The Bonavista Peninsula juts northeast into the sea just south of Terra Nova National Park. It's a worthy side trip for travelers fascinated by the island's past. You'll find a historic village, a wonderfully curated historic site, and one of the province's most intriguing lighthouses. It's also a good spot to see whales, puffins, and icebergs.
Along the south shore of the peninsula is Trinity, an impeccably maintained old village. (It's the only village in Newfoundland where the historic society has say over what can and cannot be built.) Some longtime visitors grouse that it's becoming overly popular and a bit dandified with B&Bs and traffic restrictions. That may be, but there's still a palpable sense of tradition in this profoundly historic spot. Anyway, it's the place for miles to find good shelter and a decent meal.
From Trinity it's about 40km (25 miles) out to the tip of the peninsula. Somewhere along the route, which isn't particularly scenic, you'll wonder whether it's worth it. But keep going; it will be. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the dramatic, ocean-carved point and the fine fishing village of Bonavista, with its three excellent historic properties.
Note that there's little in the way of interesting accommodations or restaurants this far out, so it's better to plan this as a day trip (perhaps from Trinity) rather than an overnight. The one sight possibly worth seeing is the Bonavista North Regional Museum (tel. 709/536-2110), open daily from 10am to 6pm July through September. It features displays on fishermen and the local fishing industry, as well as some items depicting community life here during the early 20th century.
