5th Annual Wallop Tour—Barry Rowsome—September 12, 2024
We set off on a cold Thursday morning with 10 cars. After getting organized we hit the road on time at 8:30am.
From our Manotick starting point, we drove down Roger Stevens Dr to Smiths Falls and our bio-break. After the break the fun roads came on fast when we turned onto Otter Lake Road. Then we hopped on the old Kingston Rd for more twisties and a drive that no one wanted it to end with super fun twisties had by all. Then we went driving on Hwy 15 on some new pavement taking us to CR 8 which brought us to Elgin with a quick hop to Portland. From here we continued onto Bush Rd to Sand Lake Rd. We soon found ourselves on Jones Falls Rd heading onto Battersea. While enjoying more twists and turns the time seemed so short as we rolled into Kingston for lunch at the RAXX. The morning drive was spectacular!
Lunch at the RAXX was delicious. But it took up all our time that we had planned for including the Spearhead Brewery. This might have been a blessing as the Spearhead was under construction and had no idea we were coming – in spite of emails and calls to confirm. It just shows that no matter how much you plan there can be challenges.
We left without a sip of beer and off to my favourite brewery the Arbru Solar Brewery in Mallorytown. On our route to our location we travelled on even more great roads getting us back on track arriving at our expected time. At the brewery we were greeted by the super friendly staff and owner who all made everyone feel so welcomed. We took the opportunity to have some yummy beers and ciders and many of us bought a few cans, as well. This is a very unique experience since this brewery is totally solar powered and off the grid.
After we departed the Arbru we headed off on some more fantastic roads. They just kept coming from tree canopies to lake views we found our last stop in Merrickville at a new brewery, The Gather. This location did not disappoint! Again yummy beers to taste and purchase. Our number dwindled at Merrickville as we ended the day. It was a day of great food, tasty beers, amazing roads enjoyed with our Miata friends – boy what a fantastic fun-filled day.
Thanks to all that joined us for the 5th annual Wallop Tour with Mike leading and me sweeping we experienced lots of great times. I can’t wait to plan next years Wallop Tour.
Barry Rowsome