Western Newfoundland offers breathtaking landscapes with majestic mountains, ancient glaciers, and abundant wildlife like moose and caribou, showcasing its natural beauty. This region in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador boasts a rich history influenced by Indigenous, English, Irish, and French cultures, reflected in its charm and welcoming residents.
Covering 750 kilometers, this uncrowded paradise provides unique experiences such as walking on the Earth’s mantle and admiring glacier-carved fjords. Residents quip about the region’s ever-changing weather, joking that if you don’t like it, just wait five minutes for a different scene.
Starting our journey at the family-run Shallow Bay Motel & Cabins in Cow Head, we enjoyed cozy rooms with serene water views and amenities like an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Moving along the coast to Norris Point, the Sugar Hill Inn impressed with its spacious rooms, wooden interiors, and scenic hillside setting, offering a relaxing retreat.
A must-visit spot is Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord in Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning location features towering cliffs, misty waterfalls, and a pristine freshwater lake, offering a memorable boat tour with remarkable views and interesting geological formations like the Tin Man rock face.
Exploring the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park allowed us to walk on the Earth’s mantle, experiencing a unique landscape akin to Mars. Additionally, we immersed ourselves in the local culture with an Indigenous Tour by Gros Morne Adventures, paddling across serene waters, hiking through woodlands, and learning about traditional practices like making Lu’skinikin bread and starting fires with Stone Age tools.
Sampling the thriving food scene in Newfoundland, we indulged in Indigenous-inspired dishes with European influences, focusing on fresh seafood. From moose soup at the Buoy & Arrow Restaurant to fine dining delights at Chanterelles and The Black Spruce, each culinary experience was a treat for the taste buds.
For a memorable night, we attended the Writers at Woody Point Literary Festival, enjoying live music and performances. This trip revealed the beauty, culture, and culinary delights of Newfoundland, making it a destination worth exploring.
Room rates at Shallow Bay Motel start from £87, while Sugar Hill Inn offers accommodations starting from £134 per night for two sharing. Air Canada provides return flights from London Heathrow to Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador, from £587 per person. Visit newfoundlandlabrador.com and atlanticcanadaholiday.co.uk for more information on planning your Newfoundland adventure.
