Western Newfoundland is a stunning region with majestic mountains, ancient glaciers, and vast landscapes teeming with wildlife like moose and caribou. Its rich history blends Indigenous, English, Irish, and French influences, creating a place of pure beauty and charm cherished by its residents.
The area, part of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, offers a warm welcome to visitors, emphasizing the significance of the people you meet during your stay. Spanning 750 kilometers, this uncrowded paradise is a rare gem where you can walk on the Earth’s mantle and admire glacier-carved fjords. The locals humorously note the region’s tendency to experience four seasons in a day, advising visitors to be patient with the ever-changing weather.
Our journey began at the family-operated Shallow Bay Motel & Cabins in Cow Head, a quaint fishing village. The cozy room provided serene waterfront views, and the inviting wooden porch was perfect for enjoying a morning coffee. Guests could also unwind in the outdoor heated pool or hot tub overlooking the sea.
Moving along the coast to Norris Point, we stayed at the picturesque Sugar Hill Inn nestled on a hillside. The spacious rooms featured charming wooden interiors and a wrap-around porch with Adirondack chairs for relaxation.
A must-visit in Newfoundland is the Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord shaped by glaciers over 10,000 years ago, located in Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fjord boasts towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and a pristine freshwater lake. A boat tour allowed us to marvel at this natural wonder and spot the famous Tin Man rock formation.
Gros Morne National Park also houses the Tablelands, a unique location where visitors can walk on the Earth’s mantle, offering a surreal experience akin to exploring Mars. The park’s diverse landscape captivated us during a scenic 4km trail hike through striking valleys.
Immersing ourselves in local culture, we embarked on an Indigenous Tour with Gros Morne Adventures in Norris Point. The tour provided insights into the region’s early inhabitants as we canoed across serene waters, hiked through woodlands, and engaged in traditional activities like making Lu’skinikin (bannock) and starting a campfire.
Exploring more of the area, we visited Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse and sampled local honey at the Cormack Bee Company. The highlight was attending the Writers at Woody Point Literary Festival, featuring live music performances by renowned artists.
Newfoundland’s vibrant food scene impressed us with a fusion of Indigenous and European influences, focusing on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Dining experiences at various establishments like the Buoy & Arrow Restaurant, Shallow Bay Family Restaurant, Chanterelles at Sugar Hill Inn, and The Black Spruce at Neddies Harbour Inn offered exquisite dishes and memorable flavors.
Accommodation options at Shallow Bay Motel start at £87 per night, while Sugar Hill Inn offers rooms from £134 based on double occupancy. Air Canada provides return flights from London Heathrow to Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador, starting at £587 per person. For more information, visit newfoundlandlabrador.com and atlanticcanadaholiday.co.uk.