Welcome Back to the Bay: Relive "Every Summer After" in Anticipation of "One Golden Summer"

As readers eagerly anticipate Carley Fortune's return to the beloved lakes of the Ottawa Valley in her upcoming novel, One Golden Summer, what better way to prepare than by revisiting the cherished locations that brought the quintessential cottage summer life of Every Summer After to life? Fortune's evocative storytelling painted a vivid picture of this Ontario region, making its lakes and towns feel like characters in themselves. For those who fell in love with Percy and Sam's story, the Ottawa Valley isn't just a setting – it's a place brimming with nostalgic summer experiences and the promise of lakeside romance. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane, highlighting seven real-life spots in and around the Ottawa Valley, all conveniently located near Greystone on Golden Lake, that offer a tangible connection to Every Summer After, providing a delightful way to immerse yourself in Fortune's world before we turn the pages of One Golden Summer.

1. Polish Flavours and Lively Nights at the Wilno Tavern:

The local tavern, though unnamed in Every Summer After, serves as a vital backdrop to the community and the unfolding relationship between Percy and Sam. On page 34, Percy learns about Sam's Polish heritage and his family's restaurant serving pierogies, highlighting a key aspect of his identity. It's widely believed that the Wilno Tavern, just a short and scenic drive from Greystone on Golden Lake, served as the inspiration for the tavern in the book. Nestled in Wilno, Canada's oldest Polish settlement, this real-world counterpart offers a fantastic way to connect with that aspect of the story. Here, you can savour authentic Polish cuisine, including those must-try pierogies. Beyond Sam's personal history, the Wilno Tavern embodies the close-knit community spirit that permeates the entire novel. Plan your visit for a Tuesday night to experience their lively music and dancing – a true taste of the local culture that shapes the world Percy and Sam inhabit.

2. The Modern Meet-Up Spot: Madawaska Coffee:

As Percy returns to Barry's Bay in the present day, she notices the subtle signs of change, including a new cafe advertising lattes and cappuccinos (page 46). This description perfectly matches Madawaska Coffee, a popular local spot right in Barry's Bay. Imagine grabbing a coffee here, just as Percy might have, while reconnecting with the town and its memories. Madawaska Coffee offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious brews, making it a perfect stop for your own Barry's Bay exploration.

3. Indulge in a Classic Cottage Treat: Moose Tracks at Greystone on Golden Lake:

For fans of Every Summer After, you might remember Sam's fondness for Moose Tracks ice cream, a classic flavour he declares his love for on page 52. Here at Greystone on Golden Lake, we understand the simple joys of a perfect summer treat, especially after a day of lakeside adventures. That's why we're delighted to offer our staying guests complimentary ice cream on Friday nights during the summer, and you'll often find the beloved Moose Tracks among our selections. It's a quintessential cottage indulgence, the kind of flavour that evokes nostalgic summer memories and perfectly complements the relaxed atmosphere of Golden Lake. Treat yourself to a scoop and embrace this classic cottage tradition, perhaps even imagining Sam enjoying the very same flavour during his summers in the area!

4. Retro Romance Under the Stars at the Skylight Drive-In (Pembroke):

For a date night with a literary twist, head about an hour outside of Barry's Bay to the Skylight Drive-In in Pembroke. Mentioned on page 264, Sam suggests taking Percy to see a cheesy old horror movie there. Embrace the nostalgia and enjoy a movie under the stars at this classic drive-in, which is still thriving today! Conveniently located only about 40 minutes from Greystone on Golden Lake, it's an easy evening excursion to picture Percy and Sam's connection over shared cinematic experiences.

5. The Charm of Small-Town Shopping: V&S Stedman's Department Store:

Percy's description of Stedman's on page 115 as "half general store, half dollar store" with an unpredictable inventory is spot-on for the real V&S Stedman's Department Store in Barry's Bay. This local institution still thrives today, offering that wonderfully eclectic mix of goods. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time and into the pages of the book, allowing you to experience the kind of store Percy would have known and perhaps discover a treasure you weren't even looking for.

6. The Familiar First Stop: Pizza Pizza in the Valu-mart:

The journey into the world of Every Summer After begins with a simple slice. As Percy's family arrives at their lake cottage on page 10, their first order of business is takeout pizza from Pizza Pizza, conveniently located within the Valu-mart in Barry's Bay. This detail perfectly captures the small-town charm and practicality of the area. Make your own arrival memorable by grabbing a pizza from this very spot, imagining the start of countless summer adventures.

7. Percy's Present-Day Anchor: The Pinewood Inn:

In Every Summer After, Percy stays at the Pinewood Inn, a key location for her return. While visiting, Barry's Bay offers other attractions nearby: browse local crafts at Grumblin' Granny's and Gift It Gray, admire blooms at Church Street Flowers, and grab a bite at Vito's Pizzeria or The Hungry Pig Diner.

These seven locations offer a wonderful starting point for any Every Summer After fan staying at Greystone on Golden Lake and wanting to connect with the real-life places that inspired the book throughout the Ottawa Valley. As you explore this scenic region, you'll undoubtedly feel the echoes of Percy and Sam's unforgettable story.