From Goose Bay Hamlet at NYS, It took the drive about 15 minutes to the nearby hamlet with the name “Plessis”. The name itself is unique, so I asked AI.

In Old French, a plessis referred to an enclosure made of interwoven branches, a hedge, or a fence. It historically described a fortified place or a walled estate protected by such hedges (from the Latin plexitium, meaning “weaving”)

Why this name for a NY town? The name was likely chosen by James Le Ray de Chaumont, a French aristocrat and land developer who owned vast amounts of land in Jefferson County (including the town of Alexandria). He frequently named local settlements after places or people in France to honor his heritage

hmmm…. Old French language… I had a time in childhood to study French but not that much Old French.

It just passed the holiday Thanksgiving and today is Black Friday…

Even when a part of my soul is yearning for the familiar comfort of Sea-Tac and the warmth of family for Thanksgiving, there is a distinct, almost radical acceptance of the present journey.

I’m here, in the small town of Alexandria, New York, ready to explore the lesser-known beauty of Plessis. The discipline required for continuous travel is matched by the quiet excitement of seeing a new place for the first time.

Plessis might not be a household name, but it is a genuine slice of the Thousand Islands region, offering natural beauty and charming activities away from the main tourist hubs. Here are the top three natural beauties and three tourist activities that define this peaceful area.

Top 3 Natural Beauties

The environment here is a gentle reminder of the raw power and artistry of nature. Despite the melancholy of being away from home, the landscape demands appreciation.

1. Goose Bay and the St. Lawrence River

The proximity to the St. Lawrence River system is Plessis’s greatest natural asset. Goose Bay itself is a relatively sheltered inlet, perfect for observing local wildlife and enjoying the water in a calmer setting than the main river channel. It’s a place of quiet contemplation.

2. Scenic Byways and Rolling Farmlands

While not a single landmark, the drive around Plessis reveals the quintessential beauty of upstate New York. The roads meander through rolling hills and active farmlands, providing expansive views. This is where the landscape feels lived-in, a testament to human harmony with the environment. The discipline required to stick to a schedule melts away slightly when you see a vista stretch out like this.

3. Wetland Areas and Wildlife Habitats

Plessis is surrounded by various wetland areas and marshlands that serve as critical habitats for numerous bird species and other wildlife. These areas, often overlooked, offer a quiet, educational experience for the patient observer. They are a complex, self-sustaining ecosystem—a lesson in quiet efficiency.

Top 3 Tourist Attractions

Balancing nature with organized activities is key to a rewarding trip. These three attractions offer a blend of history, natural beauty, and local culture.

1. Alexandria Bay Lighthouse

This historic beacon offers scenic views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding Thousand Islands. Its vantage point makes it an ideal spot for photography and a gentle reminder of the area’s rich maritime history.

2. Nearby Thousand Islands Bridge Authority Sites

Plessis serves as an excellent gateway to the Thousand Islands. The proximity to the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority sites allows for easy access to island tours and the famous Boldt Castle, injecting a rush of excitement into the day. Planning the route requires a good deal of discipline, but the reward is worth it.

3. Local Eateries and Boat Tour Access

The waterfront areas near Plessis and in nearby Alexandria Bay are the vibrant launch points for exploring the Thousand Islands. Here you’ll find local eateries to sample regional cuisine and numerous opportunities to book boat tours directly onto the river, allowing for a healthy dose of solitude and reflection.

Things you can do here

1. Historical Sightseeing at the Lighthouse and Nearby Estates

Spend time exploring the historic Alexandria Bay Lighthouse and the grand river estates, such as Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. Understanding the local heritage—the people, the industry, the changes—is a form of radical acceptance of where you are in the world at this moment.

2. Boat Tours to Boldt Castle and Singer Castle ( It might not operating due to the snow weather)

Embark on a boat tour to fully experience the sheer scale and historical weight of the Thousand Islands. Tours to the iconic Boldt Castle and the slightly more remote Singer Castle are essential for a complete visit.

3. Eat and rest

Take a peaceful afternoon to enjoy local dining options near the river and then explore the rolling farmlands of rural Jefferson County via a scenic drive. The roads meander through rolling hills and active farmlands, providing expansive views.

Plessis, New York, is a place that offers quiet charm and a deep connection to the natural world of the St. Lawrence River. It’s a place that fosters discipline in observation and a radical acceptance of the traveler’s solitary path.

One more touch down

( I feel accomplished some because I control myself to be discipline and I manage to finish the tasks)

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