Newfoundland Adventurer Self Drive
14 days
Enjoyable for all in reasonable health.
Quality transportation and accommodation in an uncommon environment, with the chance of occasional slight discomfort. E.g. an arctic polar bear tour
Trip Overview |
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Itinerary |
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Accommodation |
Newfoundland is one of Canada’s hidden gems, there is no predictable photo opportunity or sightseeing train here to attract the crowds. Instead you will find an island filled with history and nature.
Discover North America’s oldest English-settled town and a coastline teeming with whales, dolphins and sea birds on Canada vacation packages to Newfoundland.
You will find some truly extraordinary sights - have you ever seen a horizon filled with passing 1000 year old icebergs?
Self-drive vacations in Canada are for the more independent traveler. Fresh Tracks provides the car, the accommodation and guided kayaking and hiking trips along the way, you provide the spirit of adventure.
Discover North America’s oldest English-settled town and a coastline teeming with whales, dolphins and sea birds on Canada vacation packages to Newfoundland.
You will find some truly extraordinary sights - have you ever seen a horizon filled with passing 1000 year old icebergs?
Self-drive vacations in Canada are for the more independent traveler. Fresh Tracks provides the car, the accommodation and guided kayaking and hiking trips along the way, you provide the spirit of adventure.
Outline
3 nights St. John’s
2 nights Twillingate
3 nights Gros Morne National Park
1 night Gander
3 nights Clarenville
1 night St. John’s
3 nights St. John’s
2 nights Twillingate
3 nights Gros Morne National Park
1 night Gander
3 nights Clarenville
1 night St. John’s
ITINERARY
Day 1 Eastern Canada Vacation Packages Bring you to St. Johns
St. Johns is the oldest English-founded settlement in North America. The town started as a safe-haven for fishermen, carved from the granite coast of the Avalon Peninsula. These days it is a local economic success, due to Maritime research and the location of offshore natural resources. However the city has retained its charm, the multicolored streets and friendly locals provide a warm welcome to visitors.
Day 2 Witless Bay Sea Kayaking on Vacations in Canada
Take to the ocean with a local outfitter of 30 years experience, to see whales and explore the coast. Explore the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, where you will kayak alongside whales, inside caves and under waterfalls. Today's adventure is a classic on Canada vacation packages!
Day 3 Coastal Guided Hikes
If you love coastal hiking and love to avoid the crowds this Canada adventure is perfect for you. Traverse from village to village snuggled along the spectacular coastline. Snacks are served (included in vacation packages) atop a 250 foot sea stack meadow, as thousands of puffins and other seabirds glide effortlessly around you. Out to sea thousand year old icebergs drift by and Humpback whales blow spurts of water into the clear air.
Day 4 St. John’s to Twillingate
Newfoundland vacation packages take you along the Trans-Canada Highway tracing Conception Bay. Pass through Terra Nova National Park, long fingers of the island boreal forest stretch out into the Atlantic Ocean and the spectacular landscape varies from rugged cliffs to sheltered headlands. Continue to Gander, once a major stop over point for propellor-driven transatlantic airplane flights. Take in the breathtaking scenic views and charming fishing villages on vacations in Canada.
Day 5 Twillingate Iceberg Cruise
Citizens of Twillingate claim their town to be the Iceberg Capital of the World - those on vacation packages here will see for themselves. Head out to sea on a whale watching tour in the iceberg corridor. Cruise along some of the most beautiful coastlines in Newfoundland, an area populated by humpback whales, minkes, dolphins, harp seals, as well as a variety of sea birds.
Day 6 Explore Gros Morne on Vacations in Canada
Start out along the ‘Road to the Isles’ an excellent vantage point for observing icebergs as they drift across the Notre Dame Bay, as late as August. Gros Morne National park was declared a United Nations World Heritage Site in 1987 and preserves a diverse array of plants and wildlife. Waterfalls, marine inlets, sea stacks, sandy beaches, and colorful nearby fishing villages make this a fascinating place to visit.
Day 7 Gros Morne National Park Sea Kayaking And Beach Picnic
Explore the fjords and high cliffs of Bonne Bay on your Canada vacation. Famous for its spectacular volcanic coastline, the shore is dotted with sea stacks, caves and home to an abundance of marine life. Sightings include whales, seals and seabirds. Improve your sea kayaking skills as you navigate the coast line and work up an appetite. Packages include a tasty picnic on the beach.
Day 8 Experience the Tablelands on Vacations in Canada
The Tablelands portion of the national park was formed when the continents of Africa and North America collided, pushing the rocks you see now up from the ocean floor. Diverse scenery is provided by boreal forest and the fertile volcanic sea coast - an array of sea stacks, coves, and beaches topped off with lush cliff-top meadows filled with wildflowers. The day is led by naturalist guides and offers a great opportunity to see wildlife and unravel the mysteries of Gros Morne’s geology.
Day 9 See Beautiful Gander on your Canada Vacation
Head south and join the Trans - Canada highway at Deer Lake, before heading towards the tiny fishing communities that punctuate the coast of the Notre Dame Bay.
Kings Point lies to the north of the main highway and is a perfect example of a local fishing community. Browse a pottery gallery or walk a section of the Alexander Murray Trail for views across Green Bay. The hike was named for Alexander Murray, the first director of the Geological Survey of Newfoundland (1864-1883) who wrote about the area: ‘ To anyone in search of the picturesque, this great inlet has many rare attractions, in the varying outline and diversified scenery’.
On arrival in Gander visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum which displays an interesting variety of aeronautic artifacts. Aircraft include bombers, military prototypes and cargo planes used in the exploration of remote Canada.
Day 10 Explore Clarenville on Eastern Canada Vacation Packages
En route to Clarenville, make sure to experience the tranquility and wildlife of Terra Nova National Park. Hike through pristine wilderness and observe minke, pilot and humpback whales close to shore. Dolphins and orcas can be seen cruising Bonavista Bay from the hills and deserted beaches. Head into the coastal wetlands and interior forests to see moose, black bears and foxes.
Day 11 Hike Shoal Harbour Trail or Buckley Cove Trail in Terra Nova Park
All Fresh Tracks Canada Vacation Packages are customizable. Choose to hike one of these beautiful parks:
The Shoal Harbour Causeway Walking Trail is a popular trail and pedestrian bridge parallel to the causeway in Shoal Harbour. A set of steps leading to two viewing decks overlook beautiful Random Sound, with story boards depicting the heritage and nature of the area. An asphalt walking trail continues from the pedestrian bridge to Hunts Hill. Picnic tables make the perfect stop and benches, flower boxes and hanging baskets are placed along the loop.
The Buckley Cove Trail is accessible from the Visitor Information Centre parking lot at Salton's Brook. The trail winds through forest and across boardwalks as you make your way along the coast to Buckley Cove. Here you can look for the rare greater yellowlegs feeding along the barachois. Things to see along the way include orchids, a view of Mt. Stamford and maybe even a lynx.
Day 12 All aboard the Coastal Explorer
Join the fully certified and equipped research boat, MV Coastal Explorer. Vacations in Canada give you the opportunity to observe first hand the beauty and diversity of the coastal marine ecosystem, from plankton, fish and seabirds to the great whales of Newfoundland. During this ‘hands-on’ investigation use a variety of sampling equipment, examine specimens under the microscope and perhaps even catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales in their natural setting.
Meet the local Newfoundlanders who make their living from the sea, and learn how the preservation of marine natural resources depends on their being understood and appreciated.
Day 13 Return to St. John’s
The final part of your Canada self-drive vacation takes you along the Trans-Canada Highway to Conception Bay and views of the Avalon Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean. The frequent mist lends a mystical aura to these parks and villages as you look back over your journey of discovery in Newfoundland.
Day 14 Depart St. Johns
Vacations in Canada are never long enough! Drop your car at the Airport and check in for your flight home.
Day 1 Eastern Canada Vacation Packages Bring you to St. Johns
St. Johns is the oldest English-founded settlement in North America. The town started as a safe-haven for fishermen, carved from the granite coast of the Avalon Peninsula. These days it is a local economic success, due to Maritime research and the location of offshore natural resources. However the city has retained its charm, the multicolored streets and friendly locals provide a warm welcome to visitors.
Day 2 Witless Bay Sea Kayaking on Vacations in Canada
Take to the ocean with a local outfitter of 30 years experience, to see whales and explore the coast. Explore the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, where you will kayak alongside whales, inside caves and under waterfalls. Today's adventure is a classic on Canada vacation packages!
Day 3 Coastal Guided Hikes
If you love coastal hiking and love to avoid the crowds this Canada adventure is perfect for you. Traverse from village to village snuggled along the spectacular coastline. Snacks are served (included in vacation packages) atop a 250 foot sea stack meadow, as thousands of puffins and other seabirds glide effortlessly around you. Out to sea thousand year old icebergs drift by and Humpback whales blow spurts of water into the clear air.
Day 4 St. John’s to Twillingate
Newfoundland vacation packages take you along the Trans-Canada Highway tracing Conception Bay. Pass through Terra Nova National Park, long fingers of the island boreal forest stretch out into the Atlantic Ocean and the spectacular landscape varies from rugged cliffs to sheltered headlands. Continue to Gander, once a major stop over point for propellor-driven transatlantic airplane flights. Take in the breathtaking scenic views and charming fishing villages on vacations in Canada.
Day 5 Twillingate Iceberg Cruise
Citizens of Twillingate claim their town to be the Iceberg Capital of the World - those on vacation packages here will see for themselves. Head out to sea on a whale watching tour in the iceberg corridor. Cruise along some of the most beautiful coastlines in Newfoundland, an area populated by humpback whales, minkes, dolphins, harp seals, as well as a variety of sea birds.
Day 6 Explore Gros Morne on Vacations in Canada
Start out along the ‘Road to the Isles’ an excellent vantage point for observing icebergs as they drift across the Notre Dame Bay, as late as August. Gros Morne National park was declared a United Nations World Heritage Site in 1987 and preserves a diverse array of plants and wildlife. Waterfalls, marine inlets, sea stacks, sandy beaches, and colorful nearby fishing villages make this a fascinating place to visit.
Day 7 Gros Morne National Park Sea Kayaking And Beach Picnic
Explore the fjords and high cliffs of Bonne Bay on your Canada vacation. Famous for its spectacular volcanic coastline, the shore is dotted with sea stacks, caves and home to an abundance of marine life. Sightings include whales, seals and seabirds. Improve your sea kayaking skills as you navigate the coast line and work up an appetite. Packages include a tasty picnic on the beach.
Day 8 Experience the Tablelands on Vacations in Canada
The Tablelands portion of the national park was formed when the continents of Africa and North America collided, pushing the rocks you see now up from the ocean floor. Diverse scenery is provided by boreal forest and the fertile volcanic sea coast - an array of sea stacks, coves, and beaches topped off with lush cliff-top meadows filled with wildflowers. The day is led by naturalist guides and offers a great opportunity to see wildlife and unravel the mysteries of Gros Morne’s geology.
Day 9 See Beautiful Gander on your Canada Vacation
Head south and join the Trans - Canada highway at Deer Lake, before heading towards the tiny fishing communities that punctuate the coast of the Notre Dame Bay.
Kings Point lies to the north of the main highway and is a perfect example of a local fishing community. Browse a pottery gallery or walk a section of the Alexander Murray Trail for views across Green Bay. The hike was named for Alexander Murray, the first director of the Geological Survey of Newfoundland (1864-1883) who wrote about the area: ‘ To anyone in search of the picturesque, this great inlet has many rare attractions, in the varying outline and diversified scenery’.
On arrival in Gander visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum which displays an interesting variety of aeronautic artifacts. Aircraft include bombers, military prototypes and cargo planes used in the exploration of remote Canada.
Day 10 Explore Clarenville on Eastern Canada Vacation Packages
En route to Clarenville, make sure to experience the tranquility and wildlife of Terra Nova National Park. Hike through pristine wilderness and observe minke, pilot and humpback whales close to shore. Dolphins and orcas can be seen cruising Bonavista Bay from the hills and deserted beaches. Head into the coastal wetlands and interior forests to see moose, black bears and foxes.
Day 11 Hike Shoal Harbour Trail or Buckley Cove Trail in Terra Nova Park
All Fresh Tracks Canada Vacation Packages are customizable. Choose to hike one of these beautiful parks:
The Shoal Harbour Causeway Walking Trail is a popular trail and pedestrian bridge parallel to the causeway in Shoal Harbour. A set of steps leading to two viewing decks overlook beautiful Random Sound, with story boards depicting the heritage and nature of the area. An asphalt walking trail continues from the pedestrian bridge to Hunts Hill. Picnic tables make the perfect stop and benches, flower boxes and hanging baskets are placed along the loop.
The Buckley Cove Trail is accessible from the Visitor Information Centre parking lot at Salton's Brook. The trail winds through forest and across boardwalks as you make your way along the coast to Buckley Cove. Here you can look for the rare greater yellowlegs feeding along the barachois. Things to see along the way include orchids, a view of Mt. Stamford and maybe even a lynx.
Day 12 All aboard the Coastal Explorer
Join the fully certified and equipped research boat, MV Coastal Explorer. Vacations in Canada give you the opportunity to observe first hand the beauty and diversity of the coastal marine ecosystem, from plankton, fish and seabirds to the great whales of Newfoundland. During this ‘hands-on’ investigation use a variety of sampling equipment, examine specimens under the microscope and perhaps even catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales in their natural setting.
Meet the local Newfoundlanders who make their living from the sea, and learn how the preservation of marine natural resources depends on their being understood and appreciated.
Day 13 Return to St. John’s
The final part of your Canada self-drive vacation takes you along the Trans-Canada Highway to Conception Bay and views of the Avalon Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean. The frequent mist lends a mystical aura to these parks and villages as you look back over your journey of discovery in Newfoundland.
Day 14 Depart St. Johns
Vacations in Canada are never long enough! Drop your car at the Airport and check in for your flight home.
Options & Upgrades
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
- Cross by ferry to Prince Edward Island and spend a few nights exploring the countryside and historic cities
Accommodation
Inns, B&B’s and standard hotels
Inns, B&B’s and standard hotels
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Dates + Prices |
HIGHLIGHTS
- Picturesque Atlantic villages
- Explore Newfoundland by kayak, boat and on foot
- Experience the life of the locals
- Untouched wilderness and the freshest seafood
Testimonials
My parents had a wonderful trip. They have now returned to the UK brimming with fabulous memories and addresses of new found friends. Thank you so very much for making this so special for them. I will have no hesitation but to recommend you to all of our friends for their adventures.
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2009 Package Start Dates
Wednesdays and Saturdays June 15th to September 15th
Price Notes
• Prices are per person based on two people occupying a room
Includes
• 13 nights accommodation in B&B’s, Inns and standard hotels
• 13 days Intermediate Car rental
• 200 km’s per day, extra km’s charged at $0.20 per km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Airport surcharges and fees where applicable
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Full day sea-kayaking suitable for all
• Full day naturalist-led hike
• Iceberg Cruise excursion
• Gros Morne full day kayaking
• Table lands guided hike
• Day of discovery boat trip - a hand’s on experience of the sea life led by local marine scientists
Not Included
• Airport transfers
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals and attractions unless otherwise specified
• Park entrance fees
• Entrance to the Gander Aviation Museum ($5)
• Bridge tolls
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST
Wednesdays and Saturdays June 15th to September 15th
| twin price per person | USD $ | CAD $ |
| Jun 15 2009 - Sep 15 2009 | 2,677 | 3,025 |
• Prices are per person based on two people occupying a room
Includes
• 13 nights accommodation in B&B’s, Inns and standard hotels
• 13 days Intermediate Car rental
• 200 km’s per day, extra km’s charged at $0.20 per km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Airport surcharges and fees where applicable
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Full day sea-kayaking suitable for all
• Full day naturalist-led hike
• Iceberg Cruise excursion
• Gros Morne full day kayaking
• Table lands guided hike
• Day of discovery boat trip - a hand’s on experience of the sea life led by local marine scientists
Not Included
• Airport transfers
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals and attractions unless otherwise specified
• Park entrance fees
• Entrance to the Gander Aviation Museum ($5)
• Bridge tolls
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST
