Annual Leave Explorers

A Long Weekend in St. John’s, Newfoundland: An Adventure Awaits!

If you’re yearning for an adventure like no other, I can’t recommend a trip to St. John’s in Newfoundland enough. Despite its remote charm, it’s incredibly accessible and brimming with unique experiences. I spent five unforgettable days there, but trust me, you could easily spend two weeks soaking in the incredible beauty of the province!

When to Visit:

• July to September: Guaranteed whale sightings, including the majestic humpback whales breaching the water!
• May to July: Marvel at enormous icebergs drifting past the city’s shores.
• Year-Round: One of the most densely populated provinces for moose – keep your eyes peeled!

Accommodation recommendations
1. The Duckworth Inn

2. Water Street Condos

1. The Pubs and Bars: St. John’s is a quaint city where everything you need is within walking distance. Getting “screeched in” is a must-do tourist activity. While most bars offer this, I highly recommend O’Reilly’s. It’s cheaper than the more popular spots, and you can drop in anytime without a reservation.

2. Whale and Wildlife Watching: The highlight of my trip was the puffin colonies. Watching these adorable birds waddle around the cliff tops was heartwarming. I highly recommend O’Brien’s Boat Tours for a fantastic whale watching experience. They’ll also take you to the largest puffin colony in North America. Bonus: O’Brien serenades you with traditional sea shanties on the way, and there’s even a bar on the boat!

3. Stunning Scenery: Newfoundland’s rugged coastline is a sight to behold. There are plenty of hikes starting right from the city, leading into the mountains with breathtaking views. If you hike up to the large fort, you might spot an eagle’s nest and, if you’re lucky, see baby chicks without disturbing them.

4. Quidi Vidi: A short, picturesque walk from St. John’s takes you to the charming fishing village of Quidi Vidi. Enjoy fishing trips, visit the local brewery overlooking the water, and experience the friendly locals firsthand – we ended up chatting with a local in his garage for ages!

5. Day Trip to Dildo: Yes, you read that right! Rent a car and take a day trip to Dildo. The town boasts a fantastic brewery with views over the water. Along the way, you’ll find numerous cute bays and coves perfect for a quick stop.

Travel Tips: There are plenty of affordable direct flights to St. John’s from across North America and Europe, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway. No need to burn all your annual leave for this adventure!

I can’t wait to return and explore even more of Newfoundland. There’s so much more to see and do, so make sure you have a bit more time on your hands for your visit!

Happy travels!