It was an early start at 6:30 this morning as I wanted to get to the bike shop in Owen Sound as early as possible.

It was slightly cool but otherwise a beautiful morning as we rode through a mixture of farmland and bush with occasional glimpses at the water of Georgian Bay. The road for the most part was gently rolling. It was a day to ride just for the sheer joy of riding.

Rachel’s Bakery & 50’s Diner in Lion’s Head was our first stop. Here I enjoyed a peach muffin and the first latte I’ve had since Vancouver while sitting at a 50’s diner-style chrome table. The late and muffin were both delicious. The town of Lions Head itself was quite picturesque to ride through. By now Elaine and I had both declared this to be one of the best riding days we’d had!

Sailboats racing in the distance

After our stop at Rachel’s we continued to make our way towards Wiarton. At Colpoy’s Bay we enjoyed the view of some pretty nice houses on one side of the road and a great view of Georgian Bay on the other. Off in the distance we could see about 20 sailboats engaged in a race. They appeared to be rounding a mark as some were flying their spinnakers and some were under mainsail and jib.

As we approached Wiarton the traffic got considerably heavier. It was then I realized that this was Friday of a long weekend. A stop at Tim Hortons for a sandwich and drink was followed by a stop at Wiarton Willie’s home. As Wee Willie appeared not to be home we were soon on our way. By now we were riding through cottage country. There were some gorgeous homes overlooking the water.

Clear water in Georgian Bay

Kemble Women’s Institute Lookout

As we neared Owen Sound we stopped briefly at the Kemble Women’s Institute Lookout for a great view out over a valley we had just ridden out of. A short time later, at 10th street in Owen Sound I turned off towards the bike shop while Elaine carried on to the campground.

When I arrived at Bikeface bike shop Louise’s bike was on the stand being worked on. The mechanic directed me to a great little coffee shop where I could pass the time while he worked on my bike. A little over an hour later I returned and he was just finishing up on my bike. The fellow did a few other adjustments and gave me a few tips on maintenance and soon I was on my way.

If anyone ever needs a bike shop in Owen Sound I would certainly recommend Bikeface. They were very accommodating in getting me in and out on my way quickly!

At about 130 km, after one if the most enjoyable cycling days to date, I rolled into camp.