Newfoundland Adventure: Eastbound

Welcome to Newfoundland! Kick off your adventure in Deer Lake with a welcome meeting at 10am where you'll meet your local leader and fellow traveling companions. After the meeting, we take a scenic drive to Gros Morne National Park to walk around the historic Lobster Cove Lighthouse and enjoy the view of the rolling waves and rocky beaches far below. This evening you’ll have time to settle into your hotel and perhaps take a walk around town before heading for a kitchen party dinner and a traditional “screech-in” ceremony that involves a shot of screech (rum) and kissing a cod. It’s more fun than you might think! (D)

After breakfast, start the day with stroll along the Western Brook Pond Trail and take in the view as you enjoy a picnic lunch before boarding the Western Brook Pond Boat Tour. Don’t forget your camera as you’ll want to capture the dramatic waterfalls, towering cliffs and abundant wildlife that can be found in this glacier-carved land-locked fjord. This afternoon there is time to freshen up before the group comes together again for an optional dinner. (B/L)

Enjoy the scenic drive from Rocky Harbour to Twillingate with a stop at Deer Lake along the way for those who want to buy lunch. After lunch, we’ll arrive and check into our hotel before a late afternoon boat tour where we will spot whales and seabirds. In the spring, you might get to see icebergs floating down the stretch of water known as Iceberg Alley. After the cruise, head back to your hotel and take it easy or explore Twillingate which is known as “The Iceberg Capital of the World". (B)

This morning, sit back and relax on the drive from Twillingate to Trinity. After arriving in Trinity head to the nearby Skerwink Trail for a picnic lunch and a walk along the coast. Named as one of the top trails in North America and Europe by Travel and Leisure Magazine, this easy hike offers superb photography and wildlife spotting opportunities. After the hike, head back to Trinity and explore this charming historical town at your leisure or perhaps join your travel buddies for an informal dinner at a local restaurant. (B/L)

This morning it’s time to spot puffins at Elliston’s renowned viewing site which offers one of the closest land views of puffins in North America. See if you can also spot the Puffin King, a rock formation which looks like a puffin sitting on a throne. Savor a picnic lunch before driving 20 minutes north to visit the historic Cape Bonavista Lighthouse which is one of the most photographed places in Newfoundland. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower and see the seal oil-fuelled light that was used in the 1800s. (B/L)

This morning, enjoy the scenic drive from Trinity to St John’s. After checking in at your hotel, enjoy a leader-led tour of the city. Take a drive up Signal Hill to enjoy sweeping views of St. John’s Harbour and brighten your day with a stop at St John’s famous colourful houses on ‘Jellybean Row’. The rest of the day is yours to explore St. John's on your own. Perhaps head out to the charming Quidi Vidi neighborhood and stop in at Quidi Vidi Brewery to try the local beer - a perfect farewell to Newfoundland! (B)

After breakfast, your Newfoundland adventure comes to an end. You might choose to do a little more exploring around St John’s before making your way to the airport. (B)