Traveling through Newfoundland in a van means embarking on an adventure on an island that combines raw nature, genuine hospitality, and unexpected moments. A family road trip that definitely ranks among our all-time favorites.
We began our road trip from Estrie, heading toward Nova Scotia. Everything started in North Sydney, where we boarded the ferry to Channel-Port aux Basques. We love ferries! A 6.5-hour journey awaited us. If your budget allows: book a cabin (especially if you have a child or are prone to seasickness). It also lets you take a shower before hitting the road again. That little comfort makes a big difference when starting the adventure to Newfoundland.
First Wave at Cape Ray
We had barely arrived and were already surrounded by breathtaking scenery. On one side, impressive mountains; on the other, the vast ocean! We quickly searched for a nearby beach. Off to Cape Ray—a wide, peaceful beach with just enough waves to bring out the boards. Zak runs everywhere, Julien plays in the water, and Karo slowly recovers from the ferry’s rocking. The sand, sea spray, and cries of seagulls—Newfoundland greets us with energy, and we’re so happy to finally be here.
We spent the night at Grand Codroy RV Park, a simple and well-located campground near the ferry terminal.
Coffee, Mountains, and Billions of Years
The next day, we hit the road toward Corner Brook. A must-stop: Harbour Grounds, a cozy café serving the best lattes in town and mouthwatering pastries. They even have fun little games for Zak! We took the time to explore a bit before heading to the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park.
Here, we were literally walking on the Earth’s mantle. The easy 4 km trail leads through a lunar-like landscape in shades of orange: rocks pushed up from deep inside the Earth 400 million years ago. A fascinating and emotional experience. A great hike for the whole family!
From Fjords to Peaks
We then experienced two must-dos in Gros Morne: the Western Brook Pond boat tour and the Gros Morne summit hike. The cruise (2 hours total) took us deep into a landlocked fjord surrounded by towering cliffs—calm, majestic, almost surreal.
The hike, on the other hand, was a whole different challenge. The Gros Morne Trail is about 17 km, with steady climbs, a technical final ascent, and unpredictable weather. Don’t underestimate it! Unfortunately, a massive rain cloud awaited us at the summit, and we didn’t get to see the view we worked so hard for (bummer)… but the adventure was totally worth it!
We stayed that night at Shallow Bay Campground, surrounded by conifers and moss—an ideal spot to recharge.
The next morning, we headed to Port au Choix, a small fishing village on the island’s northwest coast, often overlooked by classic itineraries. We were looking for a quiet place to spend the night, but what we found was so much more: a group of caribou. About ten of them—peaceful and curious—just a few meters away. We were speechless. What a privilege to witness such a special moment with this magnificent and threatened species.
Chasing Icebergs, Lovely Lighthouses & Local Catch
Next, we drove toward Twillingate. We visited the village and camped beside the largest iceberg we’d seen yet—which split in two during the night! A deep rumble, a suspended moment in time. How lucky we were to be there! With climate change progressing, who knows if Zak will get to see another someday. We felt deeply grateful to share that with him.
We spotted several more icebergs during the trip. If seeing them is one of your goals, we recommend visiting in early June. You can even track them using Iceberg Finder!
A little farther southeast in Trinity, we parked in a quiet, secluded spot overlooking the cliffs and crashing waves. A top sleeping spot, for sure!
Further south, we pulled out our wetsuits for a surf session at Point Lance Beach—gentle waves, relaxed vibes. And the cherry on top: a local fisherman gifted us freshly caught crab. A dream! One of the things that really stuck with us on this trip was the warm and genuine welcome from the local people. We’re so grateful to those who helped us, chatted with us, shared a special moment, or simply smiled as we passed.
Heading East: Colorful City and End-of-the-World Vibes
Next stop: St. John’s, the vibrant capital. We strolled the streets, visited artisan shops, enjoyed great food, and soaked in the city vibe—before heading out to sleep at Middle Cove Beach.
At sunrise: thousands of capelin on the shore, whales in the distance. A spectacular scene and an excellent fish lesson for Zak.
Just 20 minutes from the city, we tackled our final hike: the Cobbler Path Trail, which hugs the east coast. If you’re tight on time like we were, you can park near the last two kilometers and walk that section to catch the view. But if you have the time, do the whole thing—it’s absolutely worth it. Bonus: a whale show just for us!
With Birds and Whales
At Cape St. Mary’s, we set up for the night near the lighthouse at the ecological reserve. Thousands of northern gannets were nesting nearby, flying in loud squadrons. The sunset over the cliff was one of the most beautiful of the trip, surrounded by a few fellow vanlifers who had chosen the same spot.
The next morning, we took the trail leading to the cliff where the birds nest. One of the best decisions of the entire trip! We were treated to an intimate and indescribable experience with Mother Nature.
Ending on a High Note
All good things must come to an end. We headed back toward the ferry but made one last detour to the Rose Blanche Lighthouse, on the far southwestern tip of the island. The drive was breathtaking—winding roads, hidden lakes, tiny villages, golden sunset. If you’re doubting your GPS, trust it—the detour is worth it! The lighthouse is stunning and steeped in history. We even spotted whales still playing and feeding offshore.
As we left Newfoundland, our van was filled with memories, sand, seashells… and the deep feeling of having experienced something real.
This family road trip reminded us just how much our country deserves to be explored from coast to coast—literally. Canada has this rare gift of continuing to amaze us, even when we think we’ve already “seen it all.”
Discovering Newfoundland was a privilege—an experience that went beyond all expectations.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, take the time to explore these lesser-known corners. The kind of places that make you feel small… and incredibly alive.
To find out about our Labrador adventure, click here!
