Lost in Newfoundland: Discovering Small Towns on the Eastern Coast - Day 2
After an amazing first day, Rikki and I were excited to embark on another fun adventure as we made our way up North from St. John’s. We ventured along the eastern coast, to explore the quirky charms of the small towns and the breathtaking wonders of Bonavista.
They say the early bird catches the worm (or in our case, adventure), and with the sun just beginning to peek over the horizon, we were already in the car and ready to take on day two. Energized and fueled by anticipation, we embarked on a scenic drive towards Dildo, NL, a town with a peculiar name that’s filled with good vibes.
Late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, inadvertently put Dildo, NL on the map many years ago during one of his segments. He couldn't resist poking fun at the town’s name, which led to a hilarious conversation that quickly gained viral attention. Kimmel even donated a Hollywood-like sign to the town, further bringing Dildo to the global spotlight.
When we arrived in Dildo, we couldn't resist starting our exploration with a visit to the legendary sign that has put this cute town on the map.
After that, we stopped by Captain Dildo, a beloved local icon. The statue pays homage to the town's seafaring roots while evoking laughter and camaraderie. Standing erect, Captain Dildo reminded me to embrace the lighthearted spirit of Newfoundland and seize every moment of joy in the little quirks.
After a few good laughs and photos, we continued our journey towards Come by Chance, another funny name that perfectly goes hand in hand with Dildo. The drive was scenic with sweeping views of rolling hills, charming villages, and the ever-present beauty of the Newfoundland coastline.
Soon, we found ourselves in the magical town of Bonavista, a place where history intertwines with natural wonders. For lunch, we decided to treat our taste buds to a delicious meal at Mifflins Tea Room. The cozy ambiance and delicious homemade dishes left us savoring every bite, knowing we were indulging in the authentic flavors of Newfoundland. I had the seafood chowder with a cheddar biscuit and it was delicious.
As the afternoon unfolded, it was time to settle into our accommodations at The Harbourside Inn & Cafe, a charming retreat offering stunning views of the harbour. Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Port Union, this cozy inn became our haven, a place to unwind and recharge after a long day.
After getting settled in, we embarked on a short hike to witness the breathtaking Arch Rock. As we stood there, gazing at its formation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for Mother Nature's artistry. After a much needed hike, we made our way to the town of Elliston, where we visited the puffin viewing site. Watching these adorable seabirds in their element, nesting and playing, was an absolute dream come true. They’re such beautiful creatures. Unfortunately, I did not have the camera gear to capture these birds in the way that they deserve, but luckily a photographer I met agreed to send me a few of his photos for my blog. Shout out to Roy Wilhelm for these incredible shots!
With hunger calling, we headed to Skippers Restaurant for dinner. This beloved eatery offered a delectable array of seafood delights, each bite a testament to the coastal treasures that grace Newfoundland's shores. From a succulent lobster sandwich to perfectly cooked cod fish and chips, we relished in the flavors of the sea, a true feast for both the palate and the soul.
As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the remarkable experiences that unfolded throughout the day. Newfoundland, with its charm, hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes, had once again captured our hearts.
Stay tuned for more tales of discovery this week. Newfoundland has so much more to offer, and we can't wait to share the wonders that await us on this wild and whimsical island.
Yours in wanderlust,
Luis
