Planning a trip to “The Rock” requires more than just a GPS. Newfoundland is a massive island with distinct regions, varied climates, and travel times that often surprise first-time visitors. This guide and Map of Newfoundland and Labrador provide a geographic overview to help you understand the scale of the island and how to navigate its three main “Gateways.”
Where Is Newfoundland?
Newfoundland is Canada’s easternmost province, situated in the Atlantic Ocean. While often grouped with the Maritimes, it is geographically distinct and significantly larger than its neighbours. The island is roughly the size of Iceland, meaning you cannot “see it all” in a single weekend.
FYI: Click on the blue “More Options” link in the map below to open the full interactive map. From there, you can modify your destination, see exact driving routes, and save your pins directly to your own phone!.
The Four Geographic Regions
To understand the map, you must first understand the four primary “hubs”:
1. The Avalon (East)
Home to the capital city, St. John’s. This is the most densely populated area and the furthest point east in North America.
- Key Logistics & Features:
- Signal Hill: Navigation to the iconic Cabot Tower and the best parking for the ‘Narrows’ views.
- Cape Spear: A 20-minute route guide from the city to the historic lighthouse.
- St. John’s Geography: A layout of the steep, colorful historic streets (Jellybean Row) and how to reach the Quidi Vidi village-within-a-city.
- Explore the Full Story: For a deeper look at the heritage and local charm of these locations, 24-Hour Layover in St. John’s. It pairs perfectly with this map to give you the full picture of life on ‘The Rock’.”
2. Eastern & Central
Central Newfoundland is a land of vast distances and hidden coves where it’s easy to lose your way—believe me, I’ve done it! My 2026 Interactive Route Maps help you navigate the ‘Road to the Isles’ with confidence, ensuring you find the landmarks without the stress of getting turned around.
- Gander: Navigate the historic ‘Crossroads of the World.’ My map includes the layout of this vital aviation hub and routes to the North Atlantic Aviation Museum.
- Twillingate (Iceberg Capital): A detailed guide to Route 340. Find the best vantage points at Long Point Lighthouse and the winding coastal roads of the Kittiwake Coast.
- Terra Nova National Park: Essential Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) logistics for crossing through Canada’s easternmost national park safely.
- The Wild Island Kitchen Experience: Getting lost led me to one of my favourite memories: a dinner on the beach with Wild Island Kitchen. If you’re looking for a ‘sea-to-plate’ culinary adventure (and want to avoid the wrong turns I took), Twillingate: Finding My Way Through Fire, Salt, and Sourdough.
3. Western Newfoundland
The outdoor adventure capital of the island.
- Key Features: Gros Morne National Park, the Long Range Mountains, and the city of Corner Brook.
4. The Great Northern Peninsula
A long, scenic stretch of highway known as the Viking Trail.
- Key Features: L’Anse aux Meadows (UNESCO Viking site) and the ferry terminal to Labrador.
Newfoundland Drive Times (Drive vs. Fly)
The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) is the primary artery of the island. Because there are no trains or major transit lines, your choice between renting a car or flying is crucial.
| From → To | Driving Time | Flight Time | Recommendation |
| St. John’s to Deer Lake | ~7 hours | 1 hour | Fly to save time; Drive to see Central. |
| Port aux Basques to St. John’s | ~9.5 hours | N/A | Drive. This is a full-day cross-island trek. |
| Deer Lake to St. Anthony | ~5 hours | N/A | Drive. The “Viking Trail” is a bucket-list drive. |
| Gander to St. John’s | ~3.5 hours | 45 mins | Drive. An easy, scenic afternoon trip. |
The Three Gateways: How to Arrive
Newfoundland is an island, meaning your “Map Strategy” begins with how you physically get your vehicle onto the land.
1. The Southern Gate (Port aux Basques)
This is the most common entry point. A year-round ferry runs from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to Port aux Basques.
- Best for: Travelers focusing on Western Newfoundland and Gros Morne.
2. The Eastern Gate (Argentia)
A seasonal summer ferry runs from North Sydney directly to Argentia (near St. John’s).
- Best for: Those who want to start their trip in the capital without the 9-hour drive across the island.
3. The Northern Gate (The Labrador Crossing)
The “Expedition Route” enters via Blanc-Sablon (Quebec/Labrador border) and crosses to St. Barbe on a 90-minute ferry.
- Best for: Road-trippers completing a loop through Northern Quebec and Labrador.
Frequently Asked Questions
On a map, they appear close, but they are separated by the Cabot Strait. It requires a 6–8 hour ferry ride or a short flight.
If you want National Parks and hiking, use Deer Lake/Corner Brook. If you want culture, history, and food, use St. John’s.
Yes. You must drive to the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula and take the ferry from St. Barbe. On a map, this is the “top” of the island.
Icebergs drift down “Iceberg Alley” along the northern and eastern coasts. The best viewing points are typically St. Anthony, Twillingate, and Bonavista between May and early July.
Summary
This page provides a geographic overview of the island of Newfoundland, emphasizing its four distinct regions and the vital ferry and highway connections that make travel possible. Use this map as a starting point to plan your route, keeping in mind that the best way to see the island is to slow down and enjoy the drive.
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