This spring has felt like a rollercoaster in Albert County―and no, I’m not talking about the roads. We were teased by lovely warm, sunny days followed by snow and sub-zero temperatures well into April. It feels almost surreal to say that spring has finally arrived.
If you’re anything like me, food will be the driving force behind your Albert County explorations. Stay tuned for extended summer hours at Rocco’s Cucina for authentic Italian cuisine in Hillsborough. At Broadleaf Ranch Restaurant, brunch is served every Sunday (10am-2pm) from Mother’s Day until Thanksgiving. The restaurant will open full-time late May. Further down Route 114 is An Octopus’ Garden Café in Alma. They open in May and will serve mouthwatering dishes made as always with local ingredients. An added bonus is the opportunity to browse local art while you’re at An Octopus’ Garden Café. Admire the creations of Tim Isaac Pottery and other featured artists. This season, the Friends of Fundy/Fundy Guild will work with Fine Arts interns from Mount Allison University to turn the second floor of the café into a mini-gallery and studio space for local artists.
Glass Roots Inc. opened a gallery at 406 Coverdale Rd. in Riverview (open Tues.-Sun. but daily as of June). The glassblowing studio (1195 Rte 915, New Horton) is open for demos and workshops by appointment year-round, and open daily July and August.
If you have family or friends looking for a place to stay, there are many options. Falcon Ridge Inn B&B in Alma continues to be open daily. Fundy Highlands Motel & Chalets will open their chalets as May 1st. The motel opens on the Victoria Day weekend.
The bottom line is simple―Albert County is an exceptional place to eat, sleep and explore in every season, but there is just something special about spring. Ride the high of longer days and warmer temperatures, support local businesses, and remember how lucky we are to live in Albert County.