Bonavista Peninsula Travel Guide
Explore the culturally and naturally rich Bonavista Peninsula with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit places, local culture, food and drink, safety tips, and more.
- Introduction to Bonavista Peninsula
- List of Places to Visit in Bonavista Peninsula
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Bonavista Peninsula
- Best Things to Do in Bonavista Peninsula: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Bonavista Peninsula
- Food and Drink Scene of Bonavista Peninsula
- Where to Stay in Bonavista Peninsula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Bonavista Peninsula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Bonavista Peninsula
- Best Time to Visit Bonavista Peninsula
- Do’s and Don’ts of Bonavista Peninsula
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Bonavista Peninsula: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Bonavista Peninsula
- Where to Go Next from Bonavista Peninsula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Bonavista Peninsula
Located in Eastern Newfoundland, in Newfoundland and Labrador, in Atlantic Canada, in Canada, in North America, Bonavista Peninsula offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. The rugged coastline, charming villages, and historical sites make it a perfect destination for adventurers and history buffs alike.
In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Bonavista Peninsula
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Ryan Premises National Historic Site
Learn about Bonavista Peninsula’s rich fishing history at Ryan Premises National Historic Site. Explore the fishing inshore premises, fish stores, and even visit a cooperage where barrels for fish and goods were made.
Bonavista Museum
The Bonavista Museum contains various exhibits showcasing the town’s history and lifestyle of yesteryears. Some of the highlights include an original British lighthouse lens, a working telegraph station, and artifacts from the Mercy Convent.
The Dungeon Provincial Park
The Dungeon Provincial Park is a hidden treasure of Bonavista Peninsula. It is renowned for its natural sea-formed arches and high cliffs. It is a perfect place to capture stunning photographs or hike trails varying in difficulty.
Natural Attractions of Bonavista Peninsula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Elliston
Elliston is a charming fishing village on the Bonavista Peninsula that is famous for its puffin viewing. Local boats will take visitors out to the islands to see the beautiful Atlantic Puffin up close. It’s a must-visit place in Bonavista Peninsula.
Cape Bonavista Lighthouse
Cape Bonavista Lighthouse is a historical site and a favorite spot among photographers. It offers visitors with panoramic views of the coastline and ocean, making it one of the most scenic places in Bonavista Peninsula.
Sandy Cove
Sandy Cove is one of the most stunning beaches in Bonavista Peninsula. One of the most unique features of this beach is the massive boulder in the water that is perfect for climbing or a picnic lunch.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Bonavista Peninsula
Cape Shore Trail
The Cape Shore Trail is a 5.3 km trail that passes through coastal forests and meadows. The trail is accessible all year round and offers hikers with beautiful sceneries.
Maberly Loop
The Maberly Loop is a 16.2 km gravel looped trail that is perfect for experienced cyclists. This challenging trail passes through heathlands and coastal, making it a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
Best Things to Do in Bonavista Peninsula: Activities and Tours
Whale Watching
Whale watching is an activity that Bonavista Peninsula is famous for. You can go whale-watching in Bay Bulls or Trout River and see various whale species including the humpback and orca.
Fossil Hunting
Bonavista Peninsula is famous for its impressive collection of fossils that date back millions of years. Tourists can try their luck at fossil hunting or visit the nearby Bonavista North Regional Museum to explore its impressive collection.
Week-Long Itinerary for Bonavista Peninsula
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Bonavista Museum and the Bonavista Lighthouse |
| Day 2 | Hike the Cape Shore Trail and stop by the Dungeon Provincial Park |
| Day 3 | Enjoy the scenic views at Sandy Cove and St. Patrick’s Cove |
| Day 4 | Explore the charming village of Elliston and go puffin watching |
| Day 5 | Take an Eco-Adventure tour or try your hand at fossil hunting |
| Day 6 | Visit the towns of Trinity and Port Rexton |
| Day 7 | End your trip hiking the Skirwink Trail and taking the time to savor the views |
Food and Drink Scene of Bonavista Peninsula
Must-Try Dishes
Fish and Brewis
Fish and Brewis is a traditional Newfoundland dish made of saltfish and hard biscuits. It is usually served with a side of scrunchions, small bits of fried pork fatback.
Toutons
Toutons are a quintessential Newfoundland breakfast item made from dough and fried in pork fat. Served with butter, syrup, or molasses, they are a delicious and filling meal.
Local Beverages
Quidi Vidi Brewery
Quidi Vidi Brewery is a craft beer company that brews various beer types, including pale ale, amber ale, and iceburg beer. One can take a brewery tour, with tastings included, while in Bonavista.
Where to Stay in Bonavista Peninsula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Artisan Inn
The Artisan Inn, in the charming village of Trinity, offers luxurious accommodations with a historic feel. Visitors can also enjoy fine dining at their Twine Loft Restaurant.
The Russelltown Inn
The Russelltown Inn, a restored 19th-century merchant’s house, is located in beautiful Catalina. Rooms are styled as if from a bygone era, and guests can also enjoy a self-guided architecture tour of the area.
What to Buy in Bonavista Peninsula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Bonavista Creative
Bonavista Creative sells various handmade craft items that are made by local artisans. They have a wide selection of Newfoundland-inspired crafts, perfect for anyone looking for unique souvenirs to bring home.
Local Culture and Customs of Bonavista Peninsula
Bonavista Peninsula has maintained much of its fishing traditions and customs. The locals here are friendly and welcoming, often willing to recount some of the peninsula’s most exceptional stories throughout history.
Best Time to Visit Bonavista Peninsula
The best time to visit Bonavista Peninsula is between May and October. During this time, the weather is mild, and visitors can experience the peninsula’s exquisite coastal landscapes and nature.
Do’s and Don’ts of Bonavista Peninsula
Do:
- Do try the local cuisine, especially traditional Newfoundland dishes like fish and brewis and toutons.
- Do explore the hiking/biking trails and the pristine natural landscapes of Bonavista Peninsula.
- Do visit the cultural attractions and historical sites that help tell the area’s rich history.
Don’t:
- Don’t leave trash on hiking/biking trails or in the environment.
- Don’t feed wild animals.
- Don’t take anything from historical and cultural sites or nature preserves.
Safety and Health
Safety in Bonavista Peninsula
Bonavista Peninsula is generally safe for travelers, but it is essential to watch your belongings. Visitors should also listen to local weather reports, especially when venturing out into the ocean or the beaches.
Health in Bonavista Peninsula
Bonavista Peninsula has excellent healthcare facilities, but visitors are recommended to travel with health insurance. Additionally, visitors should confirm that they have updated routine vaccines.
Getting to Bonavista Peninsula: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Bonavista Peninsula
The nearest airport to Bonavista Peninsula is the St. John’s International Airport, which is approximately 250 kilometers away. Visitors can also fly into Gander International Airport, which is approximately 300 kilometers from Bonavista Peninsula.
Bus Stations Near Bonavista Peninsula
A few bus companies operate on the Bonavista Peninsula, including DRL Coachlines and Labrador Coach Lines. There are bus stations in cities like St. John’s and Gander, with frequent services to the peninsula.
Other Options
Visitors can also get to Bonavista Peninsula by car or ferry from St. John’s or Argentia.
How to Get Around in Bonavista Peninsula
Visitors can travel around Bonavista Peninsula by rental car, bike, or on foot. Taxi services are also available for those who prefer not to drive.
Where to Go Next from Bonavista Peninsula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Terra Nova National Park
Terra Nova National Park is approximately 150 kilometers from Bonavista Peninsula. Visitors can explore the park’s dense forest, scenic vistas, and hiking trails.
Gros Morne National Park
Gros Morne National Park is located approximately 450 kilometers from Bonavista Peninsula. It’s known for its majestic fjords, vibrant cultural scene, and a stunning view of the natural landscapes.
Conclusion
Bonavista Peninsula is a culturally and naturally rich destination that offers visitors a wide range of activities, sights, and sounds to explore and experience. This travel guide is a great place to start planning your trip to this beautiful part of Canada. With a little preparation and research, you can experience the best that Bonavista Peninsula has to offer.
