Newfoundland: On the Trail of Icebergs and Whales

On maps since 1519, the site of St. John’s is one of the oldest European settlements in the New World. The city was named in honor of its supposed discoverer, John Cabot, on St. John’s Day. You’ll set off to discover this very charming town with its colorful houses. It’s on Gower Street that you’ll find the prettiest Victorian houses in St. John’s. This one-kilometer-long street is a feast for the eyes with its colorful facades. In fact, their tangy shades have earned the street the nickname Jellybean Row. This picturesque tradition is said to have originated with Newfoundland fishermen who, arriving at the port, wanted to recognize their homes through the thick fog. Pick up a rental vehicle at the airport. Accommodation: Overnight at Alt Hotel St. John's (St. John's)

Start with a stroll through The Battery, St. John’s iconic neighborhood of colorful houses perched on the cliffs. Then hike up to Signal Hill and Cabot Tower for stunning views. Continue 25 minutes south to Bay Bulls for a boat tour to spot whales and puffins (early May to mid-September) (included), and, early in the season, icebergs. Visit the historic Colony of Avalon archaeological site, then stop in the picturesque fishing village of Petty Harbour before ending the day at Cape Spear Lighthouse, the easternmost point in North America. Explore the charming fishing village of Quidi Vidi. Accommodation: Overnight at Alt Hotel St. John's (St. John's).

Trinity is a charming, colorful community surrounded by water. You can venture out to admire the historic houses by visiting the village. It will take you back to the time when the first settlers of Trinity prospered. Its peaceful streets and small harbor make it a typical 19th-century setting. The Gun Hill Trail, accessible to beginner walkers, offers a fabulous view over the bay, the village, and the lighthouse in the distance. You may sometimes spot bald eagles and moose. Distance: 260 km / approx. 2h50. Accommodation: Overnight at Artisan Inn (Trinity)

Hike the spectacular Skerwink Trail, one of North America’s finest coastal walks, offering breathtaking views over Trinity Bay, dramatic cliffs, and rocky headlands—perfect for photography. Continue to Bonavista, where Giovanni Caboto is believed to have first landed in North America in 1497. Visit the iconic Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, then head to the Elliston cliffs to observe puffins at close range and, early in the season, watch for icebergs drifting offshore. End the day with a craft beer at the friendly Port Rexton Brewery. Accommodation: Overnight at Artisan Inn (Trinity).

Experience the unique charm of Fogo Island with a three-night stay at the iconic Fogo Island Inn, perched above the wild Atlantic coast. This exceptional retreat blends contemporary design, local traditions, and warm Newfoundland hospitality. Explore the island’s picturesque outport communities, including Tilting, Joe Batt’s Arm, and Fogo. Discover artists’ studios and learn about the rich fishing heritage. Enjoy breathtaking coastal hikes, dramatic ocean views, and opportunities to spot whales, seabirds, and seasonal icebergs. Savor fresh local cuisine and immerse yourself in the authentic culture. Distance: 313 km / approx. 4h35. Accommodation: Fogo Island Inn

If you want to see an iceberg, you’ll be in the right place. Twillingate declares itself to be THE iceberg capital! The best time to observe these immense blocks of floating ice is between May and June, although some icebergs may still linger in July. They drift from Greenland and slowly make their way through the sea, heading south. Let yourself be hypnotized by these surreal blocks of ice. Board a boat for an iceberg, whale, and seabird viewing cruise (included). Distance: 100 km / approx. 2h. Accommodation: Overnight at Sunshine Inn (Twillingate).

Head west across the island toward one of its most emblematic landscapes: Gros Morne National Park, with its fjords, deep glacial lakes, coastal bogs, and cliffs sculpted by the sea. It’s simply one of Canada’s most beautiful natural treasures. The Tablelands area offers a unique landscape with its orange, arid rocks, giving the impression of walking on another planet. This exceptional geological site reveals rocks from the Earth’s mantle. Easily accessible via a trail, it lets you admire these spectacular formations within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Settle in for the next two nights. Distance: 420 km / approx. 4h35. Accommodation: Overnight at The Hew & Draw (Corner Brook)

One of the must-dos is the cruise on the Western Brook Pond fjords. It offers an absolutely spectacular and iconic setting of landscapes carved by the fjord’s glaciers, with 2,000-foot waterfalls, often shrouded in mist. (Included) It’s impossible to fully enjoy the park’s beauty without exploring its many hiking trails. Accommodation: Overnight at The Hew & Draw (Corner Brook)

Head to the Deer Lake Airport for your return flight. You will return the car at the airport. That’s the end of your fabulous trip. Enjoy these final moments to make your last purchases. Safe travels back!