stop this time. But I think it would be a great idea for a future trip.
The famous Swimming Quarry is Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool! It started out as a limestone quarry. Between 1930 and 1935, the quarry filled with water and was used as a popular swimming spot by the locals. In 1945, the town bought it and the adjoining Thames Quarry along with 50 acres of surrounding land for $2,200. Today, swimmers can enjoy a new water trampoline, large grassed area, sand volleyball and snacks from the Tiki Hut.
