Lewisporte Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Lewisporte, Newfoundland and Labrador. Plan your trip with this comprehensive tour guide now!


Introduction to Lewisporte

Lewisporte is a picturesque town in Central Newfoundland, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Atlantic Canada. It is an idyllic destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. The town is situated on the shores of the scenic Notre Dame Bay, surrounded by rugged hillsides and pristine wilderness, making it a perfect spot for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure packed vacation, Lewisporte has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Lewisporte

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lewisporte Heritage Centre

The Lewisporte Heritage Centre is a must-visit attraction for all history lovers. The museum showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of Lewisporte and its surrounding regions. Located on 35 Bennett Avenue, the museum houses six exhibition halls featuring the town’s maritime and logging history, traditional industries, and cultural artifacts of the indigenous Beothuk people.

Memorial University Botanical Garden

The Memorial University Botanical Garden is a stunning attraction, consisting of 110 acres of natural beauty, greenhouses, and display gardens. The gardens feature thousands of plant species, including rare and exotic varieties. With its breathtaking scenery and peaceful ambiance, this garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll or relaxing picnic.

Natural Attractions of Lewisporte: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Burnt Berry Pond

Burnt Berry Pond is a hidden gem located within a short driving distance from Lewisporte, offering a beautiful and tranquil setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and lush green forests surrounding the pond, Burnt Berry Pond is perfect for fishing, camping, hiking, or picnicking.

Hiken’ Bike Trail

The Hiken’ Bike Trail is a 7.5-kilometer multi-use trail that connects the communities of Lewisporte and Embree and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region on foot or bicycle. The trail passes through forests, wetlands, and alongside the stunning Indian Arm Brook, providing ample opportunities to observe wildlife, spot rare flowers, and take in picturesque views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lewisporte

Esso Trail

The Esso Trail is a breathtaking hike that leads to the summit of Red Cliff, offering spectacular views of the scenic Notre Dame Bay. The trail starts at the end of Hunt’s Road and is accessible by foot or bike. This strenuous trail features steep inclines, uneven terrain, and is approximately 5.5 kilometers long, taking about 2-3 hours to complete.

Indian Arm Brook Trail

The Indian Arm Brook Trail is a serene hike that follows the Indian Arm Brook and leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail begins at the end of Juniper Street and is approximately 1.5 kilometers long, taking about 30 minutes to complete. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and is an excellent spot for bird watching and wildlife observation.

Best Things to Do in Lewisporte: Activities and Tours

Boat Tours

The picturesque bay and other waterways surrounding Lewisporte are perfect for a scenic boat tour, allowing visitors an opportunity to get up close and personal with the region’s wildlife and natural beauty. One popular tour is the Bay of Exploits Boat Tour, a two-and-a-half-hour tour that includes sea caves, puffins, humpback whales, and other marine animals.

Fishing

For avid anglers, the town of Lewisporte is a perfect destination for sport fishing. The region is renowned for its world-class fishing opportunities, including salmon fishing, trouting, and deep-sea fishing. Several outfitters in the area offer guided tours and fishing charters for visitors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lewisporte

Day 1: Explore the Lewisporte Heritage Centre, stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and have a meal in one of the town’s local restaurants.

Day 2: Enjoy a day of hiking or biking on the Esso Trail. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and take in the stunning views from Red Cliff.

Day 3: Take a boat tour of nearby Bay of Exploits or visit the nearby fishing village of Twillingate.

Day 4: Take a leisurely stroll in the Memorial University Botanical Garden, admire scenic views, and take plenty of photos.

Day 5: Spend the day fishing and boating in the Indian Arm Brook or nearby Burnt Berry Pond.

Day 6: Visit Gander, a nearby town connected to Lewisporte by a scenic highway, and explore its museums and historic sites.

Day 7: Take a day to relax and explore the town’s local shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Lewisporte

Must-Try Dishes

One of Newfoundland’s iconic dishes is the traditional “Jiggs Dinner,” featuring boiled cabbage, salt beef, potatoes, carrots, and turnips. This comfort food is a staple in many local restaurants. Other must-try dishes include Fish and Chips, Seafood Chowder, and Newfoundland’s unique dessert, Toutons.

Local Beverages

One of the most famous beverages in Newfoundland is Screech, a type of rum that has become synonymous with the island’s history and culture. Other popular drinks in the region include Iceberg Beer, YellowBelly Beer, and traditional Newfoundland Rum.

Where to Stay in Lewisporte: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several affordable accommodation options in Lewisporte, including hotels, motels, guesthouses, and campsites. Some popular places to stay include The Viking RV Park & Campground, Hotel North, and Oceanview Resort & Conference Centre.

What to Buy in Lewisporte: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Lewisporte can bring home some unique souvenirs and local products, including traditional Newfoundland knitted apparel, local jams and preserves, handmade crafts and pottery, and locally sourced soaps and candles from the province’s many artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Lewisporte

Newfoundland’s culture revolves around hospitality. Visitors can expect friendly locals, lively music, and traditional folk festivals year-round. Newfoundlanders are known for their unique accent and dialect, which includes phrases that are specific to the region.

Best Time to Visit Lewisporte

The best time to visit Lewisporte is during the summer months of June to August when the temperatures are mild, and the weather is sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, visitors should be aware that summer is also the peak tourist season, and accommodation tends to be more expensive during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lewisporte

Do:

  • Explore the natural parks and trails, such as the Esso Trail and Burnt Berry Pond.
  • Try the local delicacies and drinks, such as Jiggs Dinner, Toutons, and Screech.
  • Get to know the friendly locals and participate in the many cultural events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings, animals, or plants.
  • Ignore the signs and warnings while hiking or biking on the trails.
  • Approach wild animals, especially moose, as they can be dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lewisporte

Lewisporte is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates, and welcoming community. Visitors should still take the necessary precautions, such as locking their doors and not leaving valuables in their vehicles. When hiking or biking on trails, visitors must be prepared with proper gear, such as sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and emergency supplies.

Health in Lewisporte

Healthcare services in Lewisporte are available at the Notre Dame Bay Memorial Health Centre. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance before travelling to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Getting to Lewisporte: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lewisporte

The nearest airport to Lewisporte is Gander International Airport, located approximately 70 kilometers from Lewisporte. Direct flights to Gander International Airport are available from major cities in Canada, such as Toronto and Halifax.

Bus Stations Near Lewisporte

There are no bus stations in Lewisporte, but visitors can take Coach Atlantic from St. John’s or Corner Brook to Lewisporte.

Other Options

Car rentals are available at Gander International Airport or in St. John’s. Visitors are encouraged to book ahead of time as supplies may be limited, especially during the peak tourist season.

How to Get Around in Lewisporte

The town is small and easy to navigate, with most attractions within walking distance. Taxis and car rentals are also available for visitors who prefer to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Lewisporte: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Twillingate

Twillingate is a nearby fishing village, known for its picturesque landscapes, lighthouses, and ocean-related activities, such as boating, sea kayaking, and whale watching.

Gander

Gander is a nearby town, located on the Trans-Canada Highway, known for its aviation history, vibrant arts scene, and shopping.

Conclusion

Lewisporte is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. From stunning hiking trails and outdoor adventures to friendly locals and unique cuisine, Lewisporte offers visitors an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or family, plan your trip to Lewisporte today and discover the magic of this fascinating town.

Lewisporte Town Hall Lewisporte Town Hall Lewisporte Train Park Lewisporte Train Park