Labrador Straits

The Labrador Straits region, stretching along the rugged coast of southern Labrador, is a land of dramatic fjords, ancient Viking history, and abundant wildlife. This remote area offers a raw, untamed beauty that captivates those who venture here, with icebergs drifting past, humpback whales breaching in the Strait of Belle Isle, and the haunting remains of a Norse settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a place where the sea and land intertwine, offering a profound sense of isolation and connection to the past.

Highlights & What to See

• L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site – Explore the reconstructed sod huts at the only confirmed Norse settlement in North America, dating back to around 1000 AD. The windswept coastal setting adds to the atmosphere.
• Iceberg Alley – From spring to early summer, massive icebergs calved from Greenland glaciers drift through the Strait of Belle Isle. Take a boat tour or watch from shore at places like Point Amour or Red Bay.
• Red Bay National Historic Site – Discover the 16th-century Basque whaling station, a UNESCO site with underwater archaeology exhibits and a reconstructed chalupa boat.
• Point Amour Lighthouse – Climb the tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada for panoramic views of the coast, and visit the adjacent foghorn building and museum.
• Pinware River Provincial Park – A great spot for salmon fishing, hiking, and camping, with trails leading through boreal forest to scenic waterfalls.
• Battle Harbour National Historic District – A restored 18th-century fishing village on an island, offering a glimpse into Labrador's saltfish industry and a chance to see puffins and whales.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least three to four days to explore the core sights between Red Bay and L'Anse aux Meadows, plus a day for a boat tour to see icebergs and whales. If you want to include Battle Harbour or more remote areas, allow a full week. The region is best visited in summer (June–August) when the weather is milder and most attractions are open; iceberg season peaks in May–June.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• St. Anthony – The main service town for the region, with grocery stores, accommodations, and the Grenfell Interpretation Centre showcasing local history.
• Gros Morne National Park (Newfoundland) – A four-hour drive (including ferry) south, this UNESCO site boasts dramatic fjords, hiking, and unique geology.
• Battle Harbour – Accessible by ferry from Mary's Harbour, this historic island community is a must for history buffs and birdwatchers.
• Pistolet Bay Provincial Park – A scenic park near L'Anse aux Meadows with hiking trails and beach access, ideal for camping.
• Strait of Belle Isle – The waterway itself offers exceptional whale watching (humpback, minke, and orca) and seabird colonies.

Please check official sources for current details.