Centuries of history and quaint fishing villages coexist in Newfoundland and Labrador with modern design and outdoor adventure. Here is our list of the top 10 must-do experiences in this spectacular province.
Signal Hill – Crédito: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism
Canada's Signal Hill National Historic Site
What if I told you that a large part of your daily life has been influenced by what happened on top of a hill in St. John's, Newfoundland? HeSignal Hill National Historic Siteit's not your daily milestone. British and French soldiers fought for control of this strategic location during the final battle of the Seven Years' War. Then, in 1901, on Signal Hill, Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic radio signal, making communications history and starting the innovation that eventually led to the development of the cell phone you may be reading this on. Hear cannons and muskets fire as the Royal Newfoundland Regiment recreates centuries-old military exercises at Signal Hill Tattoo. Take a self-guided tour to learn about the site's military history and Marconi conquests. Hike some of the three miles of surrounding trails and enjoy spectacular views of St. John's and the ocean, and if you're lucky, you might spot a pod of whales or a giant iceberg in their wake.
cape spear lighthouse
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site of Canada
Canada's easternmost point and Newfoundland's oldest lighthouse,cape spear lighthouseis situated on a steep cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Originally built in 1836, the Cape Spear Lighthouse has been restored to its original glory. Take a self-guided tour and learn about the Cantwells. The family managed the lighthouse for 150 years and lived in the attached house. During World War II, a fort was built at Cape Spear to keep watch over German U-boats. Remains of the bunker still exist, but instead of looking for jumping submarines, you can look for jumping whales. Enjoy the end of the world.
Ostküstenweg
Ostküstenweg
Regardless of your fitness level, skill level or preferred terrain, theOstküstenwegdesigned a path for you. Fancy a peaceful walk along the water? Have it. Would you like to walk among a series of lighthouses? He can. Prefer to burn some calories climbing rocky terrain? Oh, there are many of those. From a 150-foot suspension bridge to geysers and archaeological digs, the East Coast's 545 kilometers of developed and undeveloped trail offer plenty of opportunities to find the hike you're looking for.
Gros Morne National Park
Gros Morne National Park
If Jurassic Park were to exist, it would be difficult to find a more appropriate setting.Gros Morne National Park. The forces of nature took 485 million years to transform this park into a breathtaking wonder. The photos hardly do justice to the beautiful green river valleys nestled between high cliffs. These prominent flat rocky mountains are actually the Earth's exposed crust, and the location allowed geologists to test their theory about plate tectonics. Gros Morne is a hiker's dream, full of marked and unmarked trails waiting to be explored. Forests, plains and swamps are home to a variety of rare plants and animals, so keep an eye out. Bring your camping gear; You'll probably want to stick around for a while.
Fogo Island – Credit: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism
fire insel
fire inselIt is the largest island on the long coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador. While the province is often considered a destination for outdoor adventurers and cultural explorers, Fogo Island has become a unique and prominent destination for art and architecture lovers. At the center of this change is the Fogo Island Inn, a truly exquisite oceanfront luxury hotel nestled along the rocky coastline. The hotel offers rooftop hot tubs, a library and decor based on local traditions, but in an award-winning building and setting that you simply won't find anywhere else. On Fogo Island, you can tour the island with a friendly islander, explore local artists' studios, enjoy simple and delicious Newfoundland specialties and tasty local delicacies, as well as indulge in traditional music and storytelling. .
Bonavista
Bonavista
If you imagine small fishing villages on the coast, the image in your head is probably not too far away.Bonavista. The town is steeped in history as the historic site of Cabot's Landing, where Italian explorer Giovanni Caboto discovered North America in 1497. Today Bonavista is a picturesque town with colorful houses along rocky coastlines and pebbled beaches. The area has a variety of historic sites, from old buildings and museums to classic coastal lighthouses, but the oldest thing you'll see on your visit are the 20,000-year-old icebergs that float by. Keep an eye out for whales and, of course, visit the faithful replica of Cabot's ship.
L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site – Bildnachweis: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism
L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site
L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Siteoffers the first evidence of a European presence in North America. Long before the Vikings visited Cabot, Newfoundland and Labrador, you can see the remains of one of their settlements at L'Anse aux Meadows. The excavated wooden structure and turf buildings date back to the 11th century and are similar to those found in Greenland and Iceland during that period. Immerse yourself in this history with the help of costumed guides, see 1,000-year-old artifacts and live like a Viking for a day in a truly befitting setting, surrounded by cliffs, coastlines and marshes.
Twillingate - Crédito: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism/Barrett and MacKay
Twins
Seafood and scenery are words you will find common when talking about them.Twins. This small and colorful fishing village on the islands of the same name is one of those places where the fish arrives fresh from the water straight to your plate. It's also the iceberg capital of the world and a great outdoor adventure destination with whale watching, beaches and kayaking to pass the time. Walk along rocky coastal paths and pick berries on your way to a scenic lighthouse. For visitors in July, the Fish, Fun and Folklore Festival is an unforgettable local experience with music, bonfires and fireworks.
Red Bay – Crédito: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism/Barrett and Mackay
Red Bay National Historic Site
Just a few years ago, UNESCO named themRed Bay National Historic SiteA World Heritage Site, but the title has actually been earned over the past five centuries. In the 16th century, thousands of Basque whalers hunted sea creatures in the waters of Red Bay for blubber. The whaling village remains where it was originally established and you can still explore remnants of that era, including stoves, pots and other equipment. Visit the education center to see an 8 meter long 'sloop', a boat used in whaling, and compare it to the much larger whale skeletons at the site. Take a walk on the beach or kayak through the water and keep an eye out for the vast, silent shadows moving below.
Battleport – Crédito: Benjamin Heath
combat harbor
“The Saltfish Capital of Labrador” may not sound like a particularly powerful slogan, but forcombat harborThis nickname made it the social and economic center of the region. Two centuries of history have been preserved or restored here, from fishermen's buildings to churches and houses, many of which are available for you to stay in. Stay in what used to be a merchant or policeman's home before heading into town to explore its workplaces and other historic structures. Then settle in for a fresh seafood meal and enjoy the same entertainment Battle Harbor residents have enjoyed for 100 years. You might come for the orcas, icebergs and hikes, but it's the atmosphere that keeps you coming back.