Welcome to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada’s easternmost province known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re drawn by the stunning natural beauty, historic sites, or unique local culture, Newfoundland and Labrador offer a diverse range of experiences. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this remarkable province, including its top attractions, accommodations, and transportation options.
Top Tourist Attractions
1. Gros Morne National Park A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and coastal plains. Highlights include:
- The Table Mountain: A flat-topped mountain offering panoramic views of the surrounding park.
- Western Brook Pond: A stunning fjord accessible by boat tours that offer breathtaking views of the cliffs and waterfalls.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous trails, including the challenging Gros Morne Mountain hike and the scenic Green Gardens trail.
2. Signal Hill Located in St. John’s, Signal Hill offers a blend of history and stunning views. Highlights include:
- Historic Signal Hill: The site where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic radio signal in 1901.
- Cabot Tower: A historic tower offering panoramic views of St. John’s Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Walking Trails: Scenic trails that provide stunning views of the coastline and harbor.
3. Cape Spear The easternmost point in North America, Cape Spear is known for its historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal scenery. Highlights include:
- Cape Spear Lighthouse: The oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, offering panoramic ocean views.
- Whale Watching: A great spot for spotting whales during the summer months.
4. The Rooms Located in St. John’s, The Rooms is a cultural facility housing the provincial museum, art gallery, and archives. Highlights include:
- Art Exhibitions: Featuring works by local and international artists.
- Historical Exhibits: Offering insights into Newfoundland and Labrador’s history and culture.
5. Iceberg Alley Off the coast of Newfoundland, Iceberg Alley is famous for its seasonal icebergs drifting down from Greenland. Highlights include:
- Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to view these magnificent icebergs up close.
- Photography: A great opportunity for photographers to capture stunning images of icebergs against the coastal backdrop.
6. L’Anse aux Meadows A UNESCO World Heritage Site, L’Anse aux Meadows is an archaeological site that provides evidence of Norse exploration in North America. Highlights include:
- Viking Ruins: Explore the remains of Norse buildings and learn about Viking life through reconstructed sod huts.
- Interpretive Centre: Offers detailed exhibits and historical information about the Norse settlement.
7. Fogo Island Known for its unique architecture and rugged beauty, Fogo Island offers a range of experiences. Highlights include:
- Fogo Island Inn: A luxury hotel renowned for its contemporary design and stunning views.
- Local Art: Explore galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy picturesque drives around the island’s diverse landscapes.
Accommodations
1. The Fogo Island Inn Located on Fogo Island, this luxury inn offers stunning views, modern amenities, and a unique design inspired by local culture. Highlights include:
- Luxury Suites: Spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and ocean views.
- On-Site Dining: Features locally sourced cuisine with a focus on sustainability.
2. The Inn by Mallard Cottage A historic inn located in St. John’s, it combines classic charm with modern amenities. Highlights include:
- Comfortable Rooms: Cozy accommodations with a blend of traditional and contemporary decor.
- Dining: An on-site restaurant offering local seafood and other regional specialties.
3. Gros Morne Mountain Resort Located near Gros Morne National Park, this resort offers a range of accommodations including cabins and suites. Highlights include:
- Comfortable Lodging: Well-equipped cabins with kitchen facilities.
- Proximity to Park: Easy access to hiking trails and other park activities.
4. The Capital Hotel Situated in St. John’s, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Highlights include:
- Convenient Location: Close to local attractions and downtown.
- Amenities: Includes free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and on-site dining.
5. Hotel North Two Located in Labrador City, this hotel offers a range of accommodations and amenities. Highlights include:
- Comfortable Rooms: Well-appointed rooms with modern conveniences.
- On-Site Dining: Features a restaurant and lounge area for guests.
Transportation
1. By Car Driving is a popular way to explore Newfoundland and Labrador, offering flexibility to visit remote areas and natural attractions. Major highways connect key destinations, and rental car options are available in major cities.
2. Public Transit Public transit options are available in larger cities like St. John’s and Corner Brook. However, services may be limited in rural and remote areas. For exploring national parks and smaller towns, renting a car is often the best option.
3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Taxis are available in major cities such as St. John’s and Corner Brook. Ride-sharing services like Uber may also be available in these cities, providing convenient transportation within urban areas.
4. Ferries Newfoundland and Labrador have several ferry services that connect the island of Newfoundland with the mainland and other islands. Key routes include:
- Marine Atlantic: Provides ferry services between Newfoundland and mainland Canada.
- Fogo Island Ferry: Connects Fogo Island with the mainland.
5. Regional Flights For longer distances, regional flights are available between major cities and remote areas. Airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet offer flights to various destinations within Newfoundland and Labrador.
Newfoundland and Labrador is a province rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. From the stunning landscapes of Gros Morne National Park to the historic sites of L’Anse aux Meadows and the vibrant city life of St. John’s, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With a variety of accommodations and transportation options, planning your visit to this remarkable province is both convenient and rewarding.