Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gros Morne National Park

A Day of Coastal Wonders and Culinary Gems

Today was a day of remarkable contrasts, from the rugged beauty of coastal formations to the cozy charm of local eateries. Klaus and I set out with a sense of adventure, eager to explore more of Gros Morne's hidden treasures. Little did we know, we were about to stumble upon some truly unforgettable sights and flavors.

Our first stop was The Arches Provincial Park, a place I'd been particularly excited to visit. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a winter wonderland as we approached the coast. Though I had forgotten my portable phone charger, the beauty of the park was enough to distract me from this minor inconvenience.

As we arrived at The Arches, the sight was simply breathtaking. The massive rock formations, sculpted by millennia of crashing waves, stood proudly against the backdrop of the wild ocean. The biting wind and the salty air added to the dramatic atmosphere. I could only imagine how magnificent it must be during the warmer months, perhaps even spotting whales or dolphins frolicking in the distance. Even in late November, the park held an undeniable charm.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Arches Provincial Park in Newfoundland and Labrador, where stunning landscapes and unique geological features await.

We took a short walk along the cobblestone beach, cameras in hand, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. The arches themselves are made of Ordovician-aged dolomitic conglomerate, a porous rock that has been slowly eroded by the relentless sea. It's a humbling reminder of the power of nature and the passage of time. Though the stairs to the beach were a bit steep, we managed carefully, taking in the fresh air and stunning views.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that bear the marks of time and the relentless forces of nature.

Next on our itinerary was Baker's Brook Falls. The drive to the falls was just as enchanting, with snow-covered trees lining the road. When we arrived, the falls were partially frozen, creating a mesmerizing display of ice and water. The crisp air and the quiet solitude of the place made it feel like we had stepped into a different world. I must admit, I was a little disappointed that I had forgotten our first aid kit, as the trail was a bit slippery, but we took our time and enjoyed the tranquility of the surroundings. The weather in Gros Morne in November can be quite cold, with average highs around 3°C (37°F) and lows around -2°C (29°F). There's also a good chance of rain or snow, so we were sure to dress warmly.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Baker's Brook Falls, a natural gem in Newfoundland and Labrador, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

After our nature excursions, it was time to indulge in some local cuisine. Our first stop was Aunt Sarah's Chocolate Shop in Rocky Harbour. This charming little shop offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with the aroma of freshly made chocolates. We sampled a few of their homemade treats, including truffles and caramels, and they were simply divine. I couldn't resist buying a few bars to take back to Heidelberg with us, a sweet reminder of our time in Gros Morne.


Discover the sweet charm of Aunt Sarah's Chocolate Shop in Rocky Harbour, where handcrafted chocolates and local flavors create a delightful experience.

For lunch, we decided on Java Jack's Restaurant & Gallery, a place recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a cozy and artistic vibe, with local artwork adorning the walls. I was particularly impressed with their commitment to using local ingredients and upscaling Newfoundland traditions. The menu featured a variety of dishes, from seafood to sandwiches, and everything looked incredibly tempting. We opted for the fish and chips, a classic Newfoundland dish, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh and perfectly battered, and the chips were crispy and flavorful. It was the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.


Experience exceptional dining at Java Jack's Restaurant & Gallery in Rocky Harbour - where culinary delights meet local artistry.

In the evening, we had a difficult choice to make: Oceans Room Restaurant or Sugar Hill Inn & Chanterelles Restaurant. After much deliberation, we decided on Sugar Hill Inn & Chanterelles Restaurant, drawn in by its reputation for fine dining and stunning views. The inn is nestled on a hillside above Norris Point, offering sweeping vistas of Gros Morne's rugged beauty. As we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience the charm of Sugar Hill Inn & Chanterelles Restaurant, where comfort meets gourmet dining amidst Newfoundland's stunning landscapes.

The menu at Chanterelles was a culinary masterpiece, featuring a variety of beautifully prepared dishes. From duck to chicken, cod to lamb, and salmon, there was something to please every palate. Klaus and I decided to try the roasted duck breast and the pan-seared NL cod, and both were exceptional. The duck was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender meat, while the cod was delicately seasoned and served with local vegetables and a silky cream sauce. The wine list was equally impressive, featuring a selection of international wines to complement our meal.

As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. From the awe-inspiring beauty of The Arches to the culinary delights of Sugar Hill Inn, Gros Morne had once again exceeded our expectations. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, the chance to discover hidden gems and create lasting memories.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Under the Stump and Jenniex House, eager to uncover more of Gros Morne's unique attractions. We might also pop into the Newfoundland Emporium for some local crafts and souvenirs. Each day here brings new adventures, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds. I am also trying to learn some local German idioms and use them in my posts, but it is harder than I thought!

Tonight, as I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had and the people we've met along the way. Gros Morne has a way of capturing your heart, and I know that this is a place we'll never forget. It reminds me of the serene landscapes of my childhood in New Zealand, a connection to nature that I deeply cherish. And sharing these moments with Klaus makes it all the more special. Perhaps we'll even consider a cozy cabin rental next time, to fully embrace the tranquility of this natural paradise. I am sure Olivia would have loved to see this place with us, but I know she is busy with her art.

As the day comes to a close, I'm reminded that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with local cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And Gros Morne, with its rugged beauty and warm hospitality, has certainly given us plenty to remember.

I am excited for what tomorrow holds for us, even if the weather forecast predicts light snow.