Oh, Canada! A land of raw beauty and rugged landscapes, especially when you set your sights on a Newfoundland tour. The island is a jewel in the crown of Canada’s eastern seaboard, brimming with cultural richness and natural wonders. Before we dive into the must-dos and sees, let’s get a lay of the land, eh?
How to Get to Newfoundland
Getting to Newfoundland is a cinch, whether you’re coming by air, land, or sea. St. John’s International Airport welcomes flights from major Canadian cities and international destinations. If you’re up for a road trip, drive to North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and catch a ferry that’ll take you across the water to the island.
Excursions Worth Your Loonies and Toonies
Embarking on a Newfoundland tour? You’ve chosen wisely! This corner of Canada offers experiences that truly embody the spirit of the Great White North. Here’s a roundup of excursions that’ll give you more bang for your buck or should we say, more memories for your loonies and toonies.
Discover the Trails Less Traveled
For those who fancy a good trek, the trails in Newfoundland are nothing short of breathtaking. Lace-up your boots and set out on the famous East Coast Trail, which offers over 300 kilometers of coastal scenery, ecological reserves, lighthouses, and even ecological reserves. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for moose and other wildlife!
Paddle Amongst Giants
If you’re keen on getting your feet wet (well, hopefully not!), then kayaking around the island is a must. Imagine paddling in the shadow of towering icebergs or along dramatic cliffs where sea birds soar above. There’s a certain peace that comes with gliding through the Atlantic waters that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Step Back in Time
History buffs can take their curiosity on the road with a visit to L’Anse aux Meadows. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known to be the first European settlement in North America. Walking through the Norse remains is like flipping the pages of a history book, only the stories are right beneath your feet.
Go Off the Beaten Path
Lastly, for those who love a good hidden gem, why not try a unique Newfoundland tour? From berry picking in the late summer bakeapples and partridgeberries, anyone? to attending a traditional kitchen party where the music and laughter flow as freely as the Screech, these experiences are the kind you can’t put a price on.
Activities That’ll Make You Say “This is the Life!”
This island is chock-full of activities. Grab your toque and:
Birdwatching at the Break of Dawn
Rise and shine with the sun to catch a glimpse of Newfoundland’s famous puffins. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is your go-to spot for puffin watching. These colorful, clown-faced birds are not just a treat for the eyes but also for the soul. Their playful nature and awkward landings will have you chuckling in no time.
Iceberg Quest by Kayak
Feeling adventurous? Why not kayak alongside these icy behemoths in the frigid North Atlantic waters? It’s one thing to see an iceberg from afar, quite another to hear the ancient ice crackle and groan as you paddle beside it. Just make sure to keep a safe distance; these giants have been known to roll over without warning!
Hiking for Every Level of Adventure
The East Coast Trail beckons hikers of all levels with its stunning vistas and challenging climbs. Whether you’re in for a gentle jaunt or a full-day hike, the landscapes here will have you stopping in your tracks. And if you’re lucky, you might just spot a whale breaching off the coast or an eagle soaring overhead.
The Quintessential Newfoundland Fishing Experience
No visit to Newfoundland is complete without trying your hand at fishing. Whether it’s from the rugged shorelines or aboard a boat, there’s something deeply satisfying about casting a line into the chilly waters. And if you play your cards right, you might just reel in supper!
Embracing the Night Sky
After a day of exploration, lay back and gaze at the stars. Newfoundland’s remote location means little light pollution, offering a celestial spectacle that’s truly out of this world. If you’re visiting at the right time, the Northern Lights might just grace you with a performance, painting the sky with swirls of green and pink.
Sleep in Style Stay at the Barcelo Hotel
When the day is done, you’ll want to rest your head at the best digs in town. The Hotel Barcelo offers plush comfort and top-notch amenities, making it the perfect home base for your adventures. Check out the https://www.barcelo.com/en-ca/offers/black-friday/ for some sweet deals.
Must-See Newfoundland Attractions
The Natural Wonders
Signal Hill: Not just a pretty view, but a history lesson, too.
L’Anse aux Meadows: Walk in the footsteps of Vikings, long before Columbus.
The Cultural Hotspots
The Rooms: An iconic cultural space in St. John’s, showcasing art and history.
George Street: Known for its vibrant nightlife and spirited music scene.
Top Eats You Can’t Miss
Chow down on Jiggs’ Dinner: A traditional Newfoundland meal that’ll fill your boots.
Screech In Ceremony: Not exactly a restaurant, but a must-do for an authentic experience. You might just become an honorary Newfoundlander!
Practical Tips for Your Newfoundland Tour
Layer Up: Weather can change in the blink of an eye.
Embrace Island Time: Things may move a bit slower here, and that’s perfectly okay.
Get Your Chat On: Newfoundlanders are known for being friendly, so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation.
This journey to Newfoundland isn’t just a trip; it’s an immersion into a lifestyle that’s distinctively Canadian and unmistakably Newfoundland. From the first ‘How’s she goin’?’ to the last ‘Take care, b’y’, you’re in for a time that’ll stick with ya long after you’ve hung up your hat.
So pack your bags, check out the wicked deals, and come on over to where the mountains meet the sea, where the air is as crisp as a batch of homemade toutons, and the adventures are as plentiful as the catch of the day. Welcome to Newfoundland, the heart of the East Coast.
