Category: Bonavista Peninsula Activities

May 2022 Trinity Visitor Guide

Pack Ice in front of Artisan Inn
Marieke Gow Photography

 This should be used as a general guide, but always check current operating info with a business  prior to going. If you are a business that would like to be listed, or your status has changed since we last checked, please email info@trinityvacations.com.

THE ARRIVAL OF ICEBERGS

Trinity and Bonavista Bay are part of Iceberg Alley, a stretch of ocean that icebergs travel along throughout Spring and Early Summer. the Bonavista Peninsula often sees the arrival of icebergs early in the season with many being viewable from land, while others are better observed by one of the various boat tour operators in our area.  The largest concentration of icebergs typically arrives between May and June. No two iceberg seasons are the same.  Take comfort in knowing that if you come during a poor iceberg year you will still have plenty to do on the Bonavista Peninsula. The first icebergs arrived in our region mid April 2022!

NEWFOUNDLAND ICEBERG REPORTS

Newfoundland Iceberg Reports is a crowd sourced Facebook page where Newfoundlanders and visitors can contribute iceberg reports and photos instantly.

Nature Focused Boat Tours

There are 2 boat tour operators in Trinity.  Their ability to go out during the month of May is based on ice, weather and a minimum number of people, although many are willing to do a full tour if 2 or 3 people are willing to pay the equivalent of 4 passengers, which is often their minimum.   Check out Sea of Whales Adventures and Trinity Eco Tours

Dine in Trinity

Our TWINE LOFT DINING ROOM  is recommended by Where to Eat in Canada and Lonely Planet and opens May 5th.  The restaurant is licensed to serve the public so one does not need to be a guest of the inn to make a reservation, however, during the first two weeks of May, if we don’t have guests of the Artisan Inn & Vacation Homes, we will only operate if a minimum of 6 people in general book (this could be from a combination of different reservations like a table of 2 and 4).   If you are the first person to request a reservation for a particular evening, we will contact you to confirm we are operating once others request a reservation on that night. The Twine Loft serves one evening sitting at 7pm during the month of May and is open for Breakfast from 8am-10am (by reservation). We do not operate for breakfast on mornings that we do not have guests at the inn.

Other places to eat in Trinity during the Month of May

Dock Marina restaurant typically open for the season on Mother’s Day weekend.  Please note they may not be operating every day of the week at the start of May.

Places To Eat On the Bonavista Peninsula

Two Whales Coffee Shop: Typically opens end of April for select days of the week

The Galley Restaurant: Will be operating in May, operating schedule to be determined.

Fisher’s Loft Dining: Opening some time in May by reservation

Fireside Dining Located in Seaport Inn Port Union: Open in May for daily service.

Bonavista Social Club: please be advised that Bonavista Social Club has decided to remain closed for the 2022 season while the owner and head chef Katie Hayes is out of the province.

If you are en route to Trinity we suggest stops at Bare Mountain Coffee House in Clarenville & Newfoundland Cider Company in Milton

Appreciate Craft Beer at Port Rexton Brewery

The Port Rexton Brewery is one of Newfoundland’s finest, award-winning microbreweries, located only a 10-minute drive from the Artisan Inn.  Please be advised that Taxi services are not available in the Trinity Bight area. You can also go to the brewery for Growler fill-ups and cans if you prefer to drink your craft beer back at your accommodations.  Please check their website and social media for the operating dates and times in May.  Oh My Cheese’s operates a grilled cheese service at the Brewery.

Shopping in Trinity

Mirabella Artisan Studio & Shop: Locally hand made jewelry this shop intends to open early May. Please visit their website for updates on hours and operating dates.

Aunt Sarah’s Chocolate (Also serving Sweet Rock Ice Cream): Located in Trinity. Typically opens end Victoria Day Weekend near end of May.  Online ordering is often possible before their season.

Art’s Gallery: Located in the same building as the Dock Marina, this large store carries Newfoundland books, jewelry, quilts, apparel, and other crafts. Typically opens first week of May.

Craft Shop at Lester Garland Building: Should be opening around the Victoria Day Weekend.

Green Family Forge: Forge will likely open to the public around Victoria Day Weekend. The items crafter by the blacksmith can be purchased at the shop.

Hike Discovery Self Guided Local Hikes

The shoulder season means you will be sharing the trails with fewer travellers.  Guests can spend multiple days hiking various trails ranging from 2 to 50 minutes away from the Artisan Inn.  For more details on the below trails, visit our HIKING SECTION.  

Skerwink Trail – Moderate to Difficult
5.3km Loop
Approximately 2 hours

Gun Hill Trail – Easy to Moderate
2km Lower Loop Trail, 1km Upper Trail
Approximately 1-2 hours for both

Fox Island Trail – Moderate
5.5km Loop
Approximately 2 hours

Murphy’s Cove Trail – Moderate
7.7km Loop
Approximately 3 hours

Cape Shore Trail – Easy
3.5 km One-way
Approximately 1 hour One-way

Lighthouse Trail – Easy
3.5km outside loop, 1.7km inside loop
Approximately 1.5 hours Outside Loop, 45 minutes Inside Loop

Klondike Trail – Easy
3.0 km One-way
Approximately 1 hour One-way

DETAILED INFORMATION ON HIKING TRAILS

Places to Visit During Day Trips from Trinity

Detailed driving directions to these sites are outlined in the multi-day itinerary you will be provided upon check-in.

Dungeon Provincial Park – Discovery Unesco Geopark Site

Spillar’s Cove Sea Stack – Discovery Unesco Geopark Site

Tickle Cove Sea Arch – Discovery Unesco Geopark Site

Fort Point Lighthouse and Beach

Horsechops – English Harbour

Elliston Root Cellars Discovery Unesco Geopark Site

Sealer’s Memorial Statue in Elliston

John Cabot Statue in Bonavista

Bonavista Lighthouse

Port Union Fossils Discovery Unesco Geopark Site

Bonavista Biennale Exhibit in King’s Cove: Upside Down Trees

For information about the geological attractions listed above, visit our page

GEOLOGICAL WONDERS

Take in the Architecture of Trinity

Walk the white-picket-fence lined streets of Trinity and take in the unique heritage architecture. Some homes in Trinity date back to the early 1800s.  The town was used as the backdrop for the film Maudie which won Best Picture at the Canada Screen Awards in 2018. There are plenty of rocky beaches, perfect for finding sea glass and interesting shells.

Visit our PHOTO TOUR OF TRINITY page to find out what you will see during a stroll around town.

Learn More about MOVIE SETS AND LOCATIONS in Trinity Bight

Relax At The Artisan Inn and take time to do nothing!

The Bonavista Peninsula is a stunning destination.  One of the most common complaints we hear from guests at check out is that they forgot to schedule the time to do nothing.   Even on days of cooler, or even wild weather, curling up with a book in one of our properties can do wonders for the soul.  We provide copies of The Grand Seduction, Maudie, Random Passage and The Shipping News to guests to watch in their rooms or vacation homes, as well as directions to many locations where these films were shot. If you love history and are disappointed to be missing some of the historic sites and museums, make history part of your experience by renting one of our homes or rooms, built in the 1800s (Gover House, Campbell House, Nathaniel House, Admiral’s Lookout).

 

The Arrival of Puffins in Elliston

Puffins typically arrive in the region mid May and are best view in Elliston.

Atlantic Puffins in Newfoundland
Puffins by Paul Dolk: To purchase this print visit Paul Dolk’s Website

 

 

September and October Guide

A hand full of blueberries, Sara Monika Photography

Why visit Newfoundland during the Fall?

We’ll be honest, it’s unlikely you’ll spot an iceberg on a fall visit and humpback whales may not be as numerous should you decide to visit Newfoundland during the months of September and October.  These iconic giants certainly make Newfoundland special, but they are not what makes Newfoundland unique.  That would be the Newfoundlanders themselves and the dramatic landscape we call home. We can guarantee that Newfoundland charm, hospitality and countless accents are always in full force no matter what time of the year you visit.  Fall offers an added bonus of berries, ripe for the picking, stunning sunsets and world-class trails shared with fewer people.

Use this guide to better plan your Fall trip to Trinity, Newfoundland and the Bonavista Peninsula.

Photo Credit: Sarah Monika Photography

ACTIVITIES IN SEPTEMBER

With the exception of the two activities in the below section, the majority of activities, shops and restaurants continue operating as they did in July and August.

We suggest you use our EXPLORE TRINITY and the other sections of BONAVISTA PENINSULA ACTIVITIES to plan your trip for this time.

Closures after Labour Day Weekend

Rising Tide Theatre finishes both Dinner Theatre and the Trinity Pageant performances on Labour Day Weekend, however, continues with evening performances through the first half of September.

FALL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

BonRexton Granfondo (cycling event) – September 10th 2022

The BonRexton Granfondo is a celebration of Newfoundland and Labrador’s unique culture, cuisine and topography.

With roads hugging rugged coastlines throughout one hundred and thirty beautiful kilometres, BonRexton Granfondo riders will roll through small communities which boast hundreds of years steeped in seafaring history as well as modern cultural innovations. Riders pass towns revitalized by breweries, coffee shops, artist studios and world-class tourism amenities.

This ride is fully supported, with a roveing mechanic and multiple first aid patrolling the course throughout the day. Riders will finish off at the school for a reception, followed later on by drinks at the Brewery.

Visit the BonRexton GrandFondo website for details on the race and registration.

 

Trinity’s Fort to Forge 10km Run – September 24th 2022

If you travel to race, September is the perfect time to visit Trinity, which hosts a 10km & 5km coastal run (or walk for those who prefer) from the Fort Point Lighthouse to the Green Family Forge.  The money raised from registration is usually split between two organizations.  In  2022 YAC (Young Adults with Cancer) and the Trinity Fire Department will be the recipients of the funds raised.  Register for Fort to Forge.

Roots Rants and Roars Food Festival September 16th & 17 2022

This 2-day culinary festival takes place in Elliston and has been ranked amongst the top food festivals in Canada, so book your tickets and accommodations early. The festival is comprised of 3 events.

Cod Wars

This event, hosted on Friday evening, challenges Newfoundland Chefs to create an inspiring dish from the Newfoundland staple of Cod Fish.  Festival-goers vote on their favourite dish, which they sample while being entertained by some of Newfoundland’s best bands.

The Food Hike

Some of Canada’s Top Chefs fly to Newfoundland to participate in this daytime event.  Participants walk along sandy beaches, rocky cliffs and quaint root cellars, stopping every half kilometre to be served Newfoundland inspired dishes by one of these top chefs.   Each chef is usually accompanied by a Newfoundland musician to provide a soundtrack to the moment.

The Feast

Canadian and Newfoundland Chefs team up to create a multi-course meal (usually 7 courses or so) on the final night of the festival.  Harvest style tables and plating bring festival-goers, both friends and strangers, together to share in a special evening.

Visit their website to purchase passes

TRINITY FALL FESTIVAL

October 1st & 2nd 2022

The Trinity Fall Festival offer great deals at the local shops as they prepare to close for the season later in October.  Other planned events for the festival TBA.
Details will be posted on www.trinityanchor.ca

Aunt Sarah's Choloate, lit up for Trinity's Fall Festival
Kathy Stacey Photography

 

Ales For Trails: Skerwink Trail Run Event – October 22nd 2022

Ales for Trails Participants
Photo credit: Hike Discovery

This event is organized by Hike Discovery and proceeds go towards our area’s trails.  Participants can choose between running the Skerwink Trail or walking the Fox Island Trail. Beer at the Port Rexton Brewery, trail swag, lunch, dinner and an evening party are included with participant registration.  This event is often sold out with a waiting list of over 100 people.  For information regarding the event, follow the Hike Discovery Facebook Page or visit their website at www.hikediscovery.com

GENERAL OCTOBER ACTIVITIES & INFORMATION

Take advantage of shoulder season rates

Last week of October at the Artisan Inn
Marieke Gow Photography

Stay and Dine packages for rooms and vacation homes are available for the months of September and October. Visit our book now section and enter desired dates and number of guests for accurate pricing. Shoulder season rates take effect at the Artisan Inn beginning October 1st.

A number of activities and businesses begin to shut down for the season between the first weekend of October and Canadian Thanksgiving(The 2nd Sunday of October).  Despite this, there is still plenty to do during a visit to the area.  Guests booked at the Artisan Inn during this time will receive a multi-day itinerary with detailed driving directions, featuring places open for dining, activities still ongoing, locations of hiking trails and scenic spots to visit.

There are also businesses in Trinity that only run during the early part of October.  Learn about these businesses and activities at the bottom of this page.

Check out what travel Blogger Candice Walsh has to say about staying at the Artisan Inn in late October
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT TRINITY IN THE FALL

HIKE DISCOVERY SELF-GUIDED HIKES – OPEN THROUGHOUT OCTOBER

Two hikers walk the Skerwink Trail
Sara Monika Photography

The shoulder season means you will be sharing the trails with fewer fellow travellers.  For more details on the below trails visit our Hiking section.

Skerwink Trail – Moderate to Difficult
5.3km Loop
Approximately 2 hours

Gun Hill Trail – Easy to Moderate
2km Lower Trail loop, 1km Upper Trail
Approximately 1-2 hours for both

Fox Island Trail – Moderate
5.5km
Approximately 2 hours

Murphy’s Cove Trail – Moderate
7.7km Loop
Approximately 3 hours

Cape Shore Trail – Easy
3.5km one-way
Approximately 1.5 hours one-way

Lighthouse Trail – Easy
3.5km outside loop
1.7km inside loop
Approximately 1.5 hours Outside Loop, 45 minutes Inside Loop

Klondike Trail – Easy
3.0 km 1 way
Approximately 1 hour – 1 way

Visit HIKING AND WALKING ON THE BONAVISTA PENINSULA

 

GUIDED TOURS

Wildlife during September and October Sea of Whales Adventures

Orcas in Trinity Bay, Paul Dolk Photography
To purchase this print visit Paul Dolk’s Website

By late August the puffins will have departed from their colonies to resume living on the ocean.  Humpback whales typically finish feeding on capelin by late August, but a scattered few still hang on. Icebergs are more typical during the Spring months and have rarely been spotted during the fall. If seeing one of these 3 things is essential to your trip to Newfoundland this may not be the time for you to visit.  Boat Tour operators do continue throughout the Fall, with each operation ending on a different date.  Visit our page on Whale Watching for contact information. If you are interested in various types of wildlife, the Bonavista Peninsula still has lots to offer. In addition to wildlife, the stunning geology of the Bonavista Peninsula is worth a trip out. While we can never guarantee day-to-day sightings, these logs from Sea of Whales Adventures’ Fall trips should provide an idea of what nature has to offer. 

 

Sperm Whale, Newfoundland, Paul Dolk Photography
To Purchase this print visit Paul Dolk’s Website

 

 

 

A Super Superpod
Posted on September 25, 2017

A super pod of 1000+ white sided dolphins today with blue fin tuna, bald eagles, arctic terns, gannets, and northern fulmars.

A Lovely Day
Posted on October 9, 2017

A lovely day on the water with 2 minke whales, double crested cormorants, red necked phalaropes, and bald eagles.

Dolphins Great and Small
Posted on October 10, 2017

What a day out there with 12 Orcas (the largest dolphins), 40-50 white beaked dolphins (some of the smallest dolphins), 1 sei whale, gannets, and murres.

Wonderful Warm
Posted on October 11, 2017

A wonderful warm day out there with a minke whale, gannets, murres, and bald eagles.

 

Bonavista Adventure Tours

Bonavista Adventure Tours will be offering most of their tours until the end of October. Their boat tour and beach boil come to an end in late September, but they are offering a forage and boil up until the end of October.

Colourful yellow bakeapples are browned in a frying pan on a rocky beach in Newfoundland

GEOLOGICAL HIGHLIGHTS AND POINTS OF INTEREST

Dungeon Sea Cave
Marieke Gow Photography

Detailed driving directions to these sites are provided in our multi-day itinerary

Dungeon Provincial Park

Spillar’s Cove Sea Stack

Tickle Cove Sea Arch

Fort Point Lighthouse and Beach

Horsechops – English Harbour

Elliston Root Cellars

Sealer’s Memorial Statue in Elliston

John Cabot Statue in Bonavista

Bonavista Lighthouse

Port Union Fossils

Bonavita Biennale Exhibit in King’s Cove: Upside Down Trees

DINE AT THE TWINE LOFT RESTAURANT

Dine by candlelight in a restored shed, once used to repair fishermen’s nets. Wrap up in a blanket on the waterside deck for a pre-dinner drink or watch the sunset from the upstairs loft.  The Twine Loft is recommended by Where to Eat in Canada and Lonely Planet.

The restaurant is licensed to serve the public so one does not need to be a guest of the inn to make a reservation, however, we will only operate on nights when we have guests of the Artisan Inn booked for dining or there are a minimum of 6 people booked from outside the inn.   If you would like to dine with us around this time, whether you are a guest of the inn or not, please contact us as soon as possible to make your reservations to help us know which days we should encourage others to book.  Stay and Dine Packages are available for the month of October.

Throughout the Peninsula, a handful of dining establishments stay open for the entire month of October, including: Two Whales Coffee Shop (5 days a week) Fisher’s Loft, Seaport Inn’s Fireside Dining Room, The Galley Restaurant and Harbour Quarters.  Please check with each individual establishment for fall hours.

PORT REXTON BREWERY

Port Rexton Brewery was Newfoundland’s first rural microbrewery, located only a 10-minute drive from the Artisan Inn.  Please check with the brewery for their schedule.

Port Rexton Brewery
Marieke Gow Photography

ADMIRE THE ARCHITECTURE & CHARM OF TRINITY

Walk the white-picket-fence lined streets of Trinity during a time of year with fantastic light and take in the stunning architecture of clapboard saltbox houses.  If you are interested in seeing some of the historic sites after they have been closed for the season, let us know and we can do our best to arrange for a private tour of the municipal sites.  Even late into October, you will find the doors of the Green Family Forge open on weekdays when the two trained blacksmiths are preparing orders for the Christmas season.

THe town of Trinity taken the last week of October
Marieke Gow Photography

 

Take a PHOTO TOUR OF TRINITY for more pictures.

VISIT TRINITY’S FORGE

Operating Monday – Friday this is the only historic site that remains operating for the entire month of October.  At this time the certified blacksmiths are creating products for Christmas craft fairs and to fill online orders from around the world.  There is no official charge to visit the forge, however, we encourage visitors to leave a donation that contributes to the Trinity Historical Societies daily operations.

Blacksmith working in Trinity's Forge

 

TAKE TIME TO RELAX AT THE ARTISAN INN

The Bonavista Peninsula is a stunning destination.  One of the most common complaints we hear upon check out is that guests forgot to schedule the time to do nothing.   Even on days of cooler, or even wild weather, curling up with a book in one of our properties can do wonders for the soul. Some rooms and houses even come with their own private libraries.  We provide copies of the films The Grand Seduction, Maudie, Random Passage and The Shipping News to guests to watch in their rooms or vacation homes.  We also offer directions to many locations where these films were shot. If you love history and are disappointed to be missing the historic sites and museums, consider renting one of our properties built in the 1800s.

Admiral's Lookout Deck
Sara Monika Photography

EARLY OCTOBER OPERATIONS

Dock Marina and Gift Shop – Open until Thanksgiving
The Dock Marina Restaurant and Gift Shop will likely stay open until the end of Thanksgiving Weekend

Mirabella – Open until October 2nd
Mirabella Shop will remain open until the end of Thanksgiving Weekend.

Boat Tours
Boat tour operators in Trinity continue offering trips until mid-October. They will pull their boats from the water once they feel they can no longer meet the minimum number of passengers necessary to continue operating.

Trinity Historic Sites – Open until Thanksgiving
All Trinity Municipal and Historic Sites remain open until the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend.

Craft Shops – Open until Thanksgiving
The Stores associated with the historic sites, Trinity Crafts and Lester Garland Gift Shop will operate until the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend as will the store at the Eriksen Premises.

Businesses in Trinity that only operate for the first few days of October

Aunt Sarah’s Chocolate – Open until Thanksgiving
Aunt Sarah’s Chocolate typically stays open for the first few days of October.  Be advised that the owners of Aunt Sarah’s do respond to chocolate emergencies!  If you know you will want to purchase their chocolate, please let us know in advance and we will do our best to arrange for that to happen.

 

Communities and Directions

TRINITY, TRINITY BAY

 

 

Download Map of Trinity, Newfoundland

Trinity is located 1 hour from The Trans Canada Highway/Highway 1  once you take the exit for Route 230 (near the town of Clarenville)

Drivers have the option of driving directly from Highway 1 to route 230 or they can cut through the town of Clarenville taking Route 230A that eventually meets up with Route 230.  There is little difference in time between these two options, however, the second option is more scenic and more convenient if you plan to stop in Clarenville, which has larger grocery stores and a large NLC (Liquor Store) for supplies.

Drive 50.8km and along Route 230 and turn right onto Route 239

After 3km  you will see a large bay of blue and white buoys (this is a mussel farm)

There is a left-hand turn after this bay that leads into the historic town of Trinity.

Highlights: Shopping, Whale Watching Tours, 7 Historic Sites, Rising Tide Theatre, Dining, Gun Hill Trail, Guided Historical Walking Tour. Visit EXPLORE TRINITY to learn more.

For more details about getting to the Artisan Inn visit our GETTING HERE section.

The following communities located on Route 239, Route 230 and Route 235 are all easily accessible from Trinity ranging from 10 minutes to 50 minutes away.

SOUTH OF TRINITY on ROUTE 239

New Bonaventure

A film set from the Grand Seduction Located in New Bonaventure

Approximately 25 minutes from the Artisan Inn

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. turn left onto route 239 at the T intersection (located by the mussel farm).  New Bonaventure is located at the end of this road, 15.8km from Trinity.

Highlights: Rugged Beauty Boat Tours, Random Passage, Grand Seduction and Shipping News film sets and locations.

Fort Point

 

 

Approximately 19 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Drive for 1.9 Kilometers.  Turn left onto Main Road/Route 239 drive for 2.7km and turn left at Dunfield.  Continue driving for 4km.

Highlights: Fort Point Lighthouse and interpretation centre, whale spotting from land (during feeding months)

NORTH of TRINITY on ROUTE 230

Port Rexton/Trinity East

Approximately 13 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive 4.5km (5 minutes) to arrive at Port Rexton.  At the bright yellow gas station, turn right onto Rocky Hill Road and drive for 1.9km (3 minutes) passing Bishop White School and the Fisher’s Loft Conference Centre turn off, to reach Trinity East and the start point of the Skerwink Trail. To get to the Port Rexton Brewery, turn left off Rocky Hill Road onto Station Road.

Highlights: Port Rexton Brewery, Skerwink Trail, 2 Whales Vegetarian Coffee Shop

English Harbour

Cliffs of English Harbour

Approximately 19 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive 5.9 Kilometers and turn right at the English Harbour Sign.  Drive 4.9 more kilometers.  Continue through English Harbour to the Horse Chops for a great whale watching spot in season, however, visitors should be advised that the road becomes a dirt road and visitors should park their car and continue by foot if they do not feel that their vehicle can handle the terrain.  

Highlights: English Harbour Arts Centre, Horsechops (a coastal area great for viewing whales during feeding season)

Champney’s West

Approximately 18 minutes from the Artisan Inn

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive past Port Rexton, Passing the Two Whales Coffee Shop and take the next right to Champney’s West. You will reach a fork in the road and stay to the right. This drive from the 239/230 turn off is 7.2km.

Highlights: Fox Island Hiking Trail, Champney’s West Aquarium

Port Union

 

Approximately 30 minutes from the Artisan Inn

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Continue driving for 27.9km (approximately 25 minutes)

Highlights: Murphy’s Cove Lodges Pond Trail, The Factory Historic Site, The Bungalow Historic Site, Discovery UNESCO Geopark site.

Elliston & Maberly

Atlantic Puffins
Puffins by Paul Dolk: To purchase this print visit Paul Dolk’s Website

Approximately 45 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

Directions from Route 230: 
Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive for 39.7km until you reach the 238 turn-off on your right. Drive 6.3km to reach Elliston. Once in Elliston, The Sealer’s Memorial Statue is located on Main Road, to reach Bird Island, take Sandy Cove Road.  Continue Elliston municipal park and Bird Island to reach Maberly.

Alternative Directions from Bonavista
Directions from Bonavista/Spillar’s Cove: Staying on the main road, you will reach an intersection with signage for Spillar’s Cove. Turn right. this road is the northern section of route 238.  Drive past the Bonavista water tower (keeping it to your right) and past the two cemeteries opposite one another.  Reach Crewe’s Garage, located on a fork in the road.  Take the right arm of the fork. You should see a small sign for Route 238. Drive 7.1km (roughly 10 minutes) to reach Elliston and Maberly.

Highlights: Home From the Sea Sealers Museum, Sealer’s Memorial Statue, Puffin Viewing Site, Root Cellar Capital of the World

Bonavista

Approximately 45 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive for 37.km (40 minutes) until you enter the town of Bonavista.

Highlights: Ryan Premises National Historic Site, The Matthew, Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, Shopping, Cape Shore Hiking Trail, The Dungeon

Spillars Cove

Approximately 49 minutes from Trinity

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive for 37.km (40 minutes) until you enter the town of Bonavista.

Staying on the main road, you will reach an intersection with signage for Spillar’s Cove. Turn right. this road is the northern section of route 238.  Drive past the Bonavista water tower (keeping it to your right) and past the two cemeteries opposite one another.

Reach Crewe’s Garage, located on a fork in the road and continue driving straight (turning right will take you to Elliston). Drive 2.4km past Crewe’s Garage to arrive in Spillar’s Cove.

Please park your vehicle where the pavement ends and do not attempt to drive on the dirt road.  This will contribute to the erosion of a geologically significant area of our peninsula and makes it difficult for hikers to proceed safely.

Highlights: Spillar’s Cove Sea Stacks.  Tuckamore Discoveries Walking Tours

Route 235 Communities

The Bonavista Peninsula is a loop with Route 235 serving as the opposite side of the loop to Route 230.  One can either visit the communities on the way to Bonavista or on the way back from Bonavista.  These directions are assuming you are visiting these communities on the way to Bonavista.   We recommend you AVOID ROUTE 236.  This is a dirt road and can be unfriendly to your rental vehicle.

Open Hall, Red Cliff, Tickle Cove

Approximately 40 minutes from Trinity

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn left onto Route 230 at the T intersection. Drive 25.3 km (21 minutes) to the Route 235 turn off and turn right.  Drive 25.3 km (25 minutes) to reach the left turn to Open Hall (a few minutes past Plate Cove East).

To reach Red Cliff continue driving 2.4km (3 minutes)

To reach Tickle Cove continue driving 2.5km (5 minutes): The turn off in Tickle Cve to get to the sea Arch is a right hand turn just prior to the community slipway for boats. If you pass the slipway you have gone too far.

Highlights: Tickle Cove Sea Arch, Paul Dolk Photography Studio, Filming areas for Grand Seduction

King’s Cove, Duntara & Keels

Approximately 45 minutes from the Artisan Inn

Rocky Terrain with houses and ocean
Keels

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn Left onto Route 230 at the T intersection. Drive 26km (21 minutes) to the Route 235 turn off and turn right.  Drive 31.6km (28 minutes) until you reach King’s Cove.

If you wish to visit Duntara, turn left at King’s Cove and Drive 5.2km (7 minutes).

If you wish to visit Keels turn left at King’s Cove and drive 8.5km (14 minutes).

Highlights: Lighthouse Hiking Trail in King’s Cove, Devil’s Foot Prints in Keels, Two Rooms Contemporary Art Gallery in Duntara.

Upper Amherst Cove

A whale waves from the water in Upper Amherst Cove

Approximately 45 minutes from the Artisan Inn.

If you are continuing your drive from communities along Route 235, continue driving 18km (18 minutes) north to Upper Amherst Cove.

If you only want to visit Upper Amherst Cove and not the other communities along Rotue 235 follow the below directions.

Take the sharp hairpin turn left at the Royal Bank to get onto Trinity Road. Turn right onto route 239 at the T intersection and drive 3.6km. Turn right onto route 230. Drive 30.4km (24 minutes) to Catalina and turn right onto Route 237.

Drive 11km (12 minutes) along Route 237.  At the end of the road turn right.  Drive 1.8km north (2 minutes)  and turn left into Upper Amherst Cove.

Highlight: The Bonavista Social Club

Geological Wonders

High rocky cliffs in Newfoundland
Marieke Gow Photography

This list is a selection of stunning locations you may wish to visit as you travel throughout the area.  For more details and other suggested locations, consider downloading the Bonavista Geological Tour app.

 

ROUTE 230         

Skerwink Trail near Trinity, Newfoundland
Marieke Gow Photography                                                                                                       

PORT REXTON 

10 Minutes from Trinity

Skerwink Trail Sea Stacks

Located shortly after Skerwink trail turns from the old railway bed to the cut out coastal trail, the sea stacks can be viewed early in the walk and still enjoyed by those who do not wish to walk the entire trail.   

        

Dungeon Provincial Park Bonavista
Marieke Gow Photography

BONAVISTA 

45 Minutes from Trinity

The Dungeon Provincial Park                                                                             

Visit the park to stand above a collapsed sea cave with natural archways as the rough ocean waves crash in and flow out of the cave.  There are many horses and cows grazing in this area.   

PORT UNION

25 Minutes from Trinity

Fossils

Head to the Factory Historic Building in Port Union.  In front of the building is a boardwalk with a set of steps leading down to rocks and water.  During low tide, you can walk out to see various fossils embedded in the rocks.

CBC: N.L. fossil shows earliest evidence ever of animals with muscles

 

ROUTE 238

Elliston Root Cellar, Newfoundland
Marieke Gow Photography

ELLISTON

55 Minutes from Trinity

Root Cellars

Built from the naturally occurring rocks in the area and dug out from the hillsides, Root Cellars have put Elliston on the world map as the “Root Cellar Capital of the World.” Root cellars look somewhat like hobbit holes and various styles can be found in the area.  We recommend driving past the puffin viewing site in Elliston onto Circular Rd in Maberly to view the best selection.  

Large Sandy Beach in Elliston
Marieke Gow Photography

Elliston Beach

The only Sandy Beach on the Bonavista Peninsula is located on the way to the Puffin Viewing Site.

SPILLAR’S COVE / CABLE JOHN COVE

49 Minutes from Trinity

Sea Stack

This area is a hidden gem.  Just a few minutes by foot from the road, or accessible from the south by the Klondike Trail, Spillar’s Cove offers a landscape, largely barren of trees, with dramatic cliffs and an impressive sea stack.

ROUTE 235

TICKLE COVE

40 Minutes from Trinity

The Sea Arch

This area of the Bonavista Peninsula is predominantly formed from slate.  The cliffs jutting out of the ocean are pinkish purple rather than the grey you see in most areas on Eastern Newfoundland. The sea arch is located off a small road just before the community boat slipway. People often miss it.  Our advice is when you overshoot it and find yourself at the end of a road looking at a rock painted like a quilt is laid upon it, turn around, see the slipway and you will notice a narrow road past it heading right.  Following this road. You should see a small sign that says “Sea Arch”.  We recommend walking past the viewing platform to the top of the cliffs for a great view.

KEELS

60 Minutes from Trinity

The Devil's Footprints

The Devil’s footprints

In Keels, take a look at a geological phenomenon known as “The Devil’s Footprints”, pockets in the rocks, which, according to local folklore, are proof that the Devil walks this land at night. Keels itself is a beautiful community to stroll around and indulge one’s passion for photography.  

KING’S COVE

45 Minutes from Trinity

Multi-coloured cliffs of King's Cove
Marieke Gow Photography

Brooks Point

This stunning cliff is located on the Lighthouse Trail in King’s Cove.  It is an easy grade walk and you can access this lookout point after 25 minutes or so of walking.

BONAVISTA PENINSULA HIKING TRAILS

COMMUNITIES AND DIRECTIONS

Movie Sets and Locations

PETER PAN & WENDY (Release on Disney + late spring 2023)

Genre: Drama

Starring: Jude Law, Eva Anderson

Synopsis: Live-action adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of a boy who wouldn’t grow up and recruits three young siblings in London to join him on a magical adventure to the enchanted Neverland island. (synopsis courtesy of imbd)

Locations: This film was shot in both British Columbia and Newfoundland.  The rugged and wild landscape of the Bonavista Peninsula brings Neverland to life.    

Trinity – Fort Point: Fort Point located a 15 minute drive away from Artisan Inn is part of the municipality of Trinity and is where a British fortification stood until it was destroyed during a 15-day period when the French occupied Trinity in 1762.  The second installation of a fort was in 1812 to serve as protection against the raids of American privateers.  After the fort was abandoned, a lighthouse was installed in 1871.  The opening scene of the recently released Peter Pan & Wendy trailer shows Wendy on a beach in Neverland. This scene was filmed at the base of Fort Point showing the beach as well as the rock formation referred to by locals as the Naked Man. 

Other Locations: The movie will be released later in Spring 2023, while we don’t know what scenes made the final cut we do catch a brief glimpse in the preview of Wendy meeting the Lost Boys for the first time. This shoot location was at Spillars Cove / Cable John Cove. While not in the preview we know that scenes were also shot at Tickle Cove and the Dungeon. Spillars Cove/Cable John Cove, Tickle Cove and the Dungeon are all notable locations of the UNESCO Discovery Global Geopark.

Trailer:

Fort Point, Trinity – Photo Credit: Marieke Gow

 

MAUDIE

Genre: Drama

Starring: Sally Hawkins, Ethan Hawke

Synopsis: An arthritic Nova Scotia woman works as a housekeeper while she hones her skills as an artist and eventually becomes a beloved figure in the community. (synopsis courtesy of imbd)

Locations: This movie may be set in Nova Scotia, where the true life events took place, however, it was filmed here in Newfoundland.  

Trinity: The town of Trinity was used to represent Digby, Nova Scotia in this film. The mortuary on the road into Trinity (adjacent to the Eastern Health Building) was used as the wedding chapel where Ethan Hawke and Sally Hawkins’ characters wed. 

Port Rexton: A scene often repeated in the movie is of Ethan Hawke (Everett Lewis) pushing Sally Hawkin’s (Maude) on his cart as they travel to and from their tiny house outside of the town and Digby.  This scene was shot across from the Two Whales Coffee Shop in Port Rexton, an 8-minute drive from the Artisan Inn

Keels: The old town post office was transformed into the general store for the movie.  After filming was complete, a local business person turned the property into a tearoom called Maudie’s Tearoom.

 

Trinity, Newfoundland – Photo Credit: Marieke Gow

RANDOM PASSAGE

Genre: Drama

Starring: Colm Meaney, Aoife McMahon

Synopsis: A four-part miniseries that follows the lives and struggles of both Irish and English families that crossed the Atlantic to start a new life in Newfoundland.

Location: New Bonaventure

Random Passage was set in the early 1800s. The set for the community where the characters reside had to be built from scratch.  The location, just past the town of New Bonaventure, was selected because telephone and electrical wires could not be seen.  When filming was finished the town requested that the film set be left intact so that people could visit.  Even if you have not seen the series (8 hours long) or read the books, the site is well worth a visit.  

Random Passage – Photo Credit: Marieke Gow

Visit the Random Passage Site

THE GRAND SEDUCTION

Genre: Comedy

Starring: Brendon Gleeson, Gordon Pinsent, Taylor Kitch, Mark Critch

Synopsis: A Newfoundland village requires a permanent town doctor in order to convince a company to set up in their area and create jobs for those left unemployed by the fishing moratorium.  The village manages to convince a doctor to live in their community for a month and will stop at nothing to convince him that their small town life is one he does not want to leave.  

Locations: This movie was filmed throughout various parts of the Bonavista Peninsula

New Bonaventure: Joe’s bar was built specifically for the film with the agreement that it would be disassembled once filming was done, however, the town of New Bonaventure asked to have the set left as it was, so that visitors to the area could visit the set on a tour.  It does not function as an actual bar, but is used for special events such as kitchen parties from time to time.  Visitors can tour the building as part of an individual pass or joint pass with the Random Passage set tour.

Joe’s Place – Photo Credit: Marieke Gow

Tickle Cove: There is a scene in the movie when Gordon Pinsent emerges from the water in scuba gear after playing a trick on the doctor.  This is filmed in front of the Tickle Cove sea arch.  Whether you have watched the movie or not this geologically significant sight is worth a visit if one is driving along the scenic route 235.  

Tickle Cove Sea Arch – Photo Credit: Marieke Gow

 

Red Cliff: Red Cliff is where the Cricket Match was filmed.  It is possible to wander from the town of Red Cliff to this area, however, the trail is unmarked and not part of the Hike Discovery network, so visitors may do so at their own risk.

Open Hall: This was where the house the Doctor was put up in is located.  

Maberly: The scene where the Doctor is caught in the rain during a jog and finds his love interest taking cover under a stage was filmed in Maberly.

Visit Joe’s Bar

THE SHIPPING NEWS

Genre: Drama

Starring: Julianne Moore, Kevin Spacey, Judy Dench, Cate Blanchette

Synopsis: The Shipping News traces one man’s extraordinary journey toward self -discovery when he returns to his ancestral home on the coast of Newfoundland. After the death of his estranged wife, Quoyle’s fortunes begin to change when his long-lost aunt convinces him and his daughter to head north. Now in a place where life is as rough as the weather and secrets are as vast as the ocean, Quoyle lands a job as a reporter for the local paper. In the course of his new career, he uncovers some dark family secrets.

Location: The Town of New Bonaventure

The Director of the Shipping news spent two years trying to find the perfect location to bring the Annie Proulx novel to the big screen.  On one tour of Newfoundland, someone took him to see the set of the film Random Passage and as they passed the town of New Bonaventure he knew he had found the perfect location.

The House:  Many people ask us where they can visit the house from the movie, however, it was built for the film and taken down after shooting.  The house was located on an off-road from the Fort Point Lighthouse.  There is a new hike you can do around the general area called the South Side Hills Hike. 

Fun fact: Julianne Moore stayed at the Artisan Inn in the Barbour House during the 6 weeks of filming.

 

COMMUNITIES AND DIRECTIONS

Need more details on how to get to these spots from the Inn? Check out our Communities and Directions page!

Historical and Cultural Guided Tours

TRINITY

TRINITY HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS

Bring your imagination and join Kevin Toope as he relates the story of Trinity and its peoples; the Beothuk Indians, the French, the Irish, and the English and their contributions to a magnificent and colorful history. Through stories, historic photos, burial records, shipwrecks, and disasters you will time travel through the history of Newfoundland in the magical setting called Trinity.

Additional Links 

 Trinity Historical Walking Tours Website

Trip Advisor Reviews

Getting There

Distance from Twine Loft:  Walking Distance 8 minutes

Clinch’s Lane

BONAVISTA AREA

 

 

BONAVISTA ADVENTURE TOURS

Colourful yellow bakeapples are browned in a frying pan on a rocky beach in Newfoundland

A mix of tours including traditional boil-ups, an exploration of communities along Route 235 and a historic walking tour of the town of Bonavista.

Additional Links:

Bonavista Adventure Tours

Getting There:

Distance from Artisan Inn Trinity 48 minutes
Address: 148 Cape Shore Road

Google Maps directions

Trip Advisor Reviews

Performing and Fine Arts

TRINITY

The Bonavista Peninsula is a place where music, theatre and art are sewn into the fabric of our being.  Here are just a few options for where to take in quality art or experience musical or theatrical performances on the Bonavista Peninsula.  Many businesses and not-for-profits announce artistic events throughout the summer season.  If you are interested in what is going on be sure to ask us when you register. 

RISING TIDE THEATRE

Photo courtesy of Rising Tide Theatre

There is so much to be said about Rising Tide Theatre located in Trinity that we have created its own page under our Explore Trinity.  2018 marks the 40th year anniversary of the Theatre Company. Its director, Donna Butt, has received the order of Canada for her contribution to the arts in Canada.

Visit our Rising Tide Page to learn about 

RISING TIDE SEASONS IN THE BIGHT THEATRE FESTIVAL: EVERY NIGHT JUNE – LATE SEPT

RISING TIDE NEWFOUNDLAND TRINITY PAGEANT: WED & SAT JULY-LABOUR DAY

RISING TIDE DINNER THEATRE: WED & SAT JULY-LABOUR DAY

 

ST. PAUL’S SUMMER CONERT SERIES

Come experience the exceptional beauty and incredible acoustics of St. Paul’s.

Admission: By donation, to be used for maintenance of the church

Upcoming Concert Dates: Wednesday July 7 – 7:00pm – The Scallywags (bluegrass, country / NFLD)

Wednesday July 31st – 7:00pm – Maureen and Friends: A Celebration of Newfoundland Music

Sunday August 4th – 7:30pm – The Ennis Sisters

 

TWINE LOFT ART EXHIBITS

Art Exhibit at the Twine Loft

The Twine Loft uses its walls to exhibit original Newfoundland art and a majority of the pieces are for sale.  If you are not a guest of the inn or dining with us, you are welcome to come look at the art between 10am and 5:30pm when meal services are not taking place.

View our Art Exhibits page under our Restaurant section to learn more about featured artists.

PORT REXTON

10 Minutes from Trinity

TWO WHALES COFFEE SHOP

The Two Whales Coffee Shop doubles as a vegetarian restaurant and gallery space, featuring multiple exhibits, often of Newfoundland artists, throughout their operating season. They also host musical performances multiple times a month.  To find out which artists are being featured or concert schedules, visit their website.

Two Whales Website

FISHER’S LOFT CONFERENCE CENTRE

The Fisher’s Loft Conference centre often hosts art exhibits in the main conference room. On occasional evenings throughout the summer authors host book readings.

Fisher’s Loft Website

 

ENGLISH HARBOUR

19 minutes from Trinity

English Harbour Arts Centre

ENGLISH HARBOUR ARTS CENTRE

The English Harbour Arts Centre is a not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to the promotion of artistic and cultural education and the preservation of historic and cultural spaces. They are committed to operating an economically self-sustaining institution for the arts that provides learning opportunities for people of all ages and levels of artistic experience. Their multidisciplinary program includes art holidays, workshops, residencies, community outreach, special projects and public events. The English Harbour Arts Centre hosts various performances by some of Newfoundland’s most celebrated musicians including The Once, The Fortunate Ones, Matthew Byrne, The Ennis Sisters and many more.  

Additional Links

English Harbour Arts Centre Website

 

PORT UNION

30 Minutes from Trinity

UNION HOUSE ARTS

Art Gallery, Workshops, Screening Room, Artist Residencies, Community Events

Union House Arts (UHA) is a new community artspace operated through the Sir William F. Coaker Heritage Foundation. UHA is committed to supporting work being produced by artists and craftspeople in Newfoundland and Labrador through place-specific dialogues and collaborative programming in Port Union.

Summer hours are 11-5 Thursday – Monday, until the Biennale starts August 17th. Then the schedule changes to 10am-5pm daily.

Union House Arts Website

BONAVISTA

45 minutes from Trinity

looking out from the stage of the Garrick Theatre. A mic in the centre of the stage, red chairs and the lights are up.

THE GARRICK THEATRE

The  Garrick  is  a  multi-use,  200-seat  theatre  and  meeting  space  in  the  Town  of Bonavista.  Owned and  operated  by  the  Bonavista  Historic  Townscape  Foundation, this  year-round  cultural  facility offers comfortable  theatre  seating,  state-of-the-art sound   and   lighting   equipment   including   full   digital cinema,   and   exceptional acoustics.  At The Garrick you can find the best in performing arts and film.

Additional Links

The Garrick Theatre

 

For more information on Artisan Craft visit our page

SHOP LOCALLY MADE

For directions to these locations visit

COMMUNITIES AND DIRECTIONS

 

 

Shop Locally Made

Take the time to “Twack” as we say in Newfoundland or “Window Shop” as the rest of the world says.  The Bonavista Peninsula has become a destination where Artisans come to live in tranquil beauty and produce quality made cultural-crafts, including soap made from iceberg water, locally brewed beers, knit sweaters, locally made ice cream and more.  This list is focused on places where high-quality products are the focus and the artisans behind the products live in the area.

TRINITY

 

We have an entire section dedicated to what Trinity has to offer visitors looking to shop for Artisan Crafts and Eats under our EXPLORE TRINITY section. Click the link to learn about the following places

Trinity Crafts

The Green Family Forge

Mirabella Jewelry

Aunt Sarah’s Chocolate

Sweet Rock Icecream

Trinity Mercantile

The Cooperage

Lester Garland Craft Shop and more…

ARTISAN CRAFTS AND EATS IN TRINITY

PORT REXTON

10 Minutes from Trinity

A girl in a plaid shirt pulls a pint of beer

Port Rexton Brewery

The Port Rexton Brewery served its first mason jar of beer in July of 2016 and has quickly become one of the most popular destinations on our peninsula and the island.  Located in a renovated schoolhouse on Station Road, the brewery not only serves up a variety of beers including IPAs, Saisons and Porters but also serves as a bar and hangout area.  Please note that there is not currently a taxi service in the Trinity Bight Area, so please drink responsibly.

PORT UNION

25 minutes from Trinity

A clay mug sits on a rocky coastline with pack ice in the background

Wild Cove Ceramics

Here artist Michael Flaherty marries nature and art. He often works outdoors, digging clay, cutting wood, and collecting glaze materials for use in his studio.

BONAVISTA

45 Minutes from Trinity

East Coast Glow

This company’s mission is to create the purest luxury skin care on the planet using locally wild-crafted and sustainably grown botanicals and wild harvested icebergs.

Sweet Rock Ice Cream

Sweet Rock Icecream has locations in both Bonavista and Trinity.  The Bonavita location also sells a selection of Aunt Sarah’s Chocolates.  We won’t lie though, the view from Sweet Rock’s Trinity Location can’t be beaten.

Tree Line Fine Art and Craft 

Tree Line Fine Art and Craft is a craft retail shop and studio, owned by Morgaine Parnham, a textile artist from Portugal Cove, Newfoundland. Tree Line focuses on showcasing the finest emerging craftspeople from around the province. The space is also used as Morgaine’s weaving studio and she creates craft on site. 

This list does not include everyone on the Peninsula as new artisans are appearing in the area every season.  The Artisan Inn staff will be happy to provide you with a complete overview once you check in.

COMMUNITIES AND DIRECTIONS

Puffin Viewing

Atlantic Puffins
Puffins by Paul Dolk: To purchase this print, visit Paul Dolks Website

The Bonavista Peninsula is one of the few places in North America where you can get up close to a puffin colony, without having to get on a boat, although, you can do that too if you wish.  

ELLISTON: BIRD ISLAND

Bird Island is one of the best places to view Puffins from land in Newfoundland. It’s location is accessible free of cost, but we encourage our visitors to contribute a small amount to the donation box as there is some infrastructure and upkeep required for the site and area.  

Puffin Viewing Donation Box

When you arrive at the Puffin site, there is a 5-minute walk from the road to the cliff that faces the island where to Puffins nest. Depending on the time of the day, their mood and the size of the crowd, the puffins may fly to your side of the cliffs.  

Elliston has become very popular with visitors.  If you would like to experience the puffins in a less crowded environment, we suggest taking a tour with Tuckamore Discovery Tours, or ask the Artisan Inn Staff when you check in where some other, more locally known, spots to view puffins are.

For directions to Elliston from Trinity please visit our page

Communities and Directions

Additional Links

http://www.townofelliston.ca/5ttd/puffins.html

Video: Candice Does Newfoundland: Elliston Puffins and Roots Cellars

Downhome Article about Tuckamore Discoveries Puffin Tours

Matador Network: Elliston Puffins

Information about puffins from Canadian Geographic:

The Atlantic Puffin is a pigeon-sized sea bird, the smallest species of puffin. Their black head, back and wings contrast sharply with their white underside, while their blue, orange and yellow beaks and bright orange feet give them a splash of colour.  

Puffins are poor fliers and evolution has not yet helped them to develop a graceful landing strategy.  While not as useful in the air, their wings make them excellent underwater swimmers.

Puffins live for the majority of the year at sea, but come to land to breed and burrow on the Bonavista Peninsula between late May and late August. Puffins normally keep the same mate and burrow from year to year and, on average, live for up to 20 years.

An Atlantic Puffin flies over Bird Island in Elliston
Puffins by Paul Dolk: To purchase this print, visit Paul Dolk’s Website

Whale and Iceberg Tours

 

Trinity Bay and Bonavista Bay serve as nature’s playground during the Spring and Summer months in Newfoundland.  

Twenty-two species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises swim the waters along the coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador during the months of May to August. The Bonavista Peninsula is a perfect location to see and appreciate these magnificent creatures of the sea.  

Some species spotted in Trinity Bay and Bonavista Bay include: Humpback Whales, Sperm Whales, Minke Whales, Pothead Whales and Killer Whales (Orcas).  White-sided dolphins and Bluefin Tuna are frequently spotted during the Fall.  

Boat tours also provide the opportunity to see the many majestic icebergs floating past Trinity during Spring and early Summer.  The prime time to see icebergs is between late May and late June.

Finally, the Peninsula’s unique geological features offer an added bonus on every trip.

A whale shows off during a tour with Sea of Whales Adventures
Marieke Gow Photography

Those who come to visit during the month of June and early July are sometimes lucky enough to spot icebergs, whales and various sea birds, including: the Atlantic Puffin and Bald Eagles all at once!

To see daily records of whale sightings in our area CLICK HERE.  

The two communities that offer boat tours with the focus of seeing wildlife are Trinity and Bonavista.

TRINITY

Three boat tours are located within walking distance of the Artisan Inn

A group of people wearing flotation safety suits sit in a zodiac operated by Sea of Whales adventures
Photo Taken on Sea of Whale Adventure Tours. The #1 boat tour on trip advisor for the town of Trinity

Sea of Whales Adventure  

Vessel Type: Zodiac
Phone: 1-709-464-2200
Address: 1 Ash’s Lane
Walking Distance from the Twine Loft: 2 minutes     

                                                                    

Atlantic Adventures                                                                                                                                  

Vessel Type: Trawller sailer
Phone: 1-709-464-2133
Address: 1 Dock Lane
Walking distance from the Twine Loft: 6 minutes                                           

Trinity Eco Tours   

Vessel Type: Zodiac
Phone: 1-709-464-3712
Address: 1 Stoneman’s Lane
Walking distance from the Twine Loft: 4 minutes

BONAVISTA

A boat tour returning at sunset to a flock of puffins

Discovery Sea Adventures

Vessel Type: Fast Rescue Craft
Phone: 1-709-470-0322
Address: Roper Street, Bonavista NL
Located in the parking lot of the Matthew Legacy site

Bonavista Puffin and Whale Tours

Vessel Type: Larger vessel type with indoor and outdoor seating and a washroom on board
Phone: 1-709-468-8438
Address: 15 Roper Street, Bonavista NL
Located in the parking lot of the Matthew Legacy site.

Places to Whale Watch From Land in Trinity Bight

While boat tours offer a first class whale watching experience, getting you up close and personal with wildlife, not everyone has the greatest sea legs.  We can never guarantee a whale sighting, however, we can tell you where the locals often go to watch Humpbacks feeding once they have arrived for the season.  Our staff receive updates from local boat tours and summer residents when pods are feeding close to shore in certain area’s.  We do our best to communicate anything exciting that we are aware of when we register guests at the inn or during morning breakfast.

Fort Point Lighthouse and Beach

Watch for humpback whales on the beach of Fort Point, Trinity

We recommend getting a lunch to go from Trinity Mercantile Coffee Shop and heading to Fort Point Lighthouse for a picnic.  Whales are often seen feeding during the month of July just off the point’s beach.

Driving Distance from Trinity: 19 Minutes

English Harbour / Horse Chops

Cliffs of English Harbour
Located 19 minutes from the Artisan Inn

This is the area many locals go to watch whales from the cliffs. The beach in English Harbour is also a popular spot to watch the capelin when they start to roll.  locals are often seen here with buckets to harvest the small silver fish for a meal.

Driving Distance from Trinity: 19 Minutes

Skerwink Trail, Trinity East/Port Rexton

Skerwink Trail
Marieke Gow Photography

Whales often feed below the cliffs, offering hikers a bird’s eye view.  One cannot drive up to these spots, but instead, must hike the outer trail for the best vantage points.

Driving distance from Trinity: 13 minutes

Please note that whales are wild animals and their feeding times and locations can never be guaranteed.

Find Driving Directions to all communities mentioned

COMMUNITIES AND DRIVING DIRECTIONS