We started at the Mews in Manotick. The Tour was on time with the 1st group leaving at 9am and the 2nd group at 915am – with a special thanks to Ron Buck for helping setup the CB for Evelyn prior to starting.
We had a nice drive from Manotick travelling onto Roger Stevens Dr to Rosedale Rd which had a few twisties on our way to Hwy 43. We took Hwy 43 turning onto Old Sly’s Road to our first stop at Heritage House Museum, Smiths Falls. We arrived at 10am, right on time for our planned 10am start. We had a fun tour through the house with a great guide telling us the history of the house, its origins and much of the history of the town.
I think Al took pictures of everything and Roger played the antique piano – who knew he could play. He is not just a mechanic with a pretty face. Our visit was very informative and fun, I think everyone learned a little more about that era. There are always little hiccups, I had a little tumble on the way out as a board on the sidewalk popped up and I went down— BOOM. I am ok now, I had so much help to get myself going again, thanks. And yes I still like the old wood sidewalks.
One member had a car issue and Roger helped them out- he is pretty handy to have around. At 11:15am we were on our way to lunch at Rideau Ferry. We drove through some familiar roads like the Golf Club Rd, then onto Bay Rd which has some twisties – so much fun. Our next turn was onto the Rideau Ferry Road where we had a short delay being held up with bridge construction. We arrived on time at CC’s on the Rideau for a delicious lunch. The first group and then the second group all sat down for lunch where Erin the manager made sure we all got great service.
After lunch many went next door to the ice cream, after all we cannot do a tour without ice cream – it was so yummy. Plus a lovely area to walk around.
From the picturesque Rideau Ferry we were off to the Jabulani Winery. On route we drove down many roads the group had never been on before arriving at Jabulani Winery a little early. Here we all had the opportunity to try a variety of their wines and cinder with the $10 tasting and a few purchased the cheese plates for the added extra. With empty pockets after buying some wine and cider.
Although, some headed off on there own the tour officially ended in Richmond with several of the group having dinner at Danby’s.
In conclusion, I want to thank Mike Bernie and my wife, Karen for all the help they provided for this tour. Ron Buck for being the sweep for group 1.
Mike for leading group 2 and Chris Powell for being the sweep for group 2. The saying is it takes a village – in this case it takes great support of great member volunteers to help the tours run smoothly.
Each of our destinations were great to work with when setting up this tour and they were all very welcoming and supportive. But of course, none of this could have been done without the support of the members on our successful tour.
Regards
Barry Rowsome
