Bonavista, NL
Bonavista is a large town that sits on the northern tip of the Bonavista Peninsula. To get there take Route 230 from the Trans Canada. When you get part way into the peninsula, Route 235 is an excellent alternate. It’s a road less traveled, packed with scenery. You may want to drive into Bonavista on 230 and return on 235.
It is believed that Bonavista was the first land sighting for John Cabot on his historic voyage in 1497. Bonavista went on to become one of Newfoundland’s major commercial centres. The town today has over 3,000 people, which makes it large enough to have all the stores and services that you’ll need.
Bonavista is a very pretty town with many well preserved heritage buildings. The town has lots of character with many narrow lane-ways winding between the houses. There are many attractions close to Bonavista, there are also some must-sees right in town.
The Ryan Premises
The Ryan Premises is a National Historic Site of Canada. It is a preserved large-scale merchant operation. James Ryan Ltd. bought and sold salt cod. They supplied fishermen with salt and general merchandise in exchange for their catch. The large white buildings sit on the waterfront in Bonavista. Unfortunately we visited Bonavista after Labour Day and the exhibit was already closed for the season.
Ye Matthew Legacy
The Matthew is the name of the ship John Cabot crossed the Atlantic on in 1497. The Matthew was a caravel, a type of sailing ship used in the 15th century. They have built a replica of The Matthew and have it on display inside a specially constructed building in Bonavista. You can actually go on deck and explore the captain’s quarters and the main deck. The exhibit also includes a gift shop and is a great spot to view the harbour.
Mockbeggar Plantation
The main house at the Mockbeggar Plantation was built in the 1870s and has been restored to 1939 when Newfoundland statesman F. Gordon Bradley lived here. He served in the Dominion of Newfoundland House of Assembly before Confederation in 1949. He helped negotiate the terms of Confederation. After 1949 he became Canada’s Secretary of State, making him the first cabinet minister from Newfoundland.
The house is well worth a visit. It’s not far from the Matthew exhibit. Follow the signs or ask for directions, the streets in Bonavista are a little confusing.