Newfoundland Adventure: From Signal Hill to Gros Morne

Enjoy a visit and walk around Signal Hill in St. John's. This national historic site is famous for its role in military history and communication breakthroughs (the first wireless transatlantic signal was received here in 1901). Walk around the area and take in the beautiful views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. Check out the iconic Cabot Tower and savour the rugged coastline. There may be time for a quick stop at the visitor centre.

Spend a few hours this afternoon exploring the quaint town of Brigus. The well-kept, old-style architecture, stone walls, lush green gardens, and winding narrow lanes are reflective of the English, Irish, and Welsh heritage evident here. The group will walk through the charming town, visit an old tunnel in the rocky cliffs by the harbour, learn about the maritime history here, and enjoy free time for lunch. There will also be time for an optional visit to the Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site, or to walk part of the Lighthouse trail if you choose. Brigus is famous for its annual blueberry festival and so trying one of the blueberry pastries (like cobbler, crisp, or pie) is a must.

Trinity, Newfoundland is known for its well-preserved heritage architecture, vibrant arts scene, and for being one of the province's oldest settlements. It was once a major trading centre for salt fish and boasts a beautiful harbour. Follow your CEO on an orientation walk of the small town and get a sense of the history as you go. Then, spend time on your own. Find your way around town by the old-fashioned street signage in calligraphy, watch a blacksmith at work, or visit the Cooperage to learn about barrel making. Later in the evening, choose to join your CEO for a sunset walk on Gun Hill to see golden hour colours over Fisher Cove. The walk to get to the top takes between 20 and 30 minutes. Or you could choose to book a show at the Rising Tide Theatre. This local establishment located in the heart of Trinity has been producing culturally rich and locally rooted performances for over 40 years.

Enjoy a walk on a narrow, well worn path for about 5 minutes to reach the local puffin viewing site. This is one of the best accessible locations in North America to view this beautiful bird. Between May and September the colourful auks occupy a section of the land at the end of a rocky outcrop. Observe, take photos, and simply enjoy the wildlife.

Spend the afternoon on a hike with your CEO on one of the trails along the Bonavista Peninsula. Your CEO will choose the trail based on weather and overall group ability. Options could be the Cape Shore trail to the lighthouse (3.5km along the coastline), Murphy's Cove Loop (7.7km coastal loop through abandoned community), and Skerwind Trail (5.3km coastal loop with wildlife viewing opportunities).

King's Point is special for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Known for the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail with 2,200 stairs and unforgettable views and the local art scene. During free time here choose to hike along the trail with your CEO and enjoy a packed lunch along the way. This will be 8km and 350m in elevation gain. Or choose to stay in town and visit a local restaurant for lunch. Then walk on your own to places like the King's Point Pottery Gallery or Heritage House.

Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts diverse landscapes from fjords and mountains to forests and coastlines. The area also offers a unique and visible example of continental drift and plate tectonics. Begin the visit today with the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. Walk along the trail with views of the water and visit the exhibit.

Set off on a boat tour on Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord with waterfalls, billion year old cliffs, and plenty of chances to see wildlife. Throughout the two hour boat tour, the group will learn more about the geological and historical features of this gorgeous place. You will walk from the parking lot to the dock which is about 3km and takes 45 minutes along a gravel and fairly flat trail.

Travel to Norris Point and board the boat shuttle to Woody Point. This 15-minute ride across the beautiful Bonne Bay saves an hour drive and offers stunning views to those on the boat. Take in the views of the Tablelands, Gros Morne Mountains, and small communities dotting the shoreline. Disembark in the quaint fishing village of Woody Point. Upon arrival there will be about 45 minutes of free time to explore the town on foot.

Start the CEO-led hike from the trailhead near Woody Point. Follow an old roadbed as it weaves along the base of the mountain. Search for plants, unusual rocks, and panoramic views. Finish the trail in the glacially carved Winter House Brook Canyon. The total distance is about 4km roundtrip, there will be about 88m of elevation gain and it will take 1-2 hours.