How to Spend 5 Weeks in NL A Senior-Friendly Travel Guide

How to spend 5 weeks in NL A Senior-Friendly Travel Guide. A 5 week vacation to Newfoundland is a wonderful trip! Newfoundland is a fantastic destination, especially for live music, markets, and history. Let’s break down your planning:

Time Allocation:

5 Weeks is Ideal: With 5 weeks, you can comfortably explore the island’s diverse regions without feeling rushed, which is particularly important when travelling with a senior.

Minimum 3 Weeks: Even if you have less time, aim for at least 3 weeks to get a good sense of the island. Anything less will feel very rushed.

Visit Newfoundland in June or September?

Early June:

Advantages: Reduced crowds, blossoming wildflowers, possible iceberg season, and comfortable temperatures.

Cons: Early in the season, several attractions may have limited hours and erratic weather.

September: Benefits include reduced crowds, pleasant weather, and stunning fall foliage (later in the month).

Cons: The possibility of early storms, the end of the iceberg season, and the possible closure of some seasonal attractions.

Recommendation: We recommend you visit in early June if you want to avoid crowds and have the chance to see icebergs. Just bring layers in case the weather changes.

5 Week Itinerary:

St. John’s and the Avalon Peninsula (7-10 Days)

• Fly into St. John’s Airport (YYT).
• Explore St. John’s: Signal Hill, The Rooms museum, downtown’s colourful Jellybean Row houses, and live music on George Street. Discover the lively ambiance of George Street, which is well-known for its bars and live music.
• For a genuine Newfoundland experience, think about holding a “Screech-in” ceremony in a nearby pub.
• Having fresh seafood for dinner at a nearby restaurant.
• Day trips: Cape Spear (North America’s easternmost point). Travel to the easternmost point of North America, Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site. Enjoy the breathtaking coastline views or, if you’re an early riser, see the sunrise.
• Hidden Gems: Quidi Vidi Village, local craft breweries, farmers’ markets.
• Go to Petty Harbour, a quaint fishing village. Savour delicious fish and chips for lunch at Chafe’s Landing.
• The Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium might be worth a visit.
• Explore the vibrant stores, art galleries, and historic structures as you stroll down Water Street and Duckworth Street.

The Southern Shore (3-4 Days):

• Drive along the picturesque Southern Shore during your three or four-day stay.
• Avalon’s Ferryland Colony. Explore the ruins of an English settlement at the Colony of Avalon archaeological site.
• An extremely unusual lunch option is a picnic from the “Lighthouse Picnics” company.
• See tiny fishing communities such as Trepassey, St. Shotts, and Bay Bulls.
• Travel to the Ecological Reserve at Mistaken Point.
• See some of the earliest fossils on Earth, including those of Ediacaran life, by going on a guided tour. Reservations for tours must be made in advance.
• Hidden Treasures: local seafood shacks and hiking portions of the East Coast Trail appropriate for hikers of all skill levels.
• Go on a puffin and whale-watching tour with Bay Bulls. Either Gatherall’s Puffin & Whale Watch or O’Brien’s Boat Tours.

What are the top tourist attractions in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

Bay Bulls is known for its incredible whale-watching tours, particularly with O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours. Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is famous for its puffin colonies and seabird watching. Both areas also offer beautiful coastal hiking trails, such as the East Coast Trail.

Where can I go whale watching in Bay Bulls?

O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours is the most popular whale-watching operator in Bay Bulls. Their tours often spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life, providing an unforgettable experience.

What wildlife can I see in Witless Bay Ecological Reserve?

The Ecological Reserve in Witless Bay is home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony, common murres, black-legged kittiwakes, and other seabirds on the island. During certain seasons, visitors can also see humpback whales and dolphins.

How do I get to Bay Bulls and Witless Bay from St. John’s?

Bay Bulls and Witless Bay are approximately a 30-minute south of St. John’s. Take the Southern Shore Highway directly to these coastal towns.

What are the best hiking trails in Bay Bulls?

The Spout Path and Mickeleens Path are part of the East Coast Trail network and are highly recommended for their scenic coastal views, challenging terrain, and natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Witless Bay to watch puffins?

The best time to see puffins in Witless Bay is mid-May to mid-September. During this period, thousands of puffins nest and raise their young on the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve islands.

Are there any good restaurants in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

In Mobile, The Captain’s Table is well-known for its seafood dishes and delicious local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

The Burin Peninsula (4-5 Days):

• Visit the ancient cities of Fortune and Grand Bank during your four or five-day stay on the Burin Peninsula.
• Go to the Heritage Museum of Burin.
• Small fishing villages, picturesque coastline drives, and local festivals are examples of hidden gems.
• Discover the distinctive collection of maritime antiques on display at the Marystown Model Ship Gallery.
• See the memorial for the 1929 tsunami in Port au Bras, which serves as a moving reminder.
• Learn about the Atlantic history of the region by visiting the Provincial Seamen’s Museum.
• Admire the antique structures as you stroll along Grand Bank’s historic waterfront.
• Go to the home of George C. Harris.
• Visit St. Lawrence. Discover the history of the town’s mining industry by visiting the St. Lawrence Miner’s Memorial Museum.
• Find more about the terrible USS Truxtun and USS Pollux shipwrecks and the amazing local rescue attempts.

More places and things to do and explore in Newfoundland

• Whale watching tours in Newfoundland in July.
• Book The Most Exciting Whale Watching Tours In Newfoundland.
• The Best Coastal Hiking & Scenic Drives In Newfoundland.
• Get The Best Tasting Authentic Toutons in Newfoundland › Visit Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Iceberg Alley Adventure › Visit Newfoundland and Labrador.

Central Newfoundland (5-7 Days):

• Drive across the heart of the island during your five to seven-day stay in central Newfoundland.
• To discover more about Twillingate’s rich fishing heritage of the area, visit the Prime Berth Fishing Museum.
• Take a boat cruise to observe whales and icebergs (seasonal). These experiences are what Twillingate is known for.

• For stunning views of the coast and photo ops, take a drive to the Long Point Lighthouse.
• Try some of the fruit wines from the area by going to the Auk Island Winery.
• Learn about the Beothuk people’s history by visiting the Boyd’s Cove Beothuk Interpretation Centre.
• Discover the distinctive architecture and artistic scene of Fogo Island.
• Undiscovered Treasures: local berry picking, hiking routes in Terra Nova National Park, and the Boyd’s Cove Beothuk Interpretation Center.

The Western Region (7-10 Days):

• Drive along the Viking Trail.
• Explore Gros Morne National Park (Western Brook Pond boat tour, Tablelands hike).
• Visit L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site (Viking settlement).
• Explore the charming towns of Cow Head and Rocky Harbour.
• Hidden Gems: Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, local seafood restaurants, and craft shops.

Advice for Senior Travelers:

• Take It Slowly: Make sure your itinerary is flexible and includes plenty of break periods.
• Accessibility: Look for characteristics that make lodgings and attractions accessible.
• Convenient Transportation: Make sure your rental automobile is accessible and comfy.
• Make Reservations: Especially during the busiest times of the year, and ask for ground-floor rooms if needed. Bring rain gear, layers, and comfortable walking shoes because the weather in Newfoundland can change suddenly.
• Local Cuisine: Newfoundland offers a variety of traditional cuisines, wild berries, and delectable fish. Look for cafes and restaurants in the area.
• Live Music: Look for traditional Newfoundland music events (commonly referred to as “kitchen parties”) in your
• local listings.
• Farmer Markets: St. John’s Farmers Market and other smaller municipal markets are excellent places to get local food and crafts.
• History: From Viking settlements and fishing traditions to Indigenous cultures, Newfoundland has a rich past.  

Undiscovered Treasures & Local Activities:

Quidi Vidi Village (St. John’s): A quaint fishing community featuring artisan stores and a brewery.

If funds permit, stay at the Fogo Island Inn, a distinctive and opulent experience including exquisite architecture and regional fare.

Local Festivals: Look for events and festivals taking place in your area while you’re there.

Roadside Stands: Stop at roadside stands for fresh berries, jams, and other local products.

“Kitchen Parties”: Seek local pubs and community centers for traditional Newfoundland music sessions.

East Coast Trail: Even if you do not hike long sections, many beautiful short sections are easily accessible.

Local Artisan Shops: many small communities have local artisans who create wonderful crafts.

Remember to be flexible and allow for spontaneous detours. Newfoundland is a place where you can truly connect with nature and experience the warmth of the local people. Enjoy your trip!