Land Ho!
I first sighted land from the deck of the ferry. A stark but beautiful vista bathed in the warm light of a westering sun. Newfoundland had put on her best bonnet. Temperature in the upper 20s (celsius), not a cloud in the sky, an ocean like a mirror.
This is not quite what I had expected, and from the chatter, it’s rarely what the locals expect either. The island and its people are used to harsher climes.
From first glance (below), the port town of Port aux Basques looked like a few houses huddled along an unforgiving coastline.
End of the road
In the morning I decided to drive along the south coast to the end of the road (Rte. 470) and the town of Rose Blanche. Although there are towns further on, they are accessible only by boat.
My impression was of a land rich in beauty and natural splendour, and one virtually unspoiled by the hand of man.
Built in 1871 from a nearby granite quarry, a sentinel of the shores.
Verbatim
jd, to fellow sitting on his porch (FSOHP): “Just another tourist!”
FSOHP: “I can see that. (I set up the tripod to take the photograph above.) Why are you taking a picture of that?”
jd: “It’s a beautiful corner of the planet.”
FSOHP: “I can’t see it. It’s just my neighbour’s house.”
jd: “Let’s face it, when you come from a city full of cars and traffic, this is an oasis.”
FSOHP: “I think I understand. And I hear the neighbours don’t talk to each other much over there.”
jd: “Aye.”
FSOHP (as I leave): “You have yourself a good life!”
Port aux Basques to Rocky Harbour
After exploring the south coast, I began the trip up the western coast, stopping at Codroy Valley, where there is an estuary, the promise of bird sightings, and a nature trail. Not many birds spotted, but a pleasant 5 km walk through forest and wetlands.
Port au Port Peninsula
On July 8, I circled around the Port au Port Peninsula where the road hugs the coastline and offers spectacular views. Again the weather was holding, although you’ll see the odd hint of fog rolling in.
Gros Morne
It was late afternoon July 8 by the time I reached Gros Morne and despite all of the literature and tourist information, I was quite unprepared for its beauty. The photographs can’t do it justice, but they can try.
(July 6-8)
To be continued . . .
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and photos JD. Nfld is the one province I have yet to visit. Your blog has inspired me to do so.
Thanks, and yes, you should indeed make the trip, Leona!
I have flown over every corner of Newfoundland, and spent many hours on the ground there as well. It is indeed a far corner of the world, with an unbelievable variety of landscape. Don’t forget the screech!
Aye!
Absolutely beautiful photography John and your commentary is so descriptive. It made me want to go back again…..areas of Gros Morne are really beyond description. I’m glad the weather is holding. cb
Thanks, Carol. Truly spectacular!
John,
Just viewing your photos is a micro-holiday. It makes me want to return to Gros Morne. Keep up the beautiful adventure. I liked the conversation with FSOHP too!
LA
Your travelogue is really making me want to visit there … too bad it is truly on the other side of the country from where I am. But one day!
Your photos and captions carry Ross and I into your experience so beautifully. Thank you. Please continue enjoying “perfect days”.
Beautiful photos and commentary, JD. Thank you so much for sharing.
A touch of jealousy slipping in here. Looks like a great trip. Never been to Newfoundland but may yet make it. What’s the trick to be sure you have good weather?
I love your photo journal with accompanying well-worded text.
Great photoes jd! and I particularly liked the conversation!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful images of Newfoundland and your thoughts. I look forward to the next verse.
Absolutely fantastic. I am loving it. Thank you
Thank you for sharing, not only the beauty of the sites, but your perspective, the beauty that can be relished from simplicity.
Ann, Peter and I are enjoying our morning in your company!
Thanks for the beautiful photos and travelogue.
Thank you Sarah! Glad you’re enjoying!