Road Trippin’ in Newfoundland – Clarah’s favourite things

As I am writing these lines, I am celebrating my first year anniversary of moving to St. John’s. What a year it’s been. Matthew (my life partner and chef-owner of Terre Restaurant) and I moved here because a few years ago we fell in love with this rock in the middle of the ocean and, mostly, the people who live on it – and a year after moving here, I can say without a doubt that our feelings have not changed.

We have had the chance to make amazing connections and go on great adventures and road trips – and I thought I would share some roadtrip ideas with you for your summer staycations.

Forage and dine al fresco in Pouch Cove

Shawn Dawson, one of the most renowned foragers in the country, has been providing Terre Restaurant with greens, wild mushrooms and roots. Shawn lives in the small town of Pouch Cove (about 25 minutes from Alt Hotel St. John’s) and can welcome our guests in his magical yard for an outdoor lunch made with wild foods handpicked by him. You can also visit his garden, chat and have tea with Elke, the lovely lady who owns the property, as well as pet goats (my personal favourite activity). Contact me directly if you would like more information.

Take a picnic and drive through the Avalon

If you feel like simply exploring and seeing where the wind takes you, and perhaps encountering an iceberg or two, consider packing a delightful picnic to enjoy on your journey. My favourite route from St. John’s is the drive to Ferryland and back. There are so many beautiful points of view on the ocean where, in season, you can see whales and icebergs.

Get on the water with Saltwater Society

It’s very easy to like Nick Montevecchi, owner and operator of Saltwater Society. He just smiles and laughs all the time – making him very approachable and the best captain for a boat adventure. Saltwater Society has a few different tours available (with friendly prices for Newfoundlanders) and leaves from picture-perfect Portugal Cove.

Shop downtown St. John’s

There is great shopping to be done downtown St. John’s. Park your car in our underground parking for a couple of days, settle in your room and use the hotel as your basecamp for a great shopping staycation. My favourite stores include Home on Water, Johnny Ruth, Nonia and the Craft Council / Pantry. All these stores give a huge space (if not all of it) to local labels.

Go West!

Thinking of going out West? The Hew & Draw Hotel is a 4.5 star Boutique Hotel in downtown Corner Brook – and is the best possible base to explore the Bay of Islands. Sharing its building with sister company Boomstick Brewing Co, it is one of few places in North America where you can plan a full one-stop ‘beercation’. The beautifully designed Hew & Draw appeals to all adventurers with a variety of suite options, pet friendly accommodations. The little extras include complimentary breakfast, rooftop patio with saltwater hot tubs and a variety of experiential packages that can be found here.

Enjoy!