Rencontre East Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Rencontre East in Newfoundland and Labrador. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Rencontre East

Rencontre East is a remote community located in Southern Newfoundland, in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is a peaceful and scenic destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Atlantic Canada. With a population of just over 200 people, this picturesque fishing village is a true hidden gem.

List of Places to Visit in Rencontre East

There are plenty of things to see and do in Rencontre East. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Museum: Located on Main Street, the museum showcases the history of Rencontre East and its people. Visitors can see artifacts from the community’s fishing and logging industries, as well as displays on the area’s geology and wildlife.

  • The Lighthouse: The lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rencontre East. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for photographers.

Natural Attractions of Rencontre East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Coastal Trail: This 11 km hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is perfect for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can see wildlife, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes along the way.

  • Gulch Falls: A short hike from the village will take visitors to Gulch Falls. This beautiful waterfall is a popular spot for picnics and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rencontre East

The coastal trail is the most popular hiking route in Rencontre East. Biking is also a great way to explore the area, with scenic routes available for different skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Rencontre East: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Fishing is a big part of life in Rencontre East. Visitors can take a guided fishing trip and try their hand at catching local species like cod and trout.

  • Boat Tours: Boat tours offer visitors a chance to see Rencontre East from a different perspective. The tours take visitors around the nearby islands and offer a chance to see seabirds and whales in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rencontre East

Day 1: Arrive in Rencontre East and settle in Day 2: Explore the village and visit the Museum and Lighthouse Day 3: Hike the coastal trail and visit Gulch Falls Day 4: Take a guided fishing trip and try to catch local fish Day 5: Take a boat tour and see the wildlife and seabirds Day 6: Rent a bike and explore the scenic routes around Rencontre East Day 7: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area

Food and Drink Scene of Rencontre East

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: Freshly caught cod is a local specialty and is often served as fish and chips.

  • Bakeapple Cheesecake: This delicious dessert features a local berry called a bakeapple, which is similar to a raspberry.

Local Beverages

  • Iceberg Beer: This refreshing beer is made using water from iceberg run-off.

Where to Stay in Rencontre East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Rencontre East, including:

  • The Anchor Inn: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms and delicious meals.

  • The Bungalow: This guesthouse offers a unique and private setting for guests.

What to Buy in Rencontre East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Fish Products: Local fish products like smoked salmon and cod liver oil are popular souvenirs.

  • Crafts: Local artisans create beautiful crafts like pottery and textiles that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Rencontre East

The people of Rencontre East are known for their warm hospitality and love of the sea. Fishing is a way of life, and visitors are often welcomed into the local fishing community to learn about this important industry. The community is also proud of its heritage and celebrates it through events like the annual Rencontre East Heritage Festival.

Best Time to Visit Rencontre East

The best time to visit Rencontre East is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is mild, and the days are long, which is perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rencontre East

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try the local seafood
  • Take part in local events and festivals

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or the natural environment
  • Litter or leave trash behind
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their property

Safety and Health

Safety in Rencontre East

Rencontre East is a safe and welcoming community. Visitors should be aware of the potential hazards of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.

Health in Rencontre East

There are no medical facilities in Rencontre East. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and should bring any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Rencontre East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rencontre East

The nearest airport to Rencontre East is St. John’s International Airport, which is approximately 250 km away. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to reach Rencontre East.

Bus Stations Near Rencontre East

Greyhound Canada operates a bus service to nearby cities like St. John’s and Clarenville.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Rencontre East by taking a ferry to nearby communities like Bay L’Argent or Pool’s Cove.

How to Get Around in Rencontre East

The village is small enough to walk around, but visitors can also rent a bike or car to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Rencontre East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations include:

  • St. John’s: The capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador is known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks.

  • Cape Breton Island: This stunning island is located in Nova Scotia and is known for its spectacular natural scenery and rich history.

Conclusion

Rencontre East is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Newfoundland and Labrador. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals, it is a place that will leave a lasting impression on visitors. Plan your trip now and discover all that Rencontre East has to offer.

Overlooking Rencontre East from the Atlantic Ocean Overlooking Rencontre East from the Atlantic Ocean Overlooking the government dock in the Rencontre East Harbour Overlooking the government dock in the Rencontre East Harbour