The Essential Twillingate Itinerary; Hiking, Icebergs, Whales and Art
Known as the iceberg capital of the world, Twillingate Newfoundland is a quaint region full of beautiful outdoor hiking trails, unique artisans, quintessential east coast cuisine and spectacular natural wonders. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the warm and inviting Newfoundland culture and be inspired by spectacular landscapes and wonderful people, then a road trip through Twillingate is a must. Get some ideas for your next Newfoundland adventure with our 4-day itinerary complete with the best things to see and do in Twillingate.
Day 1 – Fresh Seafood, Scenic Lookouts and Indigenous history
Start your adventure in Gander, the best jumping off point for a Twillingate road trip. Stock up on provisions, fill up the tank, pick up any last-minute essentials, and then hit the road early and start the 1.5-hour journey north to Twillingate.
When you reach the small hamlet of Boyd’s Cove, make a quick detour to the Beothuk Interpretation Centre Provincial Historic Site. Visit inside the Interpretation Centre and learn about the Beothuk village that once thrived there over 300 years ago. Then stretch your legs on the 1.5 km walking trail where you’ll pass a rare archaeological site showcasing the outlines of house pits from the village. Don’t miss the beautiful Spirit of the Beothuk sculpture, stop to learn about native plants along the way, and leave a hand-made token in the Spirit Garden (using natural materials provided from the Interpretation Centre).
Pull back onto the road and look for a colourful sign on your left marking the small parking lot of the Friday’s Bay Lookout Trail. This 1.4 km out-and-back trail near Fairbanks-Hillgrade is a great trail leading to a panoramic lookout point. As an off-the-beaten-path spot, you’ll likely have the trail, and the view, all to yourself.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, a stop for fresh caught seafood is the best way to dive into the Newfoundland culinary scene. Arguably the best lobster restaurant in the region, Doyle Sansome & Sons is just a short detour off the highway, and well worth the diversion. With a live lobster pool just steps away from the kitchen, and with the day’s catch being hauled up beside your dockside table, seafood doesn’t get much fresher than this! Lobster is their specialty, and we highly recommend ordering a full lobster dinner. If you need some help with digging into your dinner, not to worry; there are handy step-by-step instructions on your plate to make sure you take advantage of every tasty morsel of your meal. If lobster isn’t your thing, other delicacies like fresh caught mussels, fish and chips, cod nuggets, squid rings and seafood chowder are also great options.
Pull back onto the highway with your belly full, and continue on for the short drive 15-minute drive into Twillingate. Watch the sunset as you pass along Shoal Tickle Bridge, and then snuggle into your cozy accommodation for the night.
Day 2 – Spectacular Viewpoints, Local Artisans and Hometown Eats
While some come for the icebergs, east coast landscapes and outdoor adventure, Twillingate’s art community is certainly one worth exploring. Start your day in downtown Twillingate on foot and visit the Twillingate Museum and Craft shop for a look into Twillingate’s history, and to pick up locally made handicrafts, many hand made by artisans from Twillingate. Browse through a beautiful selection of jewelry, hand-made quilts, jams and syrups, Mummer Dolls, soapstone carvings and delicate knits.
Continue on foot down Main St. and look for an unassuming yellow and red house, home to the Ted Stuckless Fine Art Gallery (as known as the Driftwood Gallery). One of Newfoundland’s famous painters Ted Stuckless’ stunning paintings depict iconic Newfoundland scenes, both past and present. Get inspired by his beautiful work, and pick out a special piece to take home.
As you venture further south, aim your sights at the giant lobster trap where you’ll find Scot’s Pencil Art studio. Check out his intricate pencil art illustrating iconic symbols of Newfoundland, from landscapes to wildlife. Some prints even come with frames made from upcycled wooden lobster traps! The gallery also showcases art from other local artists including homemade jams, sand art and moose bone carvings.
One final must-stop for art and shopping in Twillingate is the Artisan Market. Showcasing over 100 artisans from across the province (and a handful from Nova Scotia), there is no better way to support local makers. Browse their extensive selection of arts, crafts and locally made products, from coffee and soaps, to pottery and hand-woven treasures.
Learn more about local artisans and the best place to shop with our complete guide to shopping and art galleries in Twillingate.
Wrap up your purchases and hit the road north to one of the best lunch spots on the island, the Crow’s Nest Café. Located in nearby Crow head, this adorable family-owned café serves up healthy and hearty lunch fare and some seriously delicious baked goods and coffee. Fill up on homemade soup and a tasty sandwich, and treat yourself with a rich chocolaty brownie, ginger molasses cookies (our favourite!) and grab a specialty latte for the road.
Hit the road and head to the northwest headland of North Twillingate Island for one of the best viewpoints at the historic Long Point Lighthouse. A treasured symbol of the community, the brick lighthouse was built in 1876, and later encased in reinforced-concrete in 1929. Situated 331 feet above sea level, the sweeping views of the harbour from the lighthouse and surrounding lookout points are stunning. On a foggy day, the sound of the fog horn sounding with waves lapping at the bottom of majestic cliffs creates a truly magical experience. If you’re looking to explore the area further there are hiking trails leading east from the lighthouse, and several routes leading down to the bottom of the cliffs. Be sure to pop inside the lighthouse for look around, and drop into the Lightkeeper’s Fudgery and Gift Shop at the edge of the parking lot to pick up a souvenir from your visit.
Finish the day with a lively evening at the Twillingate-New world Island Dinner Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Twillingate. Enjoy traditional Newfie music and funny skits as you chow down on a scrumptious meal of lobster, cod, or salmon with a pint of local suds. They also offer non-seafood, gluten free and kid friendly option catering to those with dietary preferences, making it the perfect night out for any visitor.
Day 3 –Icebergs, Whales, Secluded Coves and Local Cuisine
There is no more quintessential image of Newfoundland, than giant icebergs floating past colourful coastal villages, and whales’ tails on the horizon. Iceberg season generally runs from mid-May to mid-June, and depends entirely on ocean currents of that particular year. If you’re lucky, you may be visiting while one of these mammoth ice structures gently floats into the harbour, visible from the shore. However, the best way to get an up-close look at these frosty beauties in on a local boat tour. There are several local outfitters offering tours in an assortment of boats (from small zodiacs to larger fishing boats) including Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours, Twillingate Adventure Tours and Iceberg Man Tours. Whale watching season runs from mid-May to September, so if you’re travelling outside of iceberg season, a boat tour is still worthwhile for the chance of seeing these grand sea creatures.
After a morning on the water, head to one of our favourite restaurants in Twillingate, Annie’s Harbour Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious oceanside lunch in their glass enclosed dining room, or if weather permits, on their lovely outdoor patio. Choose from a wide selection of homemade meals, including Newfoundland classics like cod-au-gratin, juicy moose burgers and mouthwatering lobster rolls.
Hit the road and head to south Twillingate Island towards beautiful French Beach. On the way you’ll pass by classic Newfoundland scenery with colourful fishing huts and lobster traps lining the shoreline. It’s a p picture perfect photo op, so be sure to pull over for some pics. When you see the small parking lot at the intersection of Blow Me Down Lane, you’ve arrived at the beginning of the French Beach trailhead. This trail leads you along a steep clifftop to a spectacular view of French Beach below. Watch for icebergs and whales offshore, and then climb down to explore the large seaweed strewn pebbled beach. The trail to reach French beach is approximately 20 minutes on way, however those wanting a more rigorous hike can continue on to the 6km loop to Spiller’s Cove. While demanding, the Spiller’s Cove hike provides jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastline, cool sea stacks, and scenic coastal headlands.
Once back at the car, knock the dirt off your hiking shoes and head to the nearby Auk Island Winery. This unique winery produces over 20 varieties of wine made from local, handpicked berries and iceberg water! Enjoy a wine tour and tasting, have a meal in their cozy restaurant, pick up some Newfoundland souvenirs, and try one of their specialties, wine ice cream! The names of their wines will give you a chuckle, so be sure to pick up a bottle of 3 Sheets to the Wind, Fifty shades of Bay, Frig Off, Moose Joose or Kiss Me Arse, for your next dinner party.
When dinner time rolls around, it’s time to further indulge in Twillingate’s culinary scene. Grab a table at Pier 39 or the Canvas Cove Bistro for great local seafood and palate pleasing dishes in an elegant setting, or head to Split Rock Brewing and the Stage Head Pub for satisfying pub fare and a pint of Twillingate’s iconic local brews.
Day 4 – Maritime Heritage, Fishing Culture, Picnics and Hikes
Shake off the cobwebs and wake up early to catch a classic Twillingate sunrise, and watch fishing boats heading in and out of the harbour with their daily catch. Stop at the Cozy Team Room and Bakery for a homemade breakfast, or lunch for the road, or whip through the tiny and adorable Crow’s Nest drive through in town for a caffeine fix for the road.
As you head out of town, be sure to stop at the Prime Berth Twillingate Fishery & Heritage Centre, located directly before the causeway off of the island. This fantastic interpretive fishing center and craft studio was created by David Boyd as a tribute to the local fishing community and captures the rich maritime character of the region. Take a selfie with the only fully reconstructed sei whale skeleton in Canada, watch a cod splitting show, take a self-guided or guided tour, and explore fascinating maritime artifacts, some dating back over 100 years. They also offer fishing tours if you’re looking for a hands-on experience.
Hit the tarmac south towards Gander and stop for a picnic lunch and a chance to stretch your legs at the Summerford Hiking Trail. The quaint 1km trail leads you through a beautiful forest and past a small pond. You’ll find beautifully painted birdhouse along the trail, as well as colourful rocks scattered along the path. This tranquil spot is a hidden gem, and you’ll likely have the forest and picnic area all to yourself.
Great memories and photos in tow, enjoy the smooth drive back to Gander while you reminisce on a great adventure in beautiful Twillingate, Newfoundland.
How to get to Twillingate
There are daily flights into the small airport in Gander (YQX). Airlines that fly into Gander are primarily Air Canada, WestJet and Pal Airlines. If you’re arriving from other areas of the province by car, Gander is easily accessible via the TransCanada highway, and is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from St. John and 3-hour drive from Deer Lake.
Car Rentals in Gander
There are several car rental companies located directly in Gander airport. There are also several off-airport locations as well. We strongly recommend booking your car rental at least 3 months in advance, especially if the airport location is your preference. Apart from larger group tours, travelling independently by car is the primary way to explore the area.
Where to Stay in Twillingate
There are many options for accommodation in Twillingate, from hotels, inns and bnb’s, to cabins, cottages and campgrounds. Accommodation books up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so we recommend making your booking well in advance.
For a list of places to stay click here. There are also many lovely Air Bnbs in the area for those looking for more equipped accommodation or flexibility in terms of location.
