Red Bay and Beyond

As everyone left Mary’s Harbour there was a lot of sorrow in our hearts for Russell & Stephen and their now deceased companion Lulu. I felt particularly bad since there was nothing I could do. But we pressed on and again the roads were terrible. Construction crews were working hard on the roads to widen them. By the end of next summer the road from Port Hope Simpson to Red Bay will be paved. I’m sure that will make a difference in the tourism business.

Construction crew hard at work

Once we reached Red Bay I did my happy dance since all roads from here on are paved. Whether good or bad we will take pavement.

Yeah! Pavement

There is a fantastic museum in Red Bay so we decided to stop for lunch and investigate it.

The Strait of Belle Isle has been home to many inhabitants but most recently it's been the Norse, Basques, French, and English. These cultures were attracted  to the area by the bountiful resources of fish, seal, and whale. In the 1970's a Basque whaling boat was discovery in Red Bay. It is over 400 years old and is the oldest example of its kind on display. 

A Basque Chalupa

Archaeologists have uncovered thousands of artifacts in Red Bay that proves the area was used by Basque whale hunters.

A harpoon

Blue painted porringer common in Spain in 16th century
found in Red Bay

A 16th century galleon believed to be the San Juan was also discovered. The vessel was loaded with 800-1000 barrels of oil. Unfortunately it is thought that it broke it's anchor in a violent storm in 1565 and sank. The galleon was recorded, dismantled, then returned to its watery grave to help preserve it.

Artist's replica of the San Juan Galleon

After touring the museum we all decided to go for lunch at the Whaler's restaurant. The bay was behind us providing wonderful views.

Getting up close to an iceberg

A newer shipwreck lies on the sea floor

Continuing on down the road we leave Red Bay with more knowledge and full bellies. Can't get any better than that. Well maybe seeing a beautiful flowing river is always nice.

Nice view from a bridge

We arrive in West Saint Modeste's Oceanview Campground but they are unable to accommodate the large rigs. So we move on to L'Anse au Clair which is 24 miles down the road. This campground has full service (W/E/S) sites and we are all in heaven. We are here for 3 nights, hallelujah. Let the party or social hour begin.