Monday, August 1, 2011

The 3 R's

What a GREAT weekend I just had...WOW!!! George Street Festival and the Holyrood Squid Fest were a lot of fun. Nothing like a good ole partay to get your blood flowing. However, I am going to save all the details for another post.

First let me apologize for for my break in the communications. Even the most active of adventurers needs to take some time for the 3 R's. Reflect, Recuperate, and Reconnaissance. So what has been on the go? That was what everyone I saw over the weekend was asking.

Reflect:
As you all know my main adventure for the last few years has been in Scuba Diving with the help of Ocean Quest Adventure Resort. If you haven't checked them out lately they are still doing great things above and below the ocean surface. Do yourself a favor and go on one of their Whale Snorkeling tours...It's a game changing life altering event. Perfect for the moderate and advanced adventurer alike. If snorkeling is not your bag, go with them while others do the snorkeling. In my humble opinion it is the most exciting whale experience you will have in the province!

For more info on OQ check them out at www.oceanquestadventures.com or check out their whale snorkeling tour on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSi6goODJEA


Recuperate:
Last winter I suffered a slight setback. A severe sprain in my right leg had me out of the water for some time. It got me thinking about what other adventures that may interest me. What else does life have to offer on this great Rock. What better way to experience new things? I followed my gypsy blood line and moved to another part of Newfoundland...lol, to a town lovingly called "South Dildo" in Trinity Bay approximately one hour west of St. John's. Just south of Dildo proper and west of "Spread Eagle". I KNOW!!! It makes one wonder what the people of this area were thinking, or doing when they first settled these shores so many years ago. ;-) 

Aside from the amusing names South Dildo is close to the start(or finish) of the Baccalieu Trail which winds it's way from the Whitbourne/Markland area up to Grates Cove and back down through Conception Bay North winding up around Cupids/Brigus. A total trip of 230 kilometers. From what I have seen of it so far it's an amazing coastline filled with hidden treasures and lots to do and see. The perfect place for anyone to get their thoughts together, lick their wounds, and plan their next great adventure. For more info on the Baccalieu Trail check out http://www.the-baccalieu-trail.com/

Recon: 

Here are some of my highlights so far:

Markland/Whitbourne:
The Rodriguez Winery - http://rodrigueswinery.com/ Have a nice visit at this excellent winery, meet the people, take in the history, and enjoy some very good berry wines. My suggestion while you are there is to ask Corinne to try her Ultimate Bites ;-)
The Old Railroad Track - For those with Off-Roading spirit take your 4x4 on the Old Track from Whitbourne to Ocean Pond or Placentia. Easy ride and lots to see. Maybe even stop to pick a few berries, snag a trout, or go for a dip.

Dildo:
Scallop Dive - Just about any where you hit the water from Old Shop to New Harbour you are sure to get a feed of Scallops. Advanced diver certification required as most  "good" scallop beds don't show up till after 60 ft.
Inn By the Bay - http://www.dildoinns.com/ A great place to lay your head and enjoy a good meal.

Green's Harbour/Whiteway: 
Back Side Pond Park: Privately owned RV park and Campground. This lovely facility has all amenities to facilitate 50 RV's and 103 campsites. Hit the beaches on the private pond or scenic Trinity Bay. Great for overnight stays and day use. For more info call 1-888-826-6661.

TO BE CONTINUED......