The Not-So-Secret Allure of the Southwest Coast
Kickstart your Newfoundland and Labrador adventure the moment you arrive.
This beautiful stretch of the province between Port aux Basques and Gros Morne National Park may be Newfoundland and Labrador’s hidden gem for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration and self-discovery, but the appeal is universal.
Brimming with pristine coastline, soaring mountains and far-flung communities, the Southwest Coast provides exceptional nature viewing, vibrant cultural experiences and off-the-beaten path journeys of a lifetime.
Trails and Terrain
© Dru Kennedy
With more miles of trails and remote roads than anywhere else in Newfoundland, the Southwest Coast offers rugged coastline, backcountry silence and jaw-dropping encounters with nature.
Nowhere else boasts such potential to roam on ATVs, snowmobiles, UTVs or fat bikes, whether you’re hoping to spot a moose in its natural habitat or excited to enjoy a day out in the wilderness with friends and family exploring the outdoors.
Ride the T’Railway where the former Newfoundland train used to run or explore the hundreds of kilometers of interconnected trail systems in between.
The extensive trail system and diverse terrain cater to riders of all styles. Travel deep into gorgeous valleys before ascending to overlook the Atlantic Ocean from the mountaintops.
Guided ATV outings for beginners, self-guided multi-day adventures, as well as accommodations and dining specifically catering to ATVers are all available to you in this rugged adventure haven.
Rare Birds and Wetlands
On the Southwest Coast, you’ll find thousands of acres of protected wetlands. Lush, fertile lands that provide sanctuary for rare birds and other wildlife found nowhere else in the province. Like the Grand Codroy Estuary, Newfoundland’s only wetland to be recognized internationally as an Important Wetland under the Ramsar Convention, and home to Great Blue Herons, ducks, eagles and osprey.
The Port au Port Peninsula offers spectacular views of the cliffs where seabirds nest and the shorelines where they live. Gulls and kittiwakes, shearwaters and gannets patrol our coasts in large numbers. Stephenville offers a variety of excellent habitats year-round.
Guiding services and custom birding tours are available for small groups along the Southwest Coast’s boreal forest, protected wetlands and scenic coastlines.
Sensory Strolls to Multi-day Hikes
© Dru Kennedy
The Southwest Coast offers a variety of world-class walks, from short, leisurely strolls to full-day hikes in the Appalachian Mountains.
Taste the salt spray of the North Atlantic as you trace the coast to experience iconic fishing outports by foot. See highlights like the Rose Blanche lighthouse, a rare granite structure that has guarded the lives of countless sailors over the centuries.
Climb the Starlite Trail overlooking the Wreckhouse for an unparalleled view of the gorges below. You may even see a moose wandering by.
Danny’s Trail, a favourite of visitors and locals alike, includes fossil viewing and a chance to dip your toes in the Atlantic.
On the Port au Port Peninsula, walk the trail at Park-Boutte du Cap to catch a view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
A Vibrant Confluence of Cultures
© Darren Sacrey
This region is home to fascinating and complex history, including influences by French, Scottish, Basque, Mi’kmaq and American communities. It’s where old stories and traditions persist through songs, folktales, museums, heritage sites and annual festivals like the Francophone Festival and the Flat Bay Powwow.
In St. George’s, the old courthouse is home to the K’Taqmkuk Mi’kmaq Historical Museum. Along the French Ancestors Route at Park-Boutte du Cap, savour a fresh bun made in the traditional, outdoor, French bread oven.
Learn from friendly locals and experience modern Indigenous cultures and communities throughout the area.
Ready to plan your trip? Visit southwestcoastnl.ca today.
This article was sponsored by Tourism Southwest
With pristine coastline, soaring mountains, and far-flung communities, the Southwest Coast is Newfoundland and Labrador’s secret adventure.
There are dozens of hidden gems and diversions to visit in this beautiful stretch of the province between Port aux Basques and Gros Morne National Park.
