Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gros Morne National Park

A Day of Discoveries in Gros Morne

Today was a day of embracing the varied beauty of Gros Morne, from challenging hikes to tranquil shores and, of course, indulging in the local cuisine. Klaus and I set out with the intention of fully immersing ourselves in what this national park has to offer, and I must say, it delivered in spades!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at our cozy cabin. It's becoming a tradition to start our days with a good German 'Bauernfrühstück' – farmer's breakfast – a skillet of fried potatoes, eggs, bacon, and onions. It’s the perfect fuel for a day of hiking and exploring! Today, we were particularly excited to tackle the Lookout Hills Trail, a trek I'd heard offered some of the most panoramic vistas in the park.


Discover breathtaking views and diverse wildlife along the scenic Lookout Hills Trail in Gros Morne National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers.

Conquering the Lookout Hills Trail

The Lookout Hills Trail definitely lived up to its reputation. Starting from the Discovery Centre parking lot in Woody Point, the initial climb was indeed steep, just as the guidebooks warned. But every step was worth it! The trail wound through a dense forest, and as we ascended, we were treated to glimpses of Bonne Bay through the trees. The air was crisp and invigorating, a welcome change from the stuffy air back in Heidelberg.

As we emerged from the forest onto the highland plateau, the view was simply breathtaking. Bonne Bay stretched out before us, with Gros Morne Mountain and the Tablelands standing majestically in the distance. The platform atop Partridgeberry Hill provided the perfect vantage point to soak it all in. I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos, trying to capture the vastness and beauty of the landscape. Even Klaus, who usually prefers to admire the scenery in silence, was visibly impressed.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

We continued along the trail, which soon turned into a boardwalk winding through a unique bog area. The contrast between the rugged mountains and the delicate wetland was striking. I spotted several interesting plant species, their vibrant colors popping against the muted tones of the landscape. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity packed into this corner of Newfoundland.

The 5 km loop took us about three hours, and by the time we descended back to the Discovery Centre, our legs were definitely feeling the burn. But the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views made it all worthwhile. It's these kinds of experiences that remind me why I love hiking so much – the challenge, the connection with nature, and the reward of witnessing unparalleled beauty.

Tranquility at Shallow Bay Beach

Experience the serene beauty of Shallow Bay Beach in Gros Morne National Park, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in nature's paradise.

After our invigorating hike, we decided to unwind at Shallow Bay Beach. I had read about its soft, pale sand and shallow waters, perfect for a relaxing stroll. The drive to the beach was scenic, taking us through rolling hills and quaint coastal communities. As we arrived, the expansive beach stretched out before us, seemingly untouched and serene.

Even in late November, the beach held a certain charm. The wind was brisk, but the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a golden glow on the sand. We walked along the shoreline, the waves gently lapping at our feet. Klaus, ever the architect, was fascinated by the patterns the waves created in the sand. I collected a few seashells, souvenirs of our coastal adventure.

I can imagine Shallow Bay Beach would be a delightful spot in the summer, with its warm waters ideal for swimming. But even in the cooler months, it offered a sense of tranquility and escape. It was a perfect place to clear our minds and appreciate the simple beauty of nature. We even saw a few shorebirds clustered on the upper beach, likely migrating south for the winter.

A Culinary Exploration of Rocky Harbour

As evening approached, our thoughts turned to dinner. Rocky Harbour, known for its culinary scene, beckoned with several enticing options. After consulting a few locals, we decided to embark on a mini-culinary tour, sampling the offerings of three different establishments.

Our first stop was The Old Loft Restaurant in Woody Point. Situated on the second floor of a charming building, it had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We started with their famous fish cakes, a local delicacy. They were perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The restaurant was adorned with local art, adding to its charm.


Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at The Old Loft Restaurant in beautiful Bonne Bay, Newfoundland.

Next, we ventured to Fisherman's Landing Restaurant in Rocky Harbour. This spot was buzzing with activity, and we managed to snag a table on their patio deck. The view of the harbor was stunning, with fishing boats bobbing gently in the water. We opted for their seafood chowder, a creamy and flavorful concoction packed with fresh seafood. It was the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Fisherman's Landing also has a souvenir shop and a liquor express outlet, adding to its convenience.


Experience the taste of fresh seafood at Fisherman's Landing Restaurant in Rocky Harbour – where every dish celebrates Newfoundland's rich maritime heritage.

Our final stop was Anchor Pub, located in the Ocean View Hotel. This lively pub was known for its live music and entertainment. Although the band wasn't playing tonight, the atmosphere was still vibrant and cheerful. We enjoyed a couple of local craft beers while chatting with some friendly locals. It was a great way to experience the local culture and unwind after a busy day. The Anchor Pub also boasts a waterfront deck, perfect for enjoying the ocean views.


Discover Anchor Pub in Rocky Harbour - where delicious local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in Morne National Park.

Before heading back to our cabin, we made a quick stop at Jackladder, a restaurant and bar known for its hearty Newfoundland meals and decadent desserts. Although we were too full for a full meal, we couldn't resist sharing a slice of their partridgeberry pie. It was the perfect sweet ending to a day filled with discoveries.


Discover Jackladder in Bonne Bay Pond: Your go-to gas station and convenience store for all travel essentials and a cozy lounge experience.

Reflections and Tomorrow's Adventure

As I sit here writing, with a cup of herbal tea in hand, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Gros Morne National Park has a way of captivating you with its raw beauty and genuine charm. From the challenging hike on the Lookout Hills Trail to the tranquil moments on Shallow Bay Beach and the culinary delights of Rocky Harbour, every moment was a treasure.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore The Arches Provincial Park and Baker's Brook Falls. I'm particularly excited to see The Arches, a natural rock formation carved by the sea. And of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine along the way. I've heard great things about Java Jack's Restaurant & Gallery, so that's definitely on our list.

Before I sign off, I must mention something rather amusing. Remember how I was lamenting the fact that we forgot our portable phone charger? Well, Klaus, in his infinite wisdom, managed to rig up a makeshift charger using a car battery and some spare wires. It's not pretty, but it works! I suppose that's what happens when you marry an architect with a knack for problem-solving. 'Not macht erfinderisch,' as they say in Germany – necessity is the mother of invention!

Until tomorrow, 'Tschüss' from beautiful Gros Morne National Park!