Background

Norstead: A Viking Port of Trade

Experience Viking life firsthand at this meticulously recreated trading village near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of L'Anse aux Meadows.

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Step back in time at Norstead, a living history museum that meticulously recreates a Viking trading village from 1000 years ago. Located near the L'Anse aux Meadows UNESCO World Heritage Site, Norstead offers an immersive glimpse into the lives of the Viking explorers who first arrived in North America.

A brief summary to Norstead

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (June to mid-September) to experience the site at its fullest with all demonstrations and activities available.
  • Engage with the costumed interpreters to learn about Viking life and try your hand at traditional crafts.
  • Explore the Norstead Trail around the village and along the shore for scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Norstead is located on Route 436, close to L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site. From St. Anthony, follow Route 430 north, then turn onto Route 436. The site is well-signposted. Parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From St. Anthony, a taxi or rideshare to Norstead is a convenient option. The journey is approximately 30 kilometers. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. A taxi ride may cost around $50-$70 CAD.

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Discover more about Norstead

Norstead offers an immersive experience into the Viking Age, allowing visitors to explore a recreated Norse village and step directly into the past. This four-hectare site, situated just 2km from L'Anse aux Meadows, replicates a Viking port of trade as it might have appeared between 790-1066 AD. The village features several authentic-looking structures, including a boathouse housing the full-scale replica Viking ship Snorri, a chieftain's hall, a church, and a blacksmith's shop. Costumed interpreters bring the site to life, demonstrating traditional crafts, sharing Viking tales, and engaging visitors in interactive experiences such as axe throwing, pottery making, and rune telling. Visitors can learn about Viking navigation, boat building, weaving, and cooking, and even try their hand at ancient crafts. The replica Viking ship, Snorri, is a highlight, representing the vessel that sailed from Greenland to L'Anse aux Meadows. The site also provides educational exhibits detailing the history and significance of the Viking presence in Newfoundland.

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