Known as the “Seabird Capital of North America” and home to the largest concentration of the migrating humpback whales in the world, the island of Newfoundland is a bucket list destination for those discerning travelers who enjoy “nature viewing on a grand scale.” This ruggedly beautiful island of majestic fjords and cliffs, pristine boreal forests, and diverse flora and fauna captivates all who venture here to immerse themselves in this place of old world charm, epic vistas and sophisticated charm. Estuaries of glacial rivers are populated by more than 35 million seabirds that gather here every year. When 10,000 year-old icebergs drift south along iceberg alley they meet up with a plethora of humpback whales enjoying a feeding frenzy from the fish off the Grand Banks with over 29 varieties of marine mammals. Pack your hiking boots, dress in layers, and witness this glorious rich and rewarding extraordinary Canadian destination: Newfoundland!
Degree of Difficulty –
Arrive at St. John’s Airport and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure till your welcome dinner tonight. DELTA ST. JOHN’S HOTEL.
(D)
Today, embark on a visit of the City of St. John’s, the oldest port city in North America, capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. This picturesque old port city is perched on the Atlantic Coast near Cape Spear National Historic Site, the most easterly point in North America. St. John’s is also access points to the acclaimed East Coast Trail, twisting past towering cliffs and headlands, eroded sea stacks and deep fjords. In the afternoon, transfer to Bay Bulls and board a boat for a 1.5-hour whale and Puffin watching trip in Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, North America’s largest Atlantic Puffin colony. DELTA ST. JOHN’S HOTEL.
(B,D)
Travel to Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve for insights into the ecosystem and habitat of seabird colonies. Keep watch for the world’s southernmost woodland caribou herd, known as the Avalon Caribou Herd, along the way, although their numbers have been steadily declining. “The Cape,” is one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s major seabird colonies. During the breeding season, it is home to 24,000 Northern Gannet, 20,000 Black-legged Kittiwake, 20,000 Common Murre and 2,000 Thick-billed Murre. More than 100 pairs of Razorbill, 60 pairs of Black Guillemot, plus Double-crested and Great Cormorant, and Northern Fulmar nest here. Later enjoy lunch at the Castle Landing in the fishing town of Placentia, the capital of French Newfoundland from 1660 to 1763. End your day in Clarenville. ST. JUDE HOTEL.
(B,L,D)
Transfer to Bonavista Peninsula, one of the oldest settlements in Newfoundland where John Cabot is thought to have landed in 1497, claiming this part of the New World for the king of England. Visit the Ryan Premises National Historic Site, where you will see restored merchants premises, a tribute to the role of the East Coast fishery in Canadian history. In the afternoon, explore the historic town of Trinity, an authentic fishing community with buildings dating from the 1800s. Your home is part of a collection of six distinct heritage properties. MY TRINITY EXPERIENCE.
(B,L,D)
Leave port for a morning boat tour around Cape Bonavista and Spillars Cove. This is the site of the red-and-white striped lighthouse of Cape Bonavista Provincial Historic Site, built in 1843. Visit two Atlantic Puffin colonies and look for Black Pigeons in the cliffs. During the migratory season, look for icebergs and whales. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Bonavista Peninsula along scenic roads and trails. MY TRINITY EXPERIENCE.
(B,D)
Today explore Terra Nova National Park where the landscape varies from the rugged cliffs and sheltered inlets of the coastal region to the rolling forested hills, bogs and ponds of the inland. See also remnants of sawmills and past human cultures. During the morning boat tour learn more about the fishing and natural habitat of this area. Discover the secrets of Newman Sound, a “hands on” experience. Try pulling a trap (crab, lobster and whelk) and see how fishermen have harvested the Atlantic Ocean for centuries. A plankton tow will show you how some of the smallest animals in the ocean are actually some of the biggest players. The afternoon’s walk between the mountains and the sea is great for wildlife watching – look for moose and black bears! MY TRINITY EXPERIENCE.
(B,D)
Return to St John’s and explore the city. Discover the Cape Spear National Historic Site Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador, located at the most easterly point of land in North America. The site is surrounded by spectacular scenery and wildlife such as whales, seabirds and icebergs, in season. Continue to Signal Hill National Historic Site, the reception point of the first transatlantic wireless signal by Guglielmo Marconi in 1901. Enjoy a performance of the 19th-century military drills by the Signal Hill Tattoo (in season), or take a hike from the summit along the coast and harbor. DELTA ST. JOHN’S HOTEL.
(B,L,D)
Time to return home – a fond farewell to this beautiful part of the world!
(B)
Just 12 miles off the coast of Canada, lies France’s oldest remaining overseas territory. Only about 6,000 people live in these islands, but influence is unmistakable – from the currency used (the Euro) to the cars driven (Renault, Citroen, Peugeot) to the aromas of French Bakery delights. First settled in the 17th century, the Islands bounced back and forth between France and England, but are now the last vestige of France within North America. In the summer, Saint-Pierre is a very animated little port. Musicians, artists and different festivals ensure a lively atmosphere. Discover this quaint place, mix with the warm and friendly locals, look for wild horses and abundant wildlife…migratory whales, seabirds, seals in the lagoon… a most charming way to end your adventure!
Prices vary by season and package. Please inquire by phone at (800) 627-1244 or email info@classicescapes.com for more information and a pricing estimate.
YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES:
- All hotels on this trip are chosen for their location, comfort and charm and are mostly 3 and 4 star hotels. All rooms are en suite with private facilities.
- All meals as specified.
- The tour is lead at all times by an experienced Canadian driver/guide, bilingual in English and French. In addition, local guides will join the group as specified.
- Airport transfers.
- Transportation in 15-passenger Ford minibus (from 5 to 8 travelers) or 24-passenger minibus (from 9 to 18 travelers.)
- All park and admission fees.
- All applicable hotel and lodge gratuities and taxes.
- Complimentary baggage tags and passport wallet
- Complimentary emergency evacuation insurance.
July and August in Newfoundland is warm and ofte n humid during the day – can reach the 80s, although nights by the water or at higher altitudes are cooler. June and September are more comfortabl e or fresh during the day and sometimes cold at night. The rest of the year would be cold and unpredictable and not recommended for travel. For the exten- sion, the weather is dominated by a maritime climate, that is to say, it is changeable, from moments of brilliant sunshine to t hick fog, to showers. Summer days range from cool to hot with a normal temperature of 61 degrees. In June and early July, fog is common and should be expected, whereas August and September are sunny, warm and sometimes windy. We can promise no scorching heat waves!
