Newfoundland & Labrador’s
Burin Peninsula
French Island Drive
THE FRENCH ISLAND DRIVE leads you through the Burin Peninsula's western horizon from
Point May northeast to Garnish on Route 220, and then back around to link in with Mariner
Drive.
Due to its longstanding association with the richest fishing grounds in the world, this land holds
an important place in the province's history. The vastness of sea, land and azure sky is
inspiring as the French islands of St. Pierre et Miquelon sit mystically on the horizon.
Fortune, from the Portugese "fortuna" meaning a place of good fortune, was built on the shore
of a sand bar, or "barasway," along an inlet forming the harbour and extending inland for
approximately 8 km (5 mi). Located in a shallow valley, the town is surrounded on the eastern
and southwestern sides by low rolling hills, rich in geological history. The Fortune Head
Ecological Reserve is globally recognized as the best place to mark the evolutionary change
from Precambrian to Cambrian period. Earth science history and cultural history are found at
Fortune Head Geology Centre, and the George & Mary Lake House respectively. Find the
Fortune Sheds at the nearby Marina and visit the All Saints Anglican church which has the first
stained glass window crafted in Newfoundland.
St. Pierre et Miquelon is only a short distance from Fortune by
ferry. These islands, to the southwest, are France's last outpost
in North America, and are a fast path to experience the
character of continental Europe. The rhythms of Saint Pierre
are similar to their French homeland. Here residents rise early
to buy freshly baked bread, enjoy a comfortable afternoon
siesta and later dine in a rich culture of French wine & cuisine.
Travel Documents are required. Canadians must carry an
official government issued photo ID or passport. European community visitors must have a
valid passport. Other nationalities require a valid passport and may need a visa, depending
upon the nationality. Children must have their own passport or ID card or be registered under
their parents' passport. For information phone Immigration SPM (508) 41-1555.
Grand Bank, is yet another culturally and traditionally significant community. The town's name
has often been attributed to the bank fishery south of the peninsula, but in fact it refers to a
high bank extending from Admiral's Cove to the harbour at water's edge. Grand Bank Brook
forms a small harbour where it empties into the bay and the valley is sheltered by four hills.
The Grand Bank lighthouse remains an important town icon.
The past has not yet been lost on Grand Bank. It's Victorian structure and architecture are from
the Bank Schooner days. The tapered twisting streets are suggestive of communities in Nova
Scotia and the New England states, where the merchants and captains did business.
The famous Grand Bank's schooner fishery was started when Samuel Harris built the first of
the lustrous, prevailing vessels in 1881. The Harris House, which is a Queen Anne style manor
with a "widow's walk" on the roof, is an admired heritage home.
The Southern Newfoundland Seamen's
Museum is a landmark attraction. Initially the
Yugoslav Pavilion at Expo `67, this distinctive
sail shaped building is home to many full scale
exhibits including dories, engines, propellers
and anchors. The artwork, maps and
interpretive displays supply important keys to
understanding and appreciating the Grand
Bank's fishery.
Molliers, which had once been a small fishing
village, has now become a popular area for
cabins and camping. Grand Beach is a
community that was named for its long beach.
Have a look at it's root cellar. Frenchman's Cove has a popular provincial park and the Grande
Meadows Golf Course. This 9 hole course is complemented by a unique seaside location and
a long golf season. Enjoy beach combing on it's miles of beaches!
The community of Garnish has deep roots to the inshore fishery. There's a century old
lighthouse to explore, and hiking along the beach or on Long Ridge Hiking Trail. The Point
Rosie ATV/Hiking Trail to the deserted community of Point Rosie covers an incredible 25 km of
coastline.
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