Some places make you feel right at home, even when you’re just visiting. The Maritimes are like that. Whether it’s the friendly people, the stunning shoreline, or the salty sea air, the place casts a spell on you.
It was the COWS Ice Cream and sticky buns that called to me as a kid. (They still do.) Now, it’s the thought of Peggy’s Cove and Jellybean Row that brings me back. In a way, I’m every bit as hooked as the mackerel at the end of an angler’s line in the Northumberland Strait: it’s my third trip to the Maritimes in the past year.
I started this ride with my bicycle tire dipped in the Pacific Ocean. As I write this, I’m drying off from swimming in the Atlantic. What a feeling. The journey isn’t over yet, but the finish line is getting closer and closer.
A few thoughts/stories from the past while:
1. One thing you notice a lot more of in Eastern Canada is the pride in provincial flags. New Brunswick’s red, yellow, and blue banner is everywhere, much like the blue saltire in Nova Scotia. Just as common is the Acadian flag. Name the last time you saw an Ontario flag flying from someone’s home. I’m willing to bet the next time would be the first.
2. In the span of a day, I had an egg thrown at me from a passing car (it missed), and I rode over a stretch of broken glass without getting a flat tire. In the deep recesses of my saddlebags, I must be carrying a horseshoe.
3. Speaking of luck, after seven provinces of problem-free riding, my bike’s magic run has come to an end. I had to repair the bottom bracket in Truro. Thankfully, it was a minor operation.
4. Oh, how good it feels to rest. After cycling 100km a day for the past two months, the prospect of sitting still sounds awful good these days. I’ll indulge in some longer breaks while visiting friends in Halifax and Antigonish.
Things I’ve seen:
1. Coastal cities.
From Campbellton, to Miramichi, to Halifax, I’ve covered Atlantic Canada’s coastline — leading to some of the most beautiful views on the entire trip.
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2. Shades of blue.
Speaking of beautiful views…
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Distance travelled: 6,500 km
Best ride: Campbellton to Bathurst, NB.
Martin Bauman 
I agree with you that our Atlantic provinces have some very beautiful views. You must almost feel like a modern day explorer as you have viewed our great country from the seat of a bicycle. Safe travels to the end goal.
Well done, Martin! Thanks for sharing your reflections, and those beautiful views! You’re almost there; you can already say you’ve cycled from coast to coast!
I am really enjoying reading your posts and seeing your pictures. I’m thankful for your safety and “good luck” on the road. You are now so close to the finish line; well done!
I always love reading your observations from the road! We are very proud of the work you are doing in spreading awareness and raising funds for mental health. We can’t wait to welcome you back home!
you continue to blow me away. I just keep saying i can’t believe he’s already “there” when I check in to see where you’re at. It just seems so far out that it only takes a few months to physically propel your body across the country. It’s been an inspirational follow