St. John's in 1 Day for Couples - Coastal views and cliff-top viewpoints (Cape Spear, Ferryland)
In Collaboration with Tripvia Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Explore Newfoundland’s Irish Loop — a self-guided, GPS-triggered audio driving tour that runs clockwise around the Avalon Peninsula, passing rugged coastline, fishing villages, and historic sites. Use the Tripvia Tours smartphone app (download on Wi‑Fi before you go). Start at 3 Fort Amherst Rd, St. John's and follow the route at your own pace. Total suggested driving window: 6 hours.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tripvia Tours, inspired by the tour Irish Loop Smartphone Audio Driving Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Coastal views and cliff-top viewpoints (Cape Spear, Ferryland)
- Historic fishing villages and local stories (Petty Harbour, Bay Bulls, Ferryland)
- Wildlife spotting opportunities (Witless Bay, Mobile Bay)
- Self-guided audio narration with GPS-triggered stories
Itinerary
Day 1
Clockwise self-guided drive of the Irish Loop using the Tripvia Tours app. Start at 3 Fort Amherst Rd (Fort Amherst) in St. John's. Follow the GPS guidance; commentary will play automatically as you approach each point.
Tour overview – Avalon Peninsula
Set off on a breathtaking coastal journey along the Irish Loop; hear an introduction to the route and what to watch for (history, wildlife, and coastal scenery).
Tips from local experts:
- Download the Tripvia Tours app on Wi‑Fi and complete the tour download before leaving St. John's.
- Start with a full tank of gas — services are limited along parts of the Loop.
- Keep your phone charged and bring a car charger so audio plays for the full route.
Deadman's Bay (story & viewpoint)
Discover how Deadman’s Bay earned its ominous name with tales of pirates and peril as you drive past.
Tips from local experts:
- Listen to the audio while driving past; pull into a safe turnout to take photos.
- Watch the roadside for short pull-ins — parking may be narrow and unpaved.
- Respect private property signs; stick to marked public viewpoints.
Blackhead (traditional fishing village)
Explore the traditional fishing village of Blackhead and hear about its seafaring history and ocean views.
Tips from local experts:
- If you stop, park in designated village spots and avoid blocking local driveways.
- Dress in windproof layers—coastal winds can be strong even in summer.
- Keep visits short if parking is limited; enjoy the view and the audio story.
Cape Spear – easternmost point & lighthouse
Stand at the edge of the continent at Cape Spear and hear stories of courage, survival and discovery.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the official Cape Spear parking area; the trail to the lighthouse is short but exposed.
- Great spot for a quiet romantic photo; cliffs are steep — stay behind safety fencing.
- Facilities are limited; restroom availability may be seasonal, so plan accordingly.
Maddox Cove (local history & storms)
Hear tales of survival, legendary storms, and local folklore as you drive past Maddox Cove.
Tips from local experts:
- The cove is a small community — be mindful of residents when stopping.
- Roadside pull-ins are few; plan a brief stop rather than a long visit.
- Audio narration explains local storms—park safely before listening closely.
Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove (colorful harbour)
Take in Petty Harbour’s colorful shores and hear a local skipper’s perspective on fishing and filming in the area.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to stop for photos or a quick walk, use the municipal parking area to avoid blocking the harbour road.
- Couples: a short stroll to a viewpoint makes for a nice shared moment—wear comfortable shoes.
- Local eateries and services may be present but check seasonal opening hours.
Ponds (First Pond, Second Pond, Third Pond) — local naming
Learn why water features of all sizes are called 'ponds' in Newfoundland — a local naming tradition explained.
Tips from local experts:
- This is primarily an audio story best experienced while driving — use a safe pullout to pause the route if needed.
- Roadside viewpoints are often unpaved; step carefully and wear stable footwear.
- If you prefer to photograph reflections on ponds, aim for calmer winds and avoid blocking the road.
Local storyteller (James Doyle segment)
Hear a first‑hand account from a local resident — a personal story that connects place and past.
Tips from local experts:
- This segment is narrative-led — pull over safely if you want to listen without driving noise.
- Keep voices low at residential pullouts out of respect for locals.
- Use the app's pause feature if you need to stop for a break or snack before continuing.
Bay Bulls (history, puffins & legends)
Learn about Bay Bulls: pirate raids, fairy legends, and puffin-watching opportunities along the coast.
Tips from local experts:
- If puffins are your priority, consider short boat trips from Bay Bulls when available (not included in this tour).
- Parking in Bay Bulls village can be limited in summer — plan brief stops.
- Respect nesting areas and maintain distance from wildlife; use binoculars for better viewing.
Witless Bay (name & charm)
Hear the story behind Witless Bay's name and enjoy coastal charm as you pass.
Tips from local experts:
- Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is known for birdlife; if stopping, use designated viewing areas.
- Traffic can pick up near the reserve — drive cautiously and use turnouts.
- Couples: a short seaside walk works well here; bring layers for cool sea breezes.
Mobile (bay wildlife)
Mobile Bay comes alive in summer with whales, puffins, and soaring eagles — keep your eyes on the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Scan the horizon with binoculars for whales and seabirds; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.
- Use safe pullouts to stop for wildlife viewing rather than parking on the shoulder.
- Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife; never attempt to approach or feed animals.
Tors Cove (storm story segment)
Listen to Nathaniel tell the dramatic tale of a stormy night in Tors Cove — fear, cannons, and local lore.
Tips from local experts:
- Tors Cove roadside viewpoints are limited; plan a brief stop and avoid obstructing traffic.
- Narrative segments are best enjoyed with audio clarity — reduce in-car noise or pause to listen.
- If you stop, stay on marked paths near the shoreline; rocks can be slippery.
La Manche (suspension bridge & coastal views)
View hidden beaches and the dramatic suspension bridge at La Manche Provincial Park; narration explains the name and landscape.
Tips from local experts:
- La Manche Provincial Park has a suspension bridge and short trails — park in the official lot if you plan to walk.
- Trail surfaces can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for a short walk to viewpoints.
- If you prefer a quick photo, use the parking area near Route 10 rather than attempting roadside stops.
Wildlife segment (local wildlife tales)
Join a wildlife lover’s commentary on animals that roam the Avalon Peninsula and what to look for.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep binoculars accessible and pull off the road at safe viewpoints for wildlife watching.
- Avoid sudden stops on narrow roads; use designated turnouts where available.
- Observe wildlife quietly; sudden noise can startle animals and harm viewing chances.
La Manche (1966 storm & village fate)
Hear about the 1966 event that changed La Manche forever and how the village’s fate unfolded.
Tips from local experts:
- This is an audio-historical stop — use a safe pullout to stop your car if you wish to listen carefully.
- Respect signage at historical sites; some areas are sensitive and may be fenced off.
- Photography opportunities are roadside; avoid trespassing on private land.
Cape Broyle (folklore & place names)
Explore how pond names, fairies, and local folklore shaped communities like Cape Broyle.
Tips from local experts:
- If stopping in small communities, be mindful of narrow streets and residential parking.
- Local folklore segments are best enjoyed with the app volume set clearly but consider using earbuds.
- Check local signage for viewpoints and stay off fragile coastal vegetation when taking photos.
Roadside cemetery & ghost stories
Pass a quiet cemetery with flickering lights and hear modern twists on old folklore.
Tips from local experts:
- Cemeteries are private and sensitive spaces — observe respectfully and avoid loud behavior.
- If you stop for photos, do so quickly and avoid disturbing gravesites or ceremonies.
- Use the app narration to learn background context rather than relying solely on visual cues.
Calvert (name history & rock formations)
Learn why Calvert changed its name and about local rock formations with unusual stories.
Tips from local experts:
- Village parking may be limited; plan short visits and use municipal lots where provided.
- Watch for local signage explaining natural features — many have short interpretive areas.
- If you wish to walk coastal trails, check tide conditions and footwear.
Ferryland Lighthouse (coastal vantage & history)
Enjoy sweeping ocean views at Ferryland Lighthouse and hear historical vignettes (Lady Sara Kirke featured in narration).
Tips from local experts:
- Use the official lighthouse parking area; the walk to viewpoints may be exposed and windy.
- Ferryland parking and access can be busier during archaeological dig open days—plan stops accordingly.
- Couples: a cliff-top view here is a classic spot for a quiet shared moment; respect barriers and paths.
Ferryland archaeological site (The Colony of Avalon)
Hear about the 17th-century Colony of Avalon archaeological site and its historical significance.
Tips from local experts:
- The Colony of Avalon has on-site tours and seasonal hours; check local signage if you wish to join a guided dig visit (not included).
- If stopping at the archaeological site, supervise any brief walks — some areas are protected.
- Bring a hat and water if you plan to stroll the site — exposure can be significant on sunny days.
Ferryland town (pirate tales)
Listen to pirate stories and hear about local hideaways as you pass through Ferryland.
Tips from local experts:
- Village streets can be narrow — use public parking and avoid blocking local traffic.
- Pick a safe pullout for commentary if you want to pause and stroll the harbour briefly.
- Respect local businesses and seasonal hours if you plan to stop for food or restrooms.
Aquaforte (harbour name & history)
Hear why Aquaforte is named for strong water and local anecdotes about its harbour history.
Tips from local experts:
- Aquaforte is a small harbour village — if stopping, use marked parking and be brief to respect residents.
- Listen from the car if roadside stopping options are limited.
- If you plan to photograph the harbour, use official pullouts and avoid blocking the road.
Aquaforte waterfall (photo opportunity)
A chance to see the waterfall that gave Aquaforte its name — a short natural highlight along the drive.
Tips from local experts:
- Access to small waterfalls may be via short trails or roadside turnouts — wear sensible footwear.
- Water features can be slippery; keep to established paths and maintain a safe distance from edges.
- Bring a lightweight cover for your phone or camera — mist can affect lenses near falls.
Fermeuse (local storyteller Tommy Brophy)
Hear local legend Tommy Brophy share maritime tales about waves and coastal life.
Tips from local experts:
- Fermeuse village access is limited in places — if stopping, use community parking areas.
- Narrative segments are best enjoyed with minimal in-car noise or by stepping from the vehicle briefly.
- If you linger, be mindful of pets and livestock that may be present near village roads.
Renews (name origin)
Discover how the quirky name 'Renews' came to be and local coastal lore.
Tips from local experts:
- Use village turnouts for brief stops; don’t block the main road while listening to the audio.
- Local signage may provide additional context if you want to extend your stop.
- Couples: a short harbour-side pause works well for photos—watch for tide lines and slippery rocks.
Chance Cove (shipwreck stories & viewpoint)
A detour-worthy stop for shipwreck stories and rugged coastal views — narration explains why it’s memorable.
Tips from local experts:
- There may be a short signed pullout for viewpoints — use it rather than roadside parking.
- Keep visits brief if parking is limited; many visitors stop just for photos and to stretch legs.
- Watch the waves from a safe distance — coastal rocks can be unexpectedly slick.
Cape Race (Titanic connection)
Learn about Cape Race’s link to the Titanic and its role in maritime history.
Tips from local experts:
- Cape Race is remote — services are limited; plan fuel and supplies before heading farther south.
- Pull into official viewpoints for safety — roads can be narrow and winding.
- Keep the audio volume moderate to hear historical details clearly over road noise.
Geological cliff (evolution story)
Hear how a rocky cliff changed scientific thinking about evolution — a geology-focused narration.
Tips from local experts:
- Coastal cliffs can be unstable—observe from marked areas and avoid approaching cliff edges.
- If you want to photograph the formations, use a telephoto lens rather than stepping onto loose rock.
- Check the app pause feature if you plan to step out and listen to the full segment without driving noise.
Portugal Cove South (community resilience story)
An overturned fishing boat symbolizes local resilience after cod collapse — hear how communities endured and adapted.
Tips from local experts:
- Village roads are narrow; if stopping, use official parking and avoid blocking local traffic.
- Interpretive markers or roadside memorials may be present — view respectfully.
- If you wish to explore more, check local opening hours for any small museums or visitor centers.
Coastal stretch with pirate & Biscayan fisher tales
Listen to stories of Biscayan fishers, burning ships, and pirates like Black Bart as you drive along quiet stretches.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a drive-by narrative best enjoyed while moving — pull into a safe turnout if you’d like to pause.
- Roadside shoulders may be narrow; avoid unsafe parking and keep to designated pullouts.
- Use the app to bookmark any segment you want to re-listen to later at a more leisurely stop.
Trepassey (aviation history)
Hear how Trepassey made aviation history twice in the 20th century and its role in early flight.
Tips from local experts:
- If stopping in Trepassey, use town parking areas and local visitor information when available.
- A short walk near the harbour gives good perspective on aviation-related sites—wear sensible shoes.
- Narration includes historical details best listened to with minimal in-car distraction; use a brief stop if needed.
Saint Vincent's (contrasting pond & ocean views)
Framed by ocean and calm pond, Saint Vincent’s offers contrasting coastal scenery and local character.
Tips from local experts:
- Small village roads and parking areas should be used respectfully—avoid blocking local access.
- Short walks give the best views; wear a light jacket for coastal breezes.
- This is a quiet spot—keep noise low to preserve the local ambiance.
Holyrood (a strange & rich pond story)
Hear why one pond near Holyrood is considered unusual and how local natural history shaped the community.
Tips from local experts:
- Holyrood offers roadside viewpoints and short park areas—use designated lots for stops.
- If you plan a longer break in Holyrood, local services (cafés/restrooms) are available seasonally.
- Couples: a brief lakeside pause here is a calm interlude—watch footing on shorelines.
Point La Haye (Irish heritage & mummering)
Hear how Irish heritage, glacial geology and traditions like mummering shaped Point La Haye.
Tips from local experts:
- Village parking may be limited — keep stops brief and use community lots when provided.
- Local traditions are best respected — avoid photographing people without permission.
- If you want to learn more, note the segment and revisit it when you have internet access to research further.
St. Mary's (American Revolution soldier perspective)
Hear from a British soldier’s perspective stationed during the American Revolution and the role of cannons in protecting fishing resources.
Tips from local experts:
- Historical roadside segments are best enjoyed from a safe pullout — avoid standing in traffic lanes.
- Local historical sites may have interpretive signs—read them for added context after listening.
- Carry water and a small snack if you plan to stretch legs at historic viewpoints.
Place names explained (St. Catherine’s/Salmonier/Mitchell’s Brook)
Narration sorts out local place names and their connections across neighbouring communities.
Tips from local experts:
- Drive attentively through small towns — signage can be confusing and roads narrow.
- If you plan to stop in any of these towns, use municipal parking and be brief to respect local traffic.
- Downloaded maps in the app help orient you if road signs are unclear.
Butter Pot (provincial park & nature stories)
Hear tales of fugitives, forest fires and local freedom against the backdrop of Butter Pot Provincial Park's wild blueberries and rock outcrops.
Tips from local experts:
- Butter Pot Provincial Park has official parking and short trails — use them for any walk or photo stop.
- Trail surfaces can be uneven; wear closed-toe shoes for short walks.
- Check park hours or seasonal access if you plan to walk further into park areas.
Return to St. John's (North America’s oldest city)
Finish your clockwise loop back toward St. John's — listen to closing narration about the city's history and the end of the loop.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect increased traffic approaching St. John's — allow extra time for urban driving and parking.
- If you plan an evening in St. John's, consider booking dinner in advance as popular spots fill in summer.
- Use the app save/bookmark feature to mark any segments you want to revisit while in the city.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 38 |
| Total Places | 38 |
| Activities Types | Attraction |