A flip of a coin helped us decide on the destination for a recent Saturday afternoon walk. South, down to the waterfront, it was to be.
These silos are certainly a prominent feature at the foot of Bathurst Street. Built in 1928 to store malt, they might not be to everyone’s liking, as during the past 35 years in which they’ve been out-of-use, there has been much discussion about taking them down. However, those that felt that they contribute to a more complete picture of Toronto’s past, won out and they were designated as an important historical site, and allowed to stay, after rubble and any loose pieces were cleared away or repaired. I posted about them here, when I went to see the sculpture garden called Ireland Park, that’s on the bit of land to their south, and can say that a walk alongside these massive soaring silos is very cool.
We didn’t go that way on this day. Rather we turned left and walked the path between the water and a narrow strip of land that has been beautifully planted. This small slip of nature in the city, which includes a protected wetland reserve (previously written about here) is a lovely example of what can be done in a relatively small space.
The gardens end at the foot of Spadina …
The Tiki Taxi takes people from there to the Toronto islands, a recreational area of beaches, restaurants, walking paths and an amusement park. (We’re going there with our friend Andrea soon, so I’ll be able to show you what it’s like.)
The boardwalk continues eastward …
Further to the east we found that our visit to the waterfront coincided with that of some interesting guests to the city — Three tall ships were in town, for the Redpath Waterfront Festival. People were invited to board them but the lineups were long, so we passed on that.
(Readers from afar might not realize that, while being located considerably inland, Toronto is accessible by ships from the Atlantic coast, via the St. Lawrence River, so these massive crafts sailed here.)
While being reproductions of the original boats, they are accurate representations and were stunning to see up close.
There was an American 1812-era Topsail Schooner – Pride of Baltimore II – , a 16th century Spanish Galleon – El Galeón -, and a Norwegian Viking Ship like those that sailed over 1,000 years ago – Draken Harald Hårfagre.
Apparently, these boats were out sailing in the harbour the day after we were were there, heading out for a race. I’m sorry we missed that as it was probably quite a sight.
↑ A lack of fires didn’t stop this rescue boat from strutting its stuff! ↑
From there, we took a quick stroll through the handicraft market and food fair and then headed home, stopping by at the liquor store on the way, as a glass of icy rum punch and a chair on the deck were calling our names.
Thanks very much for checking out my blog.
xo loulou
