Image created from the top of the Miscou Lighthouse.

They say the second time’s a charm, right? Or is it the third?

After a little “weather hiccup” earlier this summer on my first trip to Acadian Peninsula, we decided a fall cycling trip was in order. This time, we were determined to make it past the trailhead and soak in the stunning views along parts of the 610 km of scenic cycling trails.

With clouds and a chance of rain in the forecast, we crossed our fingers, packed up the bikes and headed north to the Acadian Peninsula. While the weather didn’t hand us a perfect sunny weekend we were hoping for, it was far more forgiving than the downpour I faced last time.

The VeloRoutes offer a unique cycling experience in New Brunswick, blending breathtaking coastal scenery with a well-maintained network of trails. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, this destination is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Acadian Peninsula.

And trust me, we are all about the “leisurely” part.

First Stop: Les Chalets de la Plage in Bas-Caraquet

Les Chalets de la Plage in Bas-Caraquet is where we set up in our cozy cottage. It was the perfect home base for the weekend. These seaside cottages offer a blend of comfort and serenity in the most simplest way. It's just steps from the beach so you can fall asleep to the soothing sound of the waves.

Supreme Cottages host 3 bedrooms and the Panoramic, Advantageous and The Accessible hosts 2 bedrooms. And the lighthouse....well, who doesn't love a lighthouse.

The Supremes have 3 bedrooms, ideal for families or larger groups — Supreme Cottages with balcony

3 bedroom **Supreme** cottage with second floor balcony

The **Panoramic** and **Advantageous** have 2 bedrooms

Spacious seating deck with view of the beach.

With 17 cottages in total, there’s something for everyone. The Supremes have 3 bedrooms, ideal for families or larger groups. The Panoramic and Advantageous offer 2-bedroom options for a more intimate stay, while The Accessible is thoughtfully adapted for guests with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

The cottages themselves are simple and nothing too fancy. They come with the basics like dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, and a small tabletop BBQ. It’s a blank slate, ready for you to make your own. But the real beauty here is being outdoors.

Though the setting is peaceful in the fall, I'm sure summers here are alive with energy. The cottages border a public beach complete with a kids' splash area, so the sound of laughter and memory-making moments fills the air. It’s the perfect blend of serenity and lively beachside fun.

Find out more details about your stay at Les Chalets de la Plage.

When **Annie**, our host, shared that some people choose to spend the final days of their life here, I immediately understood why. It really is heavenly.
The **peaceful atmosphere** of the ocean and surrounding **natural beauty** offer a rare sense of calm.

If there is a heaven, this is what it looks like to me.

Sit and watch the storm pass or the sunrise on a clear morning.

A Wet Adventure on the Véloroute

Of course, in all my excitement to hit the Véloroute from Caraquet to Bertrand, I forgot to check my camera and left the SIM card in my laptop. DOH!! Classic move. So, I was stuck taking phone photos for this leg of the ride.

The first 11 km was cloudy but comfortable cycling weather, however by the time we turned around and finished those last 11 km, the sky opened up and we were completely soaked, looking like a couple of wet dogs. Despite drenched clothes and shivers from the cold, we laughed it off and headed to the cottage for a wardrobe change and on the hunt for something warm to eat.

Pho-nomenal Comfort Food: Our Visit to Saigon Maxim

After a chilly, wet ride, we set off in search of warm comfort food, and nothing hit the spot quite like the Pho at Saigon Maxim in Shippagan. The moment I tasted that fragrant broth, I was transported back to our unforgettable trip to Vietnam years ago.

The soup is so authentic it felt like I was savoring a bowl on the bustling streets of Hanoi (minus the honking Vespas, of course). Located at 146 Rue 1 in Shippagan, this oldie but goodie seems to be a local favorite, as evidenced by the steady stream of take-out bags lining the counter.

It’s one of those places you would never think to go, but so happy you did. I wish I could send you to a link but they don’t have a website nor could I find a FB page that I could find. They are really old school.

Saigon Maxim, 146 route 1 in Shippagan, NB

Nothing hits to spot like a good Noodle Soup

Sisters Sonia and Brenda, though not the owners, have been serving smiles and delicious meals at Maxim Saigon for over 30 years.

If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Vietnamese and Asian flavors, this place can't be beat! Perfect for those seeking comfort food that warms the soul!

Day 2: The Adventure Continues in Shippagan!

The weather looked promising today, so we set off toward Shippagan to explore the section of the path that passes through town called the Shore line Trail and goes around Le Goulet.

Some parts of this trail are shared with traffic, which can be a bit tricky. While it's a secondary road rather than a main highway, there was still quite a bit of vehicule activity, so be mindful as you ride.

As we made our way through Shippagan, you can't help but be awed by the massive fishing boats lining the harbor. These vessels, built for catching crab, shrimp, and lobster, are truly impressive. And I grew up in a lobster fishing village. But nothing like this.

One part of the path even takes you right by the storage area for these gigantic boats and the major commercial seaport that is the heart of the community. This gives you a front-row seat to the local fishing industry.

Massive seafood vessels bookend this sailboat

But the adventure didn’t stop there! Another segment of the trail follows the coast, featuring 2 km of wooden walkways that wind through the heart of Shippagan. These walkways hug the shoreline.

It’s a picturesque route that allows you to soak in the scenic views and vibrant community while enjoying the fresh sea air. It's a perfect blend of nature and local culture!

It's also a shared walkway with pedestrians so again, be mindful.

From the Ocean to the Plate: Dining Highlights at Pinokkio Pizzeria Resto Bar

Which brings us to our last, but most definitely not least, destination. In fact, I saved the best for last!

At the head of the trail (or the tail, depending on how you approached your route), this restaurant is a MUST-visit: Pinokkio Pizzeria Resto Bar. NOTE: RESERVATIONS are a must*****

The flair and fun might be at the pizza bar, but the star of the show is Chef Mehdi’s creations and platting artistry.

Pinokkio Pizzeria and Resto Bar, 121 16e rue, Shippegan, NB, Canada, New Brunswick

Originally from Tunisia, Chef Mehdi has participated in many culinary shows in his country and was even part of Battle Chef Arab. He was kind enough to come out to our table and introduce himself, which was a real treat. He even allowed me to the kitchen for a quick portrait.

Then he brought out a plate of marinara style bay scallops that were freshly harvested that morning and served with fish broth, red peppers, and chives. The creative plating with the pebbles and the scallops gave me goosebumps; it was so beautiful.

It’s hard to believe there are only 3 of them in that kitchen.

Chef Mehdi Turki at Pinokkio Pizzeria Resto Bar

Chef Mehdi and his team in the Pinokkio Kitchen

Bay Scallops Marinara Style served with Fish Broth

Jason had the pleasure of enjoying the bay scallops since I don’t eat seafood. He also had a beet and goat cheese salad as an entrée while I opted for the fish cakes (yes, I know... it’s my usual thing! But I love them. LOL).

For my main course, I chose the special of the day: tataki tuna with red tuna from Miscou Island, which is coated with black sesame and a blend of 12 spices (tataki), served with orange-zested quinoa, a brunoise of vegetables, and the chef's teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce and maple syrup from a local sugar shack. While Jason went for the classic American pizza.

Beautiful and perfectly cooked Beets and Goat Cheese salad

Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside **Fish Cakes**

**Tataki Tuna** with red tuna harvest in Miscou Island.

**American Pizza** with a hand tossed dough and cooked in wood fire oven.

After all that delicious food we decided to spit the desert. A caramelized pear on a Neapolitan pastry, sitting on a drizzle of wild blueberry sauce topped with caramel and pecan pieces, (Chef Mehdi kindly omitted the pecans due to my tree nut allergy.) served with a side scoop of vanilla ice cream.

It was an explosion of hot and cold in your mouth.

Savor Every Moment and Every Bite that Life has to Offer

Life, much like the weather, can be unpredictable. Sometimes you have to ride your bike in the rain to appreciate to the good stuff—whether it’s a stunning view or a plate of delicious food. There will be challenges, but those moments make the sunny days and tasty meals feel even sweeter.

After 50, I’ve learned that it’s about pushing through, staying active, and embracing everything—rain or shine. So, keep moving, stay curious, and savor every bite of life’s adventure.

You never know what beauty or joy (or meal!) is waiting just around the corner.

Disclosure: Some of the experiences mentioned in this post were gifted; however, all opinions expressed are entirely my own. All photography featured is my own work, capturing the essence of the journey. My blog highlights Places, Faces, and Flavours, with a focus on embracing life after 50 and making the most of every adventure

Cycling the VeloRoutes of the Acadian Peninsula: Where Adventure Meets Cuisine