Take a Cycling Eco Tour of the Clam Harbour Loop
Length: 36.5 km round trip
Discover beaches, unique biodiversity, a solar-powered living history museum, and an environmental learning centre while cycling along the pristine coastline of the Eastern Shore. Explore the secluded and ecologically abundant Eastern Shore during the perfect cycling day trip through the Clam Harbour Loop.
- Bike and helmet
- Water bottle
- Sturdy sneakers
- Sun protection
- Bathing suit and towel
Begin your adventure at the Deanery Project
The Deanery Project is a community experiential learning centre dedicated to the arts and the environment (1 hour from downtown Halifax). Complete with a Bike Hub for emergency bike repairs and bike workshops, the Deanery is the perfect spot to begin your cycling adventure.
Hop on your bike and begin the 35.6 km loop along back roads to discover scenic ocean views and opportunities for side trips, picnics, and swimming. The two significant stops in this itinerary are Clam Harbour Beach and Memory Lane Heritage Village, but there are ample opportunities for detours to explore small fishing communities, public wharves, and historic seaside cemeteries along the way. Pedal along rolling hills and enjoy spectacular views of the Wild Islands scattered just beyond the shoreline.
Stop and cool off with a swim at Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park
Just 1.5 km off Clam Harbour Road, you’ll find a long white sand beach, boardwalks, winding trails, a picnic area, and public bathrooms. Clam Harbour is a fantastic family-friendly beach with warm tidal streams and calm surf. It’s the ideal spot to stretch your legs and spend some time relaxing in the sunshine.
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Continue your journey up Clam Harbour Road until you reach Memory Lane Heritage Village
Memory Lane Heritage Village is a 100% solar-powered living history museum depicting 1940s rural life. Pick up a picnic lunch at Memory Lane’s Cookhouse ($15 adult/$9 child) and sit outside at the picnic tables or the surrounding grassy meadows. Relax and keep an eye out for the many goats, chickens, and cats roaming the grounds before exploring Memory Lane’s historic buildings filled with 1940s artifacts.
After pedaling back to the Deanery, take a moment to wander and explore
Throughout the forest, you’ll find hiking trails, a stained-glass studio, a solar wood kiln, an outdoor pizza oven, and sculptures and buildings created from clay and other natural materials. The Main Hall is home to a small music studio, a full commercial kitchen, and a community gathering space. Take a seat on the dock, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the sheltered harbour and the pristine Wild Islands Coast.
Extend your visit overnight
Paddler’s Retreat Bed & Breakfast is located just 20 minutes from the Deanery Project on the shores of one of the premier sea kayaking destinations in the province.
Tip
Record any observations on your journey on iNaturalist.ca. Some common plants you might see along the way are irises, beach peas, white spruce, and juniper trees.
Alternate Site-Routes and Add-Ons
Clam Bay Road: 0.5 km to a beautiful small sandy beach, perfect for bird watching and picnics (gravel).
Little Harbour Road: head straight 2 km one way down Southwest Cove Road, towards a boat launch with a beautiful view (gravel).
Russel Road: Clam flats 0.2km down the road (gravel).
Power Drive: 0.5 km to a small trail that leads to blueberry barrens up on the cliff and a view of Ship Harbour.
Deanery to Ship Harbour Public Boat Launch: 2 km one way. Easy slight downhill ride to the boat launch with a long, slow elevation gain back to the Deanery. Continue 1 km to a beautiful cove with heritage architecture and migratory bird-watching opportunities during spring and fall.
