Cycling in Ottawa

Recently, I headed out determined to enjoy an afternoon cycling in the nation's capital. It was beautiful, the air was balmy and still, the sky clear blue. Perfect conditions for a cycle along the Rideau River.


After stopping for a sandwich and coffee at a mellow little cafe in New Edinburgh, I was back on my bike and and headed to explore the bikepath along the Ottawa River when I came across this view. The water reflected the old Ottawa City Hall buildings perfectly. I was only one of dozens who stopped to capture the picture.


By the time I'd reached the Ottawa River, the sun had settled low in the sky and the view up the river towards Gatineau was serenely lovely. It was so peaceful I felt I had the entire river to myself -- though in fact only a few hundred metres away rush hour traffic was careening along the parkway.


Cycling towards home, I took a brief detour to explore Major's Hill Park. It meant pushing my bike up a steep slope but the view from the top was worth it.

The sun was sitting so low in the sky by the time I took this shot I had to make a mad dash home in, as it turned out, a vain attempt to beat the darkness.

I am grateful to have been able to enjoy such a perfect fall day in Ottawa - particularly given that I am so often homesick for Nova Scotia. It was good to be reminded of just how beautiful the city can be and how lucky I am to have the time, energy and good health to explore it.