A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador: A Hidden Treasure in the Far East of Canada

Introduction

St. John's, the capital of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the far east of Canada, St. John's is known for its colorful wooden houses, its vibrant artistic scene, and its stunning coastal landscape. Although it is the easternmost city in North America, St. John's is an accessible and welcoming destination for visitors from all over the world.

History and Culture

St. John's is one of the oldest cities in North America, with a history dating back over 500 years. The city is famous for its distinctive architecture, which includes a mix of historic and modern buildings. The city center is a maze of narrow, winding streets, filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The St. John the Baptist Basilica Cathedral, an impressive stone structure that dominates the city's skyline, is a testament to St. John's rich history.

Tourist Attractions

St. John's offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The Cape Spear lighthouse, the easternmost point in North America, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Terra Nova National Park, located a short drive from the city, is a paradise for nature lovers, with its extensive forests, lakes, and rivers. The Newfoundland and Labrador Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the province.

Outdoor Activities

St. John's is an ideal destination for lovers of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and fishing in the numerous parks and nature reserves in the area. In winter, the city offers excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. In addition, St. John's is a popular place for bird watching, with a wide variety of species that can be seen throughout the year.

Cuisine

The cuisine of St. John's reflects the city's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional Newfoundland dishes, such as salted cod and chips, as well as a variety of international dishes. The city is also known for its lively bar and pub scene, where visitors can enjoy a pint of local beer while listening to live music.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for history, culture, natural beauty, or outdoor adventure, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, has something to offer all visitors. With its warm hospitality and unique charm, this city in the far east of Canada is a destination not to be missed.

Gastronomic Products of St. John's

• Jiggs' Dinner

  Jiggs' Dinner is a traditional dish from Newfoundland that is mainly served on Sundays. This hearty dish includes salt meat, cabbage, turnips, carrots, and potatoes. It is also served with "pease pudding", a yellow pea pudding that is cooked in the same broth as the meat and vegetables.

• Fish and Chips

  St. John's is famous for its fish and chips, which is considered one of the best in Canada. Fresh cod is battered in a light and crispy dough and served with golden fried potatoes. It is often accompanied by "dressing" (a type of bread sauce) and cranberry sauce.

• Newfoundland Butter Tart

  The Newfoundland butter tart is a popular dessert in St. John's. This delicious tart has a crumbled biscuit base and a sweet and sticky filling made from butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. It is often served with a cup of tea.

• Screech

  Screech is a type of dark rum that is famous in Newfoundland. Originally, Screech was a term used to describe the Jamaican rum that was brought to Newfoundland. Today, Screech is a trademark and the rum is produced in the province. It is known for its strong flavor and is often used in the "Screech-In" ceremony, a Newfoundland tradition to welcome visitors.

Sporting Activities in St. John's

Hiking

St. John's offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The East Coast Trail is particularly popular, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the chance to see icebergs and whales.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in St. John's. You can fish for salmon in local rivers or join a deep-sea fishing tour to catch cod and grouper.

Kayaking

Explore the stunning coastlines of St. John's by kayak. There are several companies that offer kayak rentals and guided tours.

Golf

St. John's has several high-quality golf courses. The Pippy Park Golf Course is a local favorite, with panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

Cross-country Skiing and Snowboarding

In winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboarding on the hills of Pippy Park.

Nearby Places to St. John's

If you're in St. John's and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Bay Bulls, in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a must-visit tourist destination for nature and gastronomy lovers. It offers exciting whale watching tours and a local cuisine rich in fresh seafood and traditional dishes.

Ferryland, in Newfoundland, Canada, is a historic tourist destination with panoramic views of the Atlantic. It is famous for its gourmet picnic at the lighthouse and its rich culinary tradition, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Irish dishes.