Twillingate is a captivating coastal town in Newfoundland and Labrador, rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” this destination is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Here’s a detailed look at Twillingate’s history, the beautiful Rockcut Trails, and the variety of things to do in this unique town.

Historical Overview

Twillingate’s history dates back thousands of years, with the earliest inhabitants being the Indigenous Beothuk people. These Indigenous groups relied on the region’s abundant resources and coastal access. The arrival of European settlers in the 1700s marked a turning point, transforming Twillingate into a bustling fishing community. As one of Newfoundland’s oldest ports, it became a key area for the cod and seal fisheries. Today, many historic sites preserve this legacy, including the Twillingate Museum, which houses artifacts, photos, and stories that trace the area’s heritage.

Long Point Lighthouse

One of the most iconic landmarks in Twillingate, the Long Point Lighthouse, was established in 1876. Perched on the rugged coastline, it offers panoramic views of the Atlantic, especially stunning during iceberg season. The lighthouse stands over 300 feet above sea level, and its location makes it an ideal spot for spotting icebergs, whales, and seabirds. The Lighthouse is also home to exhibits about the area’s maritime history and provides insight into the life of early lighthouse keepers who braved the elements to ensure safe navigation along Newfoundland’s coast.

The Twillingate Museum and Craft Shop

The Twillingate Museum and Craft Shop is another must-visit site, offering a window into the town’s past. Housed in a former Anglican Rectory, the museum displays artifacts that date back to the early 19th century. Visitors can explore exhibits related to the fishing industry, medical practices, and family life of early settlers. Additionally, the craft shop features unique handmade items created by local artisans, making it a great place to find authentic Newfoundland crafts.

Beothuk Interpretation Centre

Located nearby, the Beothuk Interpretation Centre in Boyd’s Cove is dedicated to the memory of the Beothuk people. This interpretive site invites visitors to walk through the same paths that the Beothuk once roamed, offering a meaningful connection to the Indigenous history of the area. The site includes archaeological artifacts, and its trails lead to a historically significant campsite.

Rockcut Trails

For nature enthusiasts, the Rockcut Trails are a network of scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of Twillingate’s rugged landscape. The trails cover varying difficulty levels and distances, making them accessible for beginners and experienced hikers alike. Some of the most popular trails include:

French Beach Trail – This trail provides a relatively easy hike along the coast, with views of the bay and access to sandy shores and picturesque coves.
Sleepy Cove Trail – A more challenging hike that leads to impressive cliffside views and a secluded beach area.
Top of Twillingate Trail – Offering panoramic views, this trail ascends to a lookout point where hikers can observe the entire town and surrounding islands.

The Rockcut Trails are also rich in flora and fauna. During spring and summer, wildflowers bloom along the paths, while berry picking is a popular seasonal activity. Fall colors transform the landscape, and winter brings a serene beauty to these trails.

Visit https://rockcuttrails.ca/maps/ to access the Rockcut Trail Map.

Things to Do in Twillingate

Twillingate offers an array of activities, from exploring the sea to enjoying the town’s art and culture:

Iceberg and Whale Watching: Twillingate’s coastal location makes it one of the best places to view icebergs and migrating whales. Boat tours operate regularly during the iceberg season, generally from April to July. These tours allow visitors to get close to the towering ice giants and often include opportunities to spot humpback, minke, and even orca whales.
Artisan Market & Café: Twillingate is home to an active arts community, and the Artisan Market & Café is a vibrant hub for local craftsmanship. Here, visitors can shop for items from over 80 Newfoundland artisans, from handmade pottery and textiles to art pieces and jewelry. The café serves up delicious local treats, making it a perfect stop to relax and experience Newfoundland flavors.
Boat Tours and Fishing Excursions: In addition to iceberg tours, Twillingate offers boat tours focusing on the rich marine life and fishing traditions of the area. Some excursions allow visitors to try their hand at traditional fishing, creating a memorable and immersive experience.
Twillingate’s Culinary Scene: The town boasts a unique culinary scene that celebrates its coastal location. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants or visit the fish market for a taste of local catches. Twillingate also has a dinner theater where traditional Newfoundland cuisine is paired with live music, storytelling, and performances.
Split Rock Brewery: For craft beer enthusiasts, Split Rock Brewery offers locally brewed beers inspired by Newfoundland’s heritage and flavors. The brewery has a cozy tasting room and hosts events that provide a great way to mingle with locals and other travelers.
Auk Island Winery: Twillingate offers unique berry-based wines and hosts traditional "Screech-In" ceremonies, where visitors can become honorary Newfoundlanders. The winery also features a restaurant with local dishes and a gift shop with regional crafts, making it a popular spot for both wine lovers and those seeking authentic Newfoundland experiences.
Seasonal Berry Picking: In summer and early fall, berry picking is a beloved activity in Twillingate. Blueberries, bakeapples (cloudberries), and partridgeberries grow abundantly in the area, and visitors can pick their own while hiking the Rockcut Trails or exploring the countryside.
Music and Cultural Festivals: Twillingate is known for its music festivals, including the annual Fish, Fun, and Folk Festival, which celebrates the town’s seafaring culture with live music, parades, and local food. The festival draws people from all over and showcases Newfoundland’s vibrant folk music and storytelling traditions.
Twillingate NWI Dinner Theatre: Offers a unique experience combining local seafood, traditional Newfoundland dishes, and live performances. Guests enjoy a delicious meal while being entertained by folk music, comedy, and storytelling, celebrating the region's maritime culture. It's a memorable evening for those looking to experience Newfoundland's culinary and cultural heritage in an engaging setting.
Grand Old Shed Party: Is a lively, community-oriented event that celebrates local music, food, and culture. Held in a cozy, rustic setting, the event features live folk music and an informal atmosphere, offering a taste of Newfoundland's unique traditions. It's a fun, relaxed gathering that allows visitors to enjoy both the local flavor and the region's vibrant folk heritage. You can expect to learn how to play the Ugly Sticks, one of Newfoundland's iconic instruments.
Captain's Pub: Twillingate's lively venue featuring Mike Sixonate's performances, offering a great mix of local music and a cozy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy traditional Newfoundland food, drinks, and live entertainment. A highlight of the experience is the chance to participate in the traditional "Screech-In" ceremony, where visitors become honorary Newfoundlanders. It’s a fun, memorable spot for both music lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
Durrell Museum: A short drive from Twillingate, the Durrell Museum offers an array of exhibits, including an enormous polar bear that washed ashore years ago. The museum provides insight into the island’s unique fauna and cultural history.
Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching: Twillingate is a haven for birdwatchers, as the cliffs and coves attract a variety of seabirds, including puffins, kittiwakes, and gannets. The waters around Twillingate are also home to seals and dolphins.
Sea glass hunting: Twillingate offers an exciting opportunity for sea glass hunting along its pristine beaches. The shoreline is rich with colorful, weathered glass pieces, shaped by the sea over time. Exploring the coast for these hidden treasures is a peaceful and rewarding experience, perfect for nature lovers and collectors. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a first-timer, Twillingate’s shores offer a unique, tranquil adventure to discover beautiful sea glass.
Smiths Lookout: For a scenic view of Twillingate’s landscapes, Smiths Lookout is a favorite among visitors. The lookout offers a sweeping view of the harbor and is especially beautiful during sunset.
More details can be found at www.visittwillingate.com.

Exploring Twillingate by Bike

The Artisan Market & Café rents hybrid rock/ mountain bikes to visitors who want a different way to explore Twillingate. Biking around the town and along coastal trails allows visitors to experience the town at a leisurely pace, stopping at scenic viewpoints and local shops. Bike rentals are an eco-friendly option for getting around and provide a unique perspective on the town’s charm.

Isles Electric Bikes in Twillingate offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area. Rent an electric bike and cruise along the scenic coast, with the added benefit of electric assistance for an easy, enjoyable ride. Perfect for sightseeing or venturing along the town's trails, electric bikes provide an accessible way for all visitors to experience Twillingate's beauty.

Events and Festivals

Rockcut Ultra Marathon: An annual event held in Twillingate, Newfoundland, known for its stunning coastal views along the Rockcut Trails. It includes various race categories, from the full marathon to shorter distances, attracting runners of all levels. The marathon is celebrated for its scenic routes, challenging terrain, and community spirit, making it a memorable experience for participants and spectators alike. For more details, visit the official event website.
Unscripted Digital Arts Festival: Twillingate celebrates creative expression through digital art and technology. It features a diverse range of workshops, performances, and interactive exhibits, highlighting both local and international artists. The festival fosters collaboration and innovation, offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience the intersection of art and technology in a stunning coastal setting.
Fish, Fun, and Folk Festival: Celebrates the town’s rich maritime heritage with live music, seafood, and folk performances. Visitors can enjoy traditional Newfoundland dishes, arts, crafts, and family-friendly activities. The festival highlights local culture, offering a unique mix of food, music, and community spirit against the backdrop of the stunning coastal scenery.
Art at the Gate: A vibrant and unique community event in Twillingate that celebrates the arts in all its forms. Hosted annually, it features a collection of works by local artisans and artists, from visual arts like paintings and sculptures to handcrafted goods. This open-air event takes place at the town's scenic gateway and invites visitors to explore and purchase authentic Newfoundland artwork.

Twillingate’s Hospitality

Visitors to Twillingate often remark on the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Known for their friendliness, locals are often eager to share stories of Twillingate’s history, recommend favorite spots, or give insight into the traditional way of life that defines this area. Staying in one of Twillingate’s boutique accommodations or B&Bs offers a personal touch that makes a visit memorable and distinct.

Throughout the year, Twillingate encourages visitors to connect deeply with the surrounding natural world. Whether through quiet hikes, enjoying a boat ride, or simply sitting on the shoreline to watch the waves, there’s a powerful sense of calm in Twillingate. Its isolated location and dramatic coastal scenery make it a place to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life and appreciate Newfoundland’s pristine, untouched beauty.

With its compelling blend of history, nature, and culture, Twillingate is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. From the scenic Rockcut Trails and Long Point Lighthouse to the Artisan Market, vibrant festivals, and cozy cafés, there is always something to explore and experience. Whether you’re drawn by the towering icebergs, the warmth of Newfoundland hospitality, or the peaceful beauty of its landscapes, Twillingate promises an unforgettable adventure.