Discover Newfoundland and Labrador
Among the myriad of stunning natural features in Newfoundland and Labrador, Red Indian Lake emerges as a standout. This expansive and serene body of water, located in the heart of Newfoundland, is steeped in rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. The lake’s significance is also historical, having been a central hub for the Beothuk people, the indigenous inhabitants of Newfoundland. Today, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering exceptional opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The surrounding wilderness trails beckon hikers and nature lovers to explore the diverse wildlife and flora. In the evenings, the lake transforms into a mirror, reflecting the spectacular display of the Northern Lights.
Interesting Facts about Newfoundland and Labrador
01
Viking Settlement
L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland is the site of the only known Viking settlement in North America outside of Greenland, dating back to around 1,000 AD.
02
Historical Communications
In 1901, Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in St. John’s, Newfoundland, marking a pivotal moment in the history of communication.
03
Iceberg Alley
The province is one of the best places in the world to view icebergs, which drift south from the Arctic along the coast, known as Iceberg Alley, in the spring and early summer.
Must See Attractions
Gros Morne National Park Of Canada
Nature & Parks
This UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors with its stunning fjords, towering cliffs, and unique geological formations, including the otherworldly Tablelands.
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
Historical Landmark
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site stands as a historic beacon overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Terra Nova National Park
Nature & Parks
The park offers a rich mosaic of boreal forests, wetlands, and coastlines, providing a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Where to Sleep
Lakes to Explore
1. Notre Dame Bay
Comprising a network of interconnected lakes, Notre Dame Bay is a scenic region celebrated for its charming coastal villages and vibrant marine life.
2. Glovers Harbour Pond
Tucked away in Notre Dame Bay, Glovers Harbour Pond is a hidden gem surrounded by rolling hills. It provides a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude.
3. Red Indian Lake
Rich in history and natural beauty, Red Indian Lake provides a serene escape, surrounded by lush forests and offering excellent fishing opportunities.
4. Grand Lake
Grand Lake near Deer Lake is a recreational haven surrounded by rolling hills and forests, attracting boaters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts.
5. Deer Lake
Deer Lake is a picturesque lake and a vibrant community with a scenic waterfront, offering opportunities for water activities and cultural exploration.
6. Lomond River Ponds
The interconnected Lomond River Ponds offer a unique blend of wilderness and coastal beauty, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
7. Trout River Pond
Trout River Pond offers tranquility amid ancient cliffs and dense forests, providing a picturesque setting for kayaking and hiking adventures.
8. Western Brook Pond
Western Brook Pond is a glacial fjord showcasing dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine waters, offering boat tours for a unique perspective.
Annual Events and Festivals
TBA 2025
Iceberg Festival
This festival occurs in the picturesque communities along the Great Northern Peninsula and the Strait of Belle Isle. These areas are prime locations for iceberg viewing, where these colossal, shimmering blue-white giants journey down from the Arctic, creating a spectacular display against Newfoundland’s rugged coastal landscapes. The festival is a blend of natural wonder, cultural heritage, and community spirit, offering a variety of activities, including boat tours for up-close encounters with the icebergs, traditional music and dance, local cuisine, and educational talks that delve into the science and history of icebergs. It also highlights the rich Viking history of the area, particularly near L’Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
TBA 2025
George Street Festival
The George Street Festival, held annually in the heart of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, transforms the famous George Street into a pulsating hub of music and celebration. Spanning a week of festivities, this event has become one of the province’s most anticipated gatherings. George Street, known for having the highest concentration of bars and pubs per square foot in North America, comes alive with an eclectic mix of live music, ranging from local folk and traditional tunes to popular rock and country acts. The festival draws local residents and tourists, who flock to the street to revel in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy the diverse range of performances, and experience the legendary nightlife of St. John’s.
August 2025
St. John’s Regatta
The Royal St. John’s Regatta, deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Newfoundland and Labrador, stands as North America’s oldest annual sporting event. This historic regatta takes place on the first Wednesday of August each year, transforming Quidi Vidi Lake in St. John’s into a vibrant arena of rowing competitions, carnival festivities, and lively camaraderie. Dating back to 1818, the regatta has become a cherished tradition, attracting locals and visitors alike. The lake’s shores become a bustling spectacle of families enjoying picnic spreads, live music performances, and the thrilling races that characterize this day-long celebration.
Top Hiking Trails
Skerwink Trail
Skerwink Trail, Trinity East, Port Rexton, Newfoundland and Labrador
The Skerwink Trail, located near the charming town of Trinity in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a coastal gem that winds through some of the most breathtaking scenery on the island. This 5.1-kilometer loop trail takes hikers along cliffs and through forests, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail meanders along the dramatic coastline, providing glimpses of sea stacks, caves, and pristine coastal meadows. The Skerwink Trail is renowned for its natural beauty and accessibility, making it suitable for a range of hiking enthusiasts.
Chance Cove Coastal Trail
Chance Cove Coastal Hiking Trail, Main Rd, Chance Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador
The Chance Cove Coastal Trail offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and rugged terrain. This scenic trail, approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, showcases the untamed splendor of the region as it winds along the coastline, treating hikers to views of the Atlantic Ocean. The journey unfolds through a diverse landscape featuring cliffs, coves, and beaches.
North Head Trail Loop
North Head Trail, 18 N Head Trail, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
The North Head Trail Loop, located in the historic city of St. John’s, is a captivating urban hiking experience that combines history with breathtaking coastal views. This approximately 3.4-kilometer loop starts near the iconic Signal Hill and takes hikers on a journey along the rugged cliffs of the North Atlantic coastline. As you ascend the trail, the historic Cabot Tower comes into view, perched atop Signal Hill and offering panoramic vistas of the city and the vast ocean beyond. The trail then winds along the cliffs, providing glimpses of the dramatic coastline, sea stacks, and the iconic narrows leading into St. John’s Harbor.
Best Golf Courses
Humber Valley Resort Golf Club
1 Club House Hill, Little Rapids, Newfoundland and Labrador
Humber Valley Resort Golf Club is a premier destination offering challenging play and stunning natural beauty. This 18-hole championship golf course stretches over a diverse landscape, encompassing forest, rolling hills, and river valley terrain. The course is known for its impeccable conditioning, strategic layout, and, particularly, its signature hole, the par-3 10th, which offers a breathtaking tee shot over the Humber River. As players navigate the course, they are treated to spectacular views, including the Appalachian Mountain range.
Terra Nova Golf Resort & Golf Community
5-9 Muddy Brook Rd, Port Blandford, Newfoundland and Labrador
Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Terra Nova National Park in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Terra Nova Golf Resort & Golf Community is a golf enthusiast’s haven that seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of its surroundings into an exceptional golfing experience. Designed by golf architect Graham Cooke, the 18-hole championship golf course is a masterpiece that meanders through forests, around ponds and offers views of Clode Sound.
The Willows at Holyrood
Holyrood Access, Holyrood, Newfoundland and Labrador
This 18-hole course, designed by Canadian golf course architect Robbie Robinson, combines challenging play with the serenity of its natural setting. As golfers navigate the meticulously manicured fairways and greens, they are treated to stunning vistas of Conception Bay and the rolling hills that characterize the region. The course’s signature holes, featuring elevated tees and strategically placed hazards, add to the allure of The Willows.
Water Sports
Icebergs
ICEBERG TOURS
Iceberg viewing tours are a must-do activity when visiting Newfoundland. Every spring and early summer, massive icebergs drift down from Greenland and the Canadian Arctic, creating a spectacular sight. These towering ice giants can be seen from the shore, but the best way to appreciate their grandeur is by taking a boat tour. Several operators offer guided iceberg viewing tours, providing insights into the formation and history of these natural wonders. The tours often include seeing whales and seabirds, making the experience even more memorable.
Stan Cook Sea Kayak Adventures
Kayaking & Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing in Newfoundland and Labrador provide an immersive and scenic way to explore the province’s diverse waterways, from tranquil lakes to rugged coastal shores. One notable company that facilitates these adventures is Stan Cook Sea Kayak Adventures, based in Gros Morne National Park. With its headquarters in Norris Point, this company offers a range of kayak and canoe rentals and guided tours for paddlers of all skill levels. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Gros Morne, you might spot marine life, such as dolphins, seabirds, and even icebergs, depending on the season.
Ocean Quest Adventures
Scuba & Snorkeling
Scuba diving and snorkeling in Newfoundland and Labrador open up a world of underwater exploration unlike anywhere else, with crystal-clear waters and a diverse array of marine life. Ocean Quest Adventures, a renowned company based in Conception Bay South, offers an exceptional range of scuba and snorkeling experiences suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. Newfoundland’s waters are famous for their excellent visibility and unique dive sites, including historic shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs. Divers and snorkelers can expect to encounter a rich marine ecosystem, featuring colorful anemones, various fish species, and even majestic whales in certain seasons.
Resorts to Explore
Marble Inn Resort
Recreational
51 Dogwood Dr, Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador A2H 2N2
Coffee Cove Seaside Retreat
Waterfront, Couples
1 Coffee Cove Rd, Little Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador A0J 1J0
Cliffs Edge Retreat
Waterfront, Recreational
9 Celtic Rendezvous, Bauline East, Newfoundland and Labrador A0A 4A0
Tips on Vacationing in Newfoundland and Labrador
Be Prepared for Distances
Distances can be deceivingly long, and driving from one end of the island to the other or across Labrador can take much longer than anticipated. Plan your route and time accordingly.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Seafood is a must, especially fresh cod, lobster, and scallops. Indulge in local dishes like Jiggs’ dinner, croutons, and bakeapples (cloudberries).
Check Local Calendars
Festivals and events, particularly during the summer months, can be a highlight of your trip. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, they offer a glimpse into the region’s soul.
Frequently Asked Questions about Newfoundland and Labrador
Pack layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and insect repellent. The weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for various conditions, especially if you plan on exploring outdoor attractions.
To find the perfect cabin rental in Avalon, consider using online platforms such as Lake, Airbnb or Vrbo. Keep an eye out for keywords like “cabin” or “chalet” in the listing titles and descriptions, as this will help narrow your search.
If a hot tub is a must-have feature for your vacation rental, search your preferred booking site to include hot tub amenities. Lake, TripAdvisor, Airbnb, or Vrbo usually have a specified filter for such amenities, making it easier to find the perfect cabin with a hot tub.
Finding vacation rentals in Central NL can be as simple as entering the desired location on popular rental websites like Lake. Additionally, you can explore options in specific towns within the region, like Springdale or Deer Lake, using filters to tailor your search to your preferences.