ITINERARY. Accommodation: Marble Inn Resort (2 nights) Meals: D

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2 ITINERARY Accommodation: Marble Inn Resort (2 nights) Meals: D Day 2: Corner Brook Today we enjoy time hiking in the magnificent Bay of Islands and Blow Me Down Provincial Park. Both have long been popular destinations for residents and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the natural attractions and historic sites. The island of Newfoundland, in Canada s easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is Canada s fourth largest island. The province has a reputation for its friendliness; you ll soon see why. It has a rich history and a unique culture, both products of its indigenous and immigrant heritage. Indigenous groups have lived in the province for thousands of years; Vikings came in the 11 th century and later Europeans came too. The English colony of St John s is one of the oldest cities in the continent of North America. The province was under British rule until 1949 when it united with Canada. Newfoundland s shores are dotted with colourful fishing huts and windswept beaches, backed by soaring mountains, forests and lakes. On your journey across this island you will marvel at glaciers, discover ancient rock formations, delight at the wildlife and walk through the impressive UNESCO sites of Gros Morne National Park and historic L Anse-aux-Meadows. Part and full-day walks with sightseeing. Walks of up to 9 miles (14½km) with up to 1,350 feet (400m) of ascent. Day 1: Arrival in Deer Lake and on to Corner Brook We arrive in St John s and fly to Deer Lake where we meet our local leader and transfer to our accommodation. The beautiful towns of Lark Harbour and York Harbour are home to breath-taking scenery and offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Bay of Islands area. This morning we stretch our legs on the James Cook Heritage Trail in the provincial park. This scenic trail offers stunning views over Lark Harbour and commemorates the exploration of the area by James Cook. Distance: 2 miles (3 km) with 750 feet (230 m) of ascent. It may be possible to add an additional short hike to visit Lark Harbour. Distance: 2 miles (3km) with 350 feet (110m) of ascent. We then explore the Bottle Cove Trail and visit the 2 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

3 Captain Cook monument. Distance: 1 mile (1½km) with 100 feet (30m) of ascent. We return to Corner Brook, where we visit the Captain James Cook historic site for impressive views over the city and to the Blomidon Mountains. This afternoon we walk sections of the Steam Trail; possibilities include: Glynmill Inn Point Trail a loop trail to visit wetlands with possibilities of bird sightings. Distance: 1 mile (1½km) with 50 feet (15m) of ascent. Three Bear Mountain Trail enjoy panoramic views of the city, Bay of Islands and nearby mountains on this loop trail. Distance: 1 mile (1½km) with 100 feet (30m) of ascent. Corner Brook Gorge Trail a loop trail through woodland offering many scenic lookouts. Distance: 2½ miles (4km) with 300 feet (100m) of ascent. There are some short but steep sections. More recent glacial action here has resulted in some spectacular scenery, with coastal lowland, alpine plateau, fjords, glacial valleys, sheer cliffs, waterfalls and many pristine lakes. Our first walk today will be in the Bonne Bay area. One option is the Lookout trail, which leads us to one of the best panoramic vistas in the park. We climb steadily through forest, emerging from the trees onto a highland plateau where we can enjoy spectacular views of Bonne Bay, Gros Morne Mountain, the Tablelands and the Lookout Hills. Distance: 3 miles (5km) loop with up to 1,350 feet (400m) of ascent and some steep sections. Alternatively, we follow the Tableland trail, which follows an old roadbed as it skirts the base of Gros Morne Mountain; the evidence of continental drift is abundant. Distance: 2 ½ miles (4km) with negligible ascent. Meals: B, L, D Day 3: Gros Morne National Park Bonne Bay area After breakfast we drive to the ruggedly beautiful Gros Morne National Park. The area is a designated UNESCO site in recognition of its significant geological importance, and the park provides a rare example of the process of continental drift, where deep ocean crust and the rocks of the earth s mantle lie exposed. If time allows, we ll do both walks. After lunch at Woody Point, we travel to Norris Point, our base for the next three nights. Depending on the time of year, we may have the option to cross the beautiful Bonne Bay by ferry to reach Norris Point may be possible. Depending on the weather and time of our arrival, we may be able to take a short walk on the Burnt Hill trail to give us a good introduction to the area. Accommodation: Neddies Harbour Inn (3 nights) Meals: B, L, D 3 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

4 Day 4: Gros Morne National Park Trout River Today s walk takes us to the community of Trout River. We follow the Trout River Pond trail, where we ll be greeted by magnificent views of The Narrows, where the two ponds meet. Distance: 9 miles (14½km) with 500 feet (150m) of ascent. The scenery is a superb contrast of classic glacial valleys with wooded slopes on one side, and the exposed bare, red rock of the earth s mantle on the other. This is an area where caribou can sometimes be found, so keep a look out as you walk. The last section of the trail runs over coastal bog and through tuckamore forest until it reaches the beach just before Bakers Brook. There is a wide variety of plant and animal life along the trail; you might even be lucky enough to come upon a moose or elk grazing on new shoots. Meals: B, L, D We then follow the Western Brook Pond trail to the pond s shores. This pond is in fact a long, narrow land-locked fjord carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age. The sheer cliffs can reach a height of over 2,000 feet and plunge almost 550 feet below the surface of the water. Distance: 4 miles (6½km) with little ascent. Day 5: Gros Morne National Park Today we head to a location that needs little introduction, as it is the scene you will see on any picture of the national park: a beautiful fjord backed by the cliffs and grandeur of the Long Range Mountains. We stop at Green Point for a walk along the old winter mail road, a coastal route between Baker s Brook and Green Point. The trail once connected two small fishing communities and takes you by cobble beaches and through short but dense coastal forests, known locally as tuckamore. This is a Newfoundland word for the stunted trees that grow along the coast and in alpine areas; frost and wind nip back the trees exposed branches, giving them their wind-swept profile. Distance: 2 miles (3km) with little ascent. The trail crosses coastal bogs and low forested limestone ridges over gentle terrain and boardwalks, offering spectacular views towards the pond. If time allows, we may also have the option of enjoying a two-hour boat tour on the fjord (CA$70.00 pp, payable locally). Meals: B, L, D Day 6: to St. Anthony We travel north through the Great Northern Peninsula to St. Anthony. This is a long journey, but we break it up with some stops along the coast, overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence. We hike along the River of Ponds hiking trail, which runs along one of the greatest salmon rivers in Newfoundland. Distance: 2 miles (3km) with negligible ascent. We continue to Bird Cove and the Dog Peninsula, where we visit the 4 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

5 50 Centuries Interpretation Centre and walk along nearby trails. Bird Cove offers an incredible and unforgettable experience. For over 500 years, the area has provided rich resources from the land and sea for a diverse range of people. Prehistoric and historic occupants came to utilize the areas diverse and natural resources. Archaeological digs have shed light on the various people and their way of life. While hiking along the trails and shorelines of the Dog Peninsula, you may well find archaeological artefacts left behind by early European settlers. We continue to St. Anthony, arriving in the late afternoon at our centrally located accommodation which overlooks the harbour. Accommodation: Hotel North, St. Anthony (3 nights) Meals: B, L, D Day 7: St. Anthony The town of St. Anthony has a long history of European settlement, dating back to the early 16 th century. It is now a popular destination to visit nearby historic sites or to see natural attractions such as whales or icebergs. glaciers of western Greenland; others from glaciers in Canada s Arctic. Today s walk possibilities start from Fishing Point Park. This area is the place for walkers in St. Anthony locals and tourists alike and offer opportunities for spotting whales and icebergs: Santana Trail this trail includes over 450 steps but the view of the Newfoundland coast and Atlantic Ocean from the top is both mesmerizing and worth the effort. Distance: 1 mile (1½km) with 300 feet (100m) of ascent. Cartier View Trail leads to a look-out over the harbour and the surrounding cliffs. The view is particularly beautiful at sunset, so you may wish to return later in the day independently. Distance: ½ mile (1km) with negligible ascent. Iceberg Alley Trail a boardwalk trail starting at the lighthouse, which affords great views of the passing icebergs (in season late spring and early summer). Distance: ½ mile (1km) with negligible ascent. Whale Watchers Trail another boardwalk trail with steps, which leads to an amazing lookout point over the Atlantic Ocean and, during the whale season, of the passing giants of the ocean. Distance: ½ mile (1km) with 50 feet (15m) of ascent. The well-known Iceberg Alley, which stretches from the coast of Labrador to the southeast cost of the island of Newfoundland, is one of the best places in the world to see these glacial giants. Many have come from the This afternoon enjoy time at leisure to discover the town of St. Anthony further perhaps 5 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

6 explore more trails independently, visit a museum or spend more time looking for whales and icebergs. Meals: B, D Day 8: L Anse-aux-Meadows We travel along the northern section of the Viking Trail to the historic site of L Anse-aux- Meadows, where Leif Eriksson and his crew are believed to have landed. Re-discovered in 1960, it is currently the only certain site of a Norse or Viking settlement in North America; it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Located on the northernmost tip of the island, its current name comes from the French L Anse-aux-Méduses, which translates as Jellyfish Cove. It dates to c. 1,000 CE; hence the strong connection to Leif Eriksson, who came to the area around this time as described in Old Norse sagas and attempted to establish the colony of Vinland in the region. We ll visit the historic site before walking to the nearby Norstead Viking Village. Depending on which trail we take, we may have the opportunity to climb a small hill which affords us panoramic views of our surroundings. Distance: up to 1 ½ miles (2½km) with negligible ascent. Meals: B, L, D Day 9: to Deer Lake We return south, via the Viking Trail, to Deer Lake. Along the way, we ll stop to enjoy a hike at the John Hogan Trail: John Hogan Trail at Hawke s Bay Starting at a nature park, this boardwalk trail meanders along the Torrent River to the Torrent River Salmon Interpretation Centre where we can spot Atlantic salmon as they migrate to their spawning grounds. Distance: 4 miles (6km) with 150 feet (50m) of ascent. Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express, Deer Lake (1 night) Meals: B, L, D Day 10: to Clarenville We begin to make our way south today towards St. John s, stopping overnight in Clarenville. Today s journey is another long one, but we stop en-route to stretch our legs on the Alexander Murray Trail. The trail can be quite challenging and lots of steps, but the views from the ridgeline and the summit make it absolutely worth the effort! There are breath-taking views from the top of Green Bay and the Gaff Topsails, and along the way we ll pass pristine waterfalls and a 600 feet deep gorge. Distance: 6 miles (9½km) with 1,100 feet (335m) of ascent. Continuing our journey to Clarenville, where we arrive in the late afternoon, we travel through the Terra Nova National Park. This is the island s oldest national park (established 1957) and includes a diverse range of rugged 6 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

7 landscapes: from cliffs and exposed headlands to sheltered inlets and coves along the coast; to forests, bogs, rocky outcrops and wetlands in the inland areas. Depending on arrival time, it may be possible to include a short hike in the park. We may follow the Campground Trail, which is great for wildlife sightings, including moose and bald eagles. Distance: 2 miles (3km) loop with 50 feet (15m) of ascent. Another possibility is the Coastal Trail, which snakes along the inner reaches of Newman Sound. It dips in and out between mature boreal forest and shorelines, passing Pissamare Falls, and offers good opportunities for spotting shore birds, bald eagles and ospreys. St. John s is one of North America s oldest European settlements: fishermen established seasonal camps here in the early 16 th century, but it wasn t until the 1630s that a permanent community was established. It has also gone down in history as the city where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal, in December This afternoon we enjoy hiking in the Conception Bay area, where we have two walk possibilities. The Topsail Bluff Trail, which forms part of the East Coast Trail, climbs steadily up to Topsail Mountain and along the bluff for excellent views of the surrounding area. Distance: 2 miles (3km) with 650 f eet (200m) of ascent. Distance: up to 3 miles (5km) with 250 feet (75m) of ascent. Accommodation: Clarenville Inn (1 night) Meals: B, L, D Day 11: to St. John s We travel to St. John s in the morning, arriving in time to have lunch at our leisure in the city. This is Newfoundland and Labrador s capital city; it is also the province s largest city, and a busy commercial port. Alternatively, we follow the Manuel s River Trail with a local park guide. The site is one of scientific and historic significance due to the presence of exceptionally well-preserved fossils. We ll learn more about the river valley s significance as well as its history, geology and flora and fauna. We have time to take either the Upstream or Downstream Trail; there may, however, be time to explore the other section without the guide. Distance: up to 3 miles (5km) with negligible ascent. As we continue our journey to St. John s, there may be time for a short detour to visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse, the most eastern point in North America. If time does not allow, it s also possible for us to include this on our final day. 7 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

8 Accommodation: Delta Hotel & Conference Centre, St. John s (2 nights) Meals: B, D Day 12: St. John s & surroundings Today is spent in the Avalon Peninsula, before returning to St. John s in the late afternoon and our final night in the city. Alternatively, walk with our guide along the Mickeleens Path to Witless Bay. The trail meanders through peaceful woodlands, lush sea meadows and offers spectacular views from cliff-edge vantage points to the ecological reserve, coastal geology and the ocean. Distance: 4½ miles (7km) with 350 feet (110m) of ascent. Please note: for the September departure the boat tour is in the morning only; your local guide will reverse the day s activities to enable you and your fellow guests to enjoy this incredible experience. Meals: B, D We travel to Tor s Cove; from here we follow the La Manche village path (another section of the East Coast Trail) to the abandoned village of La Manche. This is a very popular route along the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, which supports colonies of seabirds, notably puffins. Whales can often be spotted, too. We cross a suspension bridge to reach the village and hope to enjoy our picnic lunch on the nearby shore. Distance: 4 miles (6km) with 150 feet (50m) of ascent. Day 13: Departure day We have time to discover the colourful history and culture of charming St. John s before our night flight home. Enjoy a leisurely morning before checking out of your room at 11am; there will be somewhere for you to store your luggage for the day. We then journey towards Bay Bulls, where we have two options for the afternoon s activities. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the puffins and whales boat tour (1½ hours, $69 pp, payable locally book with local guide in advance). 8 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

9 An afternoon walking tour of the downtown core takes us past the brightly painted fishermen s houses, the bustling harbour and on to Signal Hill for spectacular views over the city. We return via the North Head trail, leaving time for you to explore the town on your own. Our guide may suggest a meeting point for a final meal (own cost) before we return to the hotel and transfer to the airport for our night flight home. Meals: B Alternatively, you can explore independently or relax at your leisure. If we did not visit Cape Spear on arrival, we may have time to visit today either late morning or immediately after our walking tour in the city. 9 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

10 ACCOMMODATION Stay in comfortable 3 and 4-star partner hotels and welcoming inns in city centre and stunning coastal or rural locations, including a stay in the stunning Gros Morne National Park. Many feature a pool and free Wi-Fi; more information is available through the website links provided. On arrival in Newfoundland we will stay at Marble Inn Resort for 2 nights. You ll find real Newfoundland hospitality here at this 4-star plus resort, located on the banks of the River Humber. Note; twin rooms consist of one queen bed and a single pull out bed. Neddies Harbour Inn is situated in the heart of the Gros Morne National Park, providing an exceptional location for our 3-night stay. This award-winning boutique hotel offers first class service with tremendous views of Bonne Bay fjord and the Gros Morne Tablelands. We continue to St. Anthony, where we stop for 3 nights: we stay at the Grenfell Inn in July and the Hotel North in September. Both hotels overlook the harbour and are within walking distance of local amenities. L Grenfell Inn; R Hotel North 10 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

11 We spend one night at the Holiday Inn Express in Deer Lake. This hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub. Bedrooms are comfortable with coffee maker, hairdryer and free WiFi. The Clarenville Inn is a 4-star rated motel style inn located by Trinity Bay. En-suite rooms offers 2 queen or 1 king-sized bed. There is an onsite restaurant, and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Conveniently located in downtown St John s, the 4-star Delta Hotels St. John s Conference Centre provides great access to the harbour and the city centre. Rooms will be available for late check out on the final day of the holiday. 11 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

12 BEFORE YOUR HOLIDAY Ahead of your trip, we hope you find this information comprehensive. If you need anything else, please get in touch. All details were correct at the time of writing. Passport and visa requirements are subject to change: please check with your consulate before you travel to ensure you meet all travel and entry requirements. We advise that you check your government s travel advice before travelling. For UK travellers, please check In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0) or +44(0) (from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0) Airport parking & accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at: Suggested Kit List As you ll be carrying your own luggage at airports and between your transport and hotels, we recommend you try to keep your luggage to a minimum. These items are a general suggestion of what to pack for an active outdoor and walking holiday; depending on your destination, you may need more of some things and less or none! of others. We advise being prepared for all weather conditions, but you ll know best what you prefer to wear when out walking or while taking part in other outdoor activities. Walking boots (worn in), with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking socks Walking sandals Lightweight fleece, waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts and short-sleeved t-shirts Long trousers and long-sleeved lightcoloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun. Your clothing should ideally be pre-treated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor). Warm fleece, scarf/buff hat and gloves Torch Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sun hat, sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2-litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) and a liner or cover to keep contents dry. Insect repellent Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets; hand sanitiser Essential: Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit 12 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

13 card is probably the most convenient method for emergencies. Optional: trekking poles; camera; umbrella; binoculars; high energy food bars; swimming costume and towel; walking sandals Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance One piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas Passports must be valid for the duration of the stay, and we recommend that you have at least 6 months validity beyond the end date of your holiday. All British citizens, and those from Australia and New Zealand, will need to present an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) to board your flight. The cost is approx and covers you for 5 years. You will need to apply in advance. For more information, please see: If you are a dual Canadian-British national, you are advised to travel with your Canadian passport. Other nationals should check with their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate for details of entry requirements. Travel insurance Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore, if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. Canadian medical services are excellent, but can be expensive and in some areas, surcharges are imposed for visitors. Insurance is, therefore, essential. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us, please call us on or holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. For more information about healthcare abroad and its costs, please visit: If you are arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. Generally, this should include cover for walking at altitudes over 2,000m, which will cover you for a wide range of our holidays. Health advice This information is subject to change. In all cases, we highly recommend you consult your GP both for up to date details and for more information on what is appropriate to your situation. As a rule, travellers should be up to date with their routine vaccinations and boosters as recommended in the UK - including, for example, the MMR and diptheria, tetanus, polio vaccines. Requirements can change, and we recommend you check in good time ahead of your holiday. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution, it is recommended to: Keep medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription 13 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

14 If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country you re visiting For further information on country specific advice, visit or Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements; we will do our best to accommodate you. Please note that some dietary limitations that are common in the west are less well understood in Japan. If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport on arrival. They will assess the damage; in some cases, the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if an immediate settlement is not possible - in many cases, baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests On arrival, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim. Your HF Holidays leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrival s hall - look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel (at additional cost), please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0) to enquire about availability and make arrangements. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin and insurance details. You must complete and return this to us - we need to have this from you at least 10 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday. This is important because our leaders must consider both group and individual safety at all times. Whilst out with the group, we respectfully request that you: Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor Please stay where you are if you become separated from the group. The leader will retrace their steps to find you. Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you in your own kit (see Suggested Kit List). 14 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

15 In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 119 (ambulance and fire) or 110 (police). Please then call our emergency number (see p. 12) and let us know there is a problem. Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides, drivers and restaurants. Any additional tips, including when you are exploring independently, are at your own discretion. Climate The region experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are humid and range from warm to hot. Cold fronts can bring crisp, windy weather in the early and later parts of summer. Local currency & money matters Canadian Dollars (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted but you may like to have some cash for small purchases. ATMs are most accessible at the airport, but your local guide can plan a stop at a bank if required during the trip. Suggested reading and maps Lonely Planet, Canada (Apr 2017, 13 th edition) Moon Travel, Newfoundland & Labrador (2017) Although you won t need them, if you d like any maps of the destination, you can obtain some in advance from The Map Shop: Electricity Electricity in Canada is 120V/60hz frequency. Flat two or three-pin plugs are used. Group size Typical group size is 8 guests to a maximum of 18, plus local leader(s). Time difference GMT/UTC -2½ hours, or -3½ in British Summer Timer How much spending money you take is up to you, however you will need some per day to cover items such as drinks with meals, any souvenirs you may like to buy and other incidental items. Four lunches are not included in the holiday cost. We d suggest an average budget of CA$ per person per day: your actual spend may be more on days where you buy lunch, but less on others. These are guideline amounts only Travellers cheques are not advised. 15 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk

16 16 Call or visit hfholidays.co.uk