© Newfoundland and Labrador
Places to visit nearby
Parks and Nature
Cape Spear, 20 minutes
Perched on a rugged cliff, at our continent’s most easterly point, sits Cape Spear lighthouse – the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province, a national historic site, and an iconic symbol of Newfoundland and Labrador's marine history.
La Manche, 25 minutes
Part of the East Coast Trail, the hike takes you to a beautiful suspension bridge. Plus waterfalls and angling.
Salmonier Nature Park, 40 minutes
A centre for environmental education and wildlife rehabilitation, Salmonier is home to over a dozen species of wildlife and a 3-km boardwalk trail winding through woods and wetlands. Open June to October, tel. 709 229 7888.
Mistaken Point, 1 hour 45 minutes
See the oldest fossils on earth, accessible only via a tour. Visit their website to book in advance.
Cape St Mary’s, Cape Shore, 2 hours
Ecological reserve, seabird colonies and amazing sea views, can be combined with Saint Vincent’s.
Saint Vincent’s beach, 2 hours
Come see whales from the shore!
Gooseberry Cove Provincial Park, 2 hours
Sandy beach, perfect for picnics.
Cataracts Provincial Park, 1 hour
Very near the farm where we source our beef. deep canyon, lovely walk.
Trails
– see also the official website of the East Coast Trail
The Spout, part of the East Coast Trail - less than 5 minutes from our door!
Mickeleens, part of the East Coast Trail
Long pond walking trail (family trail right in Bay Bulls)
La Manche
Salmonier (family trail), 3 km of boardwalk
Skerwink, Trinity East
Shoreline heritage walking trail, Bay Roberts (family trail)
Manuels River Trails (family trail)
© Newfoundland and Labrador
Towns
Ferryland, 40 minutes
As well as the Lighthouse Picnics and Colony of Avalon, Ferryland has a regional arts centre, the Southern Shore dinner theatre, and the Southern Shore shamrock festival of traditional music, song and dance, usually held in July.
Cupids and Brigus, 50 minutes
The rich history of these early English settlements is celebrated in their architecture and people. There are archaeological sites uncovering the secrets of the past at Cupids Cove Plantation, old-style architecture which can be admired in the Hawthorne, and an annual three-day festival celebrating the humble blueberry. Take the opportunity to visit the Cupids Legacy Centre.
Dildo, 55-60 minutes
As well as having one of the most colourful names in the area, Dildo is home to a craft brewery, museums and hiking trails.
Trepassey, 1.5-2 hours
Not only was it the starting point for Amelia Earhart’s 1928 transatlantic flight, Trepassey also has a rich history that’s closely linked to the fishing industry. It’s the nearest town to Mistaken Point and the jumping off point for the annual Cape Race heritage days held every August.
Bonavista, 3 hours
Lots to see in Bonavista, such as the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, the discovery Unesco Global Geopark, the Ryan Premises National Historic Site and several museums. There are discovery trails to hike, and the annual Church Street Community Festival with live music, artists, eats and treats and an annual Mummer’s Parade.
Torbay, 40 minutes
Reach Middle Cove Beach along the hiking trails or stay in town and visit the history house and museums, with its permanent exhibits and art gallery. Torbay is another Avalon destination which hosts an annual music and arts festival, this one in July.
Bell Island, 45 minutes to the ferry terminal
A short ferry ride from Portugal Cove – St. Philips takes you to Bell Island, boasting remarkable geological makeup. Explore on foot or on one of the water-based options.
For a list of Newfoundland and Labrador historic sites, opening dates and trip planning go to Newfoundland and Labrador's official tourism website
© Gord Follett