Discover the Rich Heritage of Red Bay National Historic Site
Explore Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the fascinating history of 16th-century Basque whalers and stunning natural beauty.
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Newfoundland and Labrador, Red Bay National Historic Site invites travelers to step back in time and explore its vibrant history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features fascinating artifacts from the 16th-century Basque whalers, offering a unique glimpse into early transatlantic exploration and the whaling industry's impact on the region. Visitors can engage with the site's captivating narratives through guided tours and interactive exhibits, all set against a breathtaking natural backdrop.
A brief summary to Red Bay National Historic Site & World Heritage Site
- Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0K 4K0, CA
- +1709-920-2142
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience and better access to guided tours.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the coastal trails for stunning views and wildlife sightings.
- Check the weather ahead of your visit and dress in layers, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Be sure to stop by the Interpretive Centre to gain a deeper understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the scenic park area after exploring the site.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start your journey on the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) and head towards Newfoundland and Labrador. Depending on your starting point in the Maritimes, you may need to take a ferry to cross the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The most common ferry route is from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. The ferry ride takes approximately 6 hours and tickets can range from CAD 100 to CAD 200, depending on the size of the vehicle and the number of passengers. Once in Newfoundland, continue on Route 1 to Deer Lake, then take Route 430 to the town of St. Anthony. From St. Anthony, follow Route 436 to Red Bay, with the final destination located at Red Bay, NL A0K 4K0.
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Bus
For those using public transportation, consider taking a bus service from various locations in the Maritimes to Corner Brook, Newfoundland. Several companies operate routes from Halifax to Corner Brook, with prices averaging around CAD 70 to CAD 120. Once in Corner Brook, you will need to transfer to a local bus or arrange for a taxi to take you to the nearest ferry terminal in Port aux Basques. After arriving in Port aux Basques, you can either rent a car or use local transportation to reach Red Bay. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they can vary.
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Ferry
If you are starting from the northern part of Nova Scotia, you can take the ferry from Caribou to Wood Islands. The ferry is about 75 minutes long and prices are similar to the North Sydney to Port aux Basques route. After arriving in Wood Islands, follow Route 1 to connect with Route 2, which leads to Route 430. You will then continue to St. Anthony and finally reach Red Bay, NL A0K 4K0.
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Air Travel
For travelers flying into the area, the nearest major airport is in St. John's, Newfoundland. From St. John's, you can rent a car or take a domestic flight to Deer Lake. From Deer Lake, follow the same driving directions mentioned previously via Route 1 and Route 436 to reach Red Bay. Keep in mind that car rental prices vary, so it's advisable to book in advance.
Discover more about Red Bay National Historic Site & World Heritage Site
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