Story | Leslie Yip Boucher-Harris
The northernmost coast of Newfoundland is a land of mystery and stories, drawing countless people to explore and uncover its secrets.
Dancin’at the Lighthouse
Iceberg viewing and whale-watching at Quirpon Lighthouse Inn,
Saint Lunaire-Griquet, NL
Experience the untamed beauty of Newfoundland’s northernmost coast with a stay at Quirpon Island’s working lighthouse. Set along the shores of “Iceberg Alley,” this remote outpost offers front-row views of the massive icebergs that drift past each year from Greenland via the Labrador Current—just 550 kilometres from where the Titanic met its fate.
Built a decade after that tragedy, the lighthouse now welcomes adventurous guests. June is prime time for iceberg viewing, but the colder northern waters often host these icy visitors into September. Zodiac and kayak tours bring you face-to-face with the icebergs, while the surrounding waters are alive with whales and puffins. Near the Viking site of L’Anse aux Meadows, Quirpon offers a rare blend of nature, history and maritime charm.
Guests at Quirpon Lighthouse Inn are treated to hearty, traditional meals that showcase local Newfoundland flavours. The menu often features local fish and game, complemented by homemade breads and jams. Afternoon tea with sweets is also offered, providing a delightful respite after a day of exploration. Don’t forget to try the local beers crafted with iceberg water!
What to Wear
Arc’teryx Ifora Jacket, in ganache | $1,000, arcteryx.com
Impervious to wind and rain yet breathable, this structured oversize jacket is made with the latest performance fabric. A trenchinspired vent at the back improves breathability and is protected with a storm flap and air-permeable panel.
Mini Mioche Cloud Short Sleeve T-shirt | $32, minimioche.com
Nautical stripes are a must on a seaside vacay. This made-in-Canada striped T-shirt is free from toxic dyes, formaldehyde and harsh chemicals, showing love to both our country and our skin.
Jared Brown Designs Pave Diamond Anchor Chain | $10,800, jaredbrowndesigns.com
A subtle play on the nautical theme, this 14-karat, yellow gold necklace is designed by a Toronto luxury jeweller and features 2.54, carats total diamond weight.
Vessi Weekend Chelsea Waterproof Boots, in teak | $174.95, vessi.com
These classy-looking boots from Vancouver are 100 per cent waterproof and have high traction rubber soles for extra grip. There is a sock-knit version too for those seeking lightweight and comfortable rain-proof footwear.
What to Pack
Blume Sunburst Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen, 50 ml | $54, blume.com
Sunlight reflected off the sea can significantly increase your overall UV exposure. Protect yourself with this hydrating mineral sunscreen. Rosemary extract, allantoin, vitamin E and niacinamide reduce inflammation and irritation and help fade spots and scars. The citrus formulation is great for acne-prone skin.
Three Ships Radiance Grape Stem Cell + Squalane Ultra-Hydrating Cream, 50g | $50, threeshipsbeauty.ca
The sea breeze can be intensely drying. This cream quenches skin with grape stem cells and natural squalane. The brand was founded by Laura and Connie in 2017 from their Toronto apartment with just $4,000 in savings.
Fellow Earthlings 10mm Beach Bunny Cabana sunglasses in 004 | $750, fellowearthings.com
These sunglasses come with their own awning for your peepers and are produced on Prince Edward Island. The premium rose gold Zeiss lenses helps you spot those icebergs with 100% UVA/UVB protection.
Benjamin Gordon Raine Sling Bag | $95, benjamingordon.ca
A stay on the island would not be complete without going to sea. Keep your belongings secure and dry with this vegan leather sling bag. The pockets are large enough to fit everything you need, in a comfortable size (15 by 27.5 cm) that won’t feel cumbersome while sitting in a boat. The adjustable strap lets you wear it over a life vest too.
Bring the Experience Home
This stool features solid wood construction, soft edges and an easy, organic shape designed to withstand serious daily use. The support bar between the legs is both a design feature and a footrest.
Sundays Field Stool Limited Edition in Poppy | $320, sundays-company.ca
The brand was founded in late 2019 by four Vancouver-based Canadians and their boutique-like showrooms can be found in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver.
Bring the colour of sand and texture of seagrass inside your home with this pillow and throw set. Based in Montreal and founded in 2020, Cozey is Canada’s first modular sofa-in-a-box company.
Cozey Sand Dunes Style Set | $155, cozey.ca
The brand has since vastly expanded its line to include dining sets, outdoor furniture and accessories.
RCL tote bag, $35. Available only in-stores (394 stores across Canada) and in very limited quantities.
The three RCL banners—RW&CO., Reitmans, and PENN, have partnered with renowned Canadian artist Stephanie Cheng to create a limited-edition collection of tote bags made in Canada, each uniquely designed to represent every province and the Northwest Territories where their stores are located.
