Day 16 - 18 - Merrickville, ON

Gary researched this town and others on the Rideau Canal (pronounced read-oh by the locals). He was unsure just what we would find. When we drove in, his comment was, "I think we hit the jackpot". Was he ever right! This CHARMING town of about 3,000 permanent residents is just like an English village, complete with pubs, charming B&B's, artisan shops, wonderful restaurants, beautiful stone homes and best of all, this working canal which connects Ottawa and Kingston via the Rideau River, a series of lakes and a man-made canal with 33 locks. It was conceived and built right after the War of 1812 when it was feared continuing hostilities with Americans would threaten the inland ports. It was used commercially for some years but is now devoted totally to pleasure craft. Parks Canada runs the system including the hand cranked locks, the revolving bridges (one right next to our campground), and the grassy park areas and gardens which flank the canal. Our campground, run by the local Lions Club, is right on the canal. When we look out of our front windows, we see the canal and passing boats. Our weather here has been perfect, and we feel like we are living a dream. I have not been able to stop taking pictures since we got here, and have selected a few representative ones. This place is one to put on your visit list!!!