Canada’s eastern frontier where rugged coastlines, wildlife, and maritime culture come together.
A holiday to Newfoundland and Labrador takes you to Canada’s Atlantic edge, where dramatic cliffs, quiet fishing communities, and vast wilderness create one of the country’s most distinctive travel experiences.
Newfoundland and Labrador is shaped by the North Atlantic. Icebergs drift along the coastline in spring, whales arrive through the summer, and colourful outports remain closely connected to the sea that has supported them for generations. The landscape changes quickly between rocky headlands, sheltered coves, boreal forest, and open barrens, with long coastal roads linking communities that still hold a strong sense of local identity.
St. John’s is the natural starting point, combining brightly painted streets, historic harbour views, and a lively food scene with easy access to the surrounding coastline. Signal Hill and Cape Spear introduce the province’s maritime history, while nearby hiking trails reveal cliffs where seabirds and whales are regular sights. Beyond the capital, the Bonavista Peninsula offers traditional fishing villages and iceberg viewing, Gros Morne National Park brings fjords, mountains, and freshwater lakes, and Labrador rewards travellers seeking genuine wilderness, Indigenous culture, and remote northern landscapes.
Wildlife is one of the province’s greatest strengths. Humpback whales, puffins, moose, and seabirds are seen throughout the warmer months, while spring brings the famous Iceberg Alley as ancient ice drifts south from Greenland. Seafood remains central to local cuisine, with cod, crab, mussels, and lobster appearing on menus alongside warm Newfoundland hospitality.
Key Destinations
Gros Morne National Park is the province’s standout destination. Fjords, coastal mountains, and the distinctive Tablelands create landscapes unlike anywhere else in Canada. Guided boat trips through Western Brook Pond, scenic walks, and quiet coastal communities make it ideal for travellers who enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort.
The Avalon Peninsula combines history with easy coastal exploration. St. John’s provides excellent restaurants, boutique accommodation, and cultural attractions, while nearby Cape Spear, Bay Bulls, and Witless Bay offer whale watching, puffin colonies, and dramatic Atlantic viewpoints. Bonavista and Trinity reward slower travel with heritage architecture, working harbours, and some of the best opportunities to see icebergs during late spring and early summer.
Best Time to Visit
Late May through September offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing, coastal drives, hiking, and boat excursions. Icebergs are most commonly seen from May into June, while July and August bring the warmest weather and peak whale watching. Autumn offers quieter roads, colourful landscapes, and comfortable temperatures before winter weather begins to affect travel in more remote areas.
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