The sun is shining over the mountains and the waters of Bonne Bay are gently lapping at the shore – it’s a “bluebird day,” as they say.
From Maya’s Place, look out over the bay towards Gros Morne Mountain as you sip your morning coffee. Curl up with a book or a journal.
Later don a warm winter jacket, boots, mitts, and toque, even on sunny days the wind has a bite. Stroll along a quiet, yet still picturesque, Water Street. It’ll be you and us locals. Take the drive to Trout River through the Tablelands, and walk along the boardwalk or down on the sandy beach. You’ll see, everything is a little more magical under a layer of snow.
Throw on a pair of snowshoes (pack your own or rent a pair from Wild Gros Morne) and head to the Tablelands. This epic landscape is all the more incredible when it sparkles with snow. You might just be the only people on the Tablelands, so different from the summer.
For a bit of fun, head to the Woody Point Legion. A popular spot with the locals for a drink, a game of darts, or a dance. With so many talented folks in the area, you might even get a front row seat to an impromptu musical performance.
And that is our perfect winter day in Woody Point. Just ask and we’ll help plan your perfect winter day in Woody Point, be it snowmobiling, ice fishing, backcountry skiing, an outdoor boil-up or a romantic getaway.
1. Woody Point Lighthouse
A charming little lighthouse that overlooks Bonne Bay with Gros Morne Mountain and the community of Norris Point in the distance. We suggest packing a picnic, or ordering one from Galliott Studio’s or the Bonne Bay Market.
2. Outdoor Patio at the Merchant Warehouse or Galliott Studios
Everyone looks cool on an outdoor patio with a pint of beer or other refreshing beverage with the sun overhead and the ocean behind you.
3. The Red Adirondack Chairs Atop Lookout Trail
Feeling adventurous? This steep 5-km return trail is probably one of the best panoramic views in Gros Morne. Without a doubt, any photo here will stand out on your Instagram grid.
4. Downtown Woody Point
This is one of 6 heritage districts in the province. Colourful buildings with wooden siding along the waterfront and historic homes feature elements of the late 19th and early 20th Your photos from here will look as though you’ve stepped back in time.
5. Tablelands
Last, but certainly not least. Due to the orange colour the landscape here is often compared to Mars, and it makes one heck of a backdrop. Hike to the top, or take the marked trail that follows the base. Either way, the photos you take here will look out of this world.
1. The Fall Colours
Gros Morne is stunning in every season, but there is something special about seeing the shades of red, orange, and gold sweep the surrounding mountains. Maybe it’s the crispness of the air that makes the colours so vivid. Maybe it’s simply the change of the season. Either way, you’ll leave here with breathtaking photos and lifelong memories.
2. Fewer Tourists In The Area
When August fades into September, the number of tourists dwindle down. There are less shiny rental vehicles and out-of-province plates on the roads, children return to school, and the daylight hours are a little shorter. This is the perfect time to explore the park at your own pace. There’ll be fewer people on the trails so you’ll truly feel like you’ve gone off the beaten path.
3. Great Weather For Hiking
Most fall days are ideal for hiking. The temperature is a bit cooler, the breeze a little stronger, and the views are just as beautiful. We recommend packing a few extra layers, think a wind breaker, rain coat, a pair of mittens or warm gloves, and a toque.
A favourite pastime of ours is to spend an afternoon (or a whole day) browsing the many craft stores and galleries in the area. In fact, many locals from nearby towns, like Deer Lake and Corner Brook, often make the drive to Woody Point for the day to find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items.
In Woody Point, park at one end of Water Street and walk down the flat, shore side lane and visit an array of craft and gift stores and cafes. Or, walk from Curzon Chalets to Water Street, it’s about 10-15 minutes, you’ll even pass by the Woody Point Lighthouse.
The shops are full of locally made souvenirs such as paintings, hand knitted goods, assorted pottery, stained glass, jewelry, quilts, jams, baked goods, soaps, books, hooked mats, and so much more! Some of the artisans even do demonstrations and workshops.
Here are some of our favourite, not-to-be-missed shops and galleries in the area:
- Molly Made Fibre Art Studio
- Christine Koch Studio
- Art Gallery at the Parks Canada Discovery Centre
- Galliott Studios
- The Hunky Dory
- Pic A Tenerife Crafts
- Jersey Room Craft Shop, located below The Old Loft Restaurant
- Middle Brook Craft Shop
- The Sample Room
- Seaside Gift Shop
- Bonne Bay Market
There’s more in Trout River. Take the 20-minute drive from Woody Point to Trout River. We promise you’ll enjoy the scenic drive through the rust-coloured Tablelands. Once in Trout River, walk along the boardwalk to rustic crafts shops. May we suggest lunch or dinner at the award-winning Seaside Restaurant? It’s always a hit with seafood lovers.
Eight Things You Might See From Our Chalets
1. Whales
22 species of whales visit the shores of Newfoundland and Labrador every year. Many of them are frequent visitors to Bonne Bay, including minke, fin, and humpbacks.
2. Birds
Gulls, eagles, cormorants, terns, and gannets are just a few of the species who call Bonne Bay home. Ask for a birding checklist at the Parks Canada Discovery Centre (Route 431) or Visitor Resource Centre (Route 430).
3. Tour Boats
From catamarans to zodiacs, here are the local companies offering tours on Bonne Bay:
- BonTours
- Gros Morne Adventures
- Gros Morne.
4. Fishing Boats
Woody Point and many of the surrounding communities are still active fishing communities.
Depending on the season, you might see boats of all sizes that catch lobster, crab, cod, and halibut, just to name some of the delicious tasting seafood.
5. Gros Morne Mountain
It’s the second highest point on the island of Newfoundland (806 meters), and a bucket list hike for many of our visitors.
6. Cruise Ships
In a normal season (think pre-covid) we might see up to 10 cruise ships in Bonne Bay. We look forward to seeing these visitors return.
7. Kayakers and Stand-Up Paddleboarders
A favourite hobby for many of the locals. Usually in the morning, evening, or when the wind is calm these water enthusiasts can be spotted.
Ask one of the local operators about their tours or rentals:
- Gros Morne Adventures
- Gros Morne Outdoor Co.
- Wild Gros Morne.
8. Moose
Although it’s rare to see, moose have been spotted on the beach or swimming. After all, who doesn’t love long walks on the beach?
Welcome To Curzon Chalets
Hello, we’re Lexie & Jeff and we’re so excited to share our new site with our visitors. After 6 years in business, it was about time we added a website to highlight all the amenities of our two chalets and trip ideas for when you stay with us. Lexie is also a superhost on AirBnB. We’re committed to Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process and can offer contactless check-in/out.
Woody Point is truly a special place for lovers of nature, culture, and the arts. It’s why Writers at Woody Point takes place here, why artists and musicians find inspiration here, and why visitors from around the world make the trip. It’s a magical place you have to discover for yourself.
We look forward to having you stay at Curzon Chalets and to sharing our favourite things to do with you in upcoming blog posts. At any time, reach out to us about booking a chalet and trip ideas in Gros Morne National Park. We can’t wait to hear from you!