Bell Island is an active community situated in Conception Bay. Ferry service out of Portugal Cove runs year round on an hourly basis, give or take.
Portugal Cove is roughly 15 min from St. John’s and the ferry ride is about 20 minutes. Time this right and you are there in less than an hour from St. John’s!
There are 3 communities on Bell Island, Wabana being the largest. In the 1890’s the island economy rapidly expanded with the opening of iron ore mines.
These mines extended out under Conception Bay. Bell Island was one of the few locations in North America to experience enemy action during the war. In 1942, in 2 separate attacks, 4 iron ore carriers were sunk and 70 men lost. By the 1960’s the iron ore mines, being too expensive to run, were closed down. Initially many families left the island to live closer to work in St. John’s. More recently people have been building and living on the island, commuting by ferry every day to and from work.
The island is approximately 6 miles long by 2 miles wide. So do not worry about getting lost! Our first stop was at the Bell Island Lighthouse and The Keeper’s Cafe and Interpretation Centre. Just follow the signs once you leave the ferry. This is a gorgeous spot with amazing views of the surrounding cliffs. Grab a bite at the cafe, the food is great.
The Gregory Normore Coastal Walking Trail traverses this piece of land and you will want to take a nice hike along this coast. This trail goes almost around the entire island!
We simply drove around the island and enjoyed the scenery. We stopped at the Lance Cove Beach & Seaman’s Memorial.
Click here for other communities nearby
Support Bob’s Newfoundland and use our Amazon shopping links:
