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Trails, Tales & Tunes Festival happening May 2014 – Mark your calendars
The 8th annual Trails, Tales and Tunes Festival takes place from May 16-25, 2014 in Norris Point, Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador. I’ve been attending the festival, since the 5th Annual and it always has me coming back for more. I recommend you visit their website and use the schedule to plan a week, weekend or enjoy the entire festival in the heart of Gros Morne National Park www.trailstalestunes.ca.
In 2012, I pitched my tent and enjoyed the amenities of Norris Point’s own KOA campground. While last year, I made it a personal weekend away and spent it at the magnificent Neddie’s Harbour Inn (www.theinn.ca), which is the perfect get-a-way as it is a waterfront property nestled between the Long Range mountains and the tablelands. There are many options from tenting, RV parks, hostels, cabins, cottages, bed and breakfasts, lodges, inns and motels in and around beautiful Norris Point to fit any budget.
The festival hosts an ideal opportunity to visit Gros Morne early, hear the many wonderful storytellers and musicians at various venues, as well as enjoy the vast walking trails. There is also a long list of food options and various activities and entertainment throughout the week. It is likely one of the best weekend’s you’ll experience in the park.
I encourage you to participate and then work your way up the northern tip of the Great Northern Peninsula.
Live Rural NL – Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthPicture Perfect in Norris Point
Norris Point is picture perfect. A beautiful community surrounded by the mountains and pristine waters of Bonne Bay.
I spent a lot of time on the beach growing up in Green Island Cove, hearing the waves gently touch the shoreline, picking mussels or throwing rocks. However, the beach was not sandy like the one here in Norris Point. There is something about sand, that makes me want to stop and play for a little while, whether it be writing my name, building a castle or getting my toes buried into the fine grains. On many of my vacations, I have a photo of “Christopher” and ‘whoever’ ‘place’ and ‘year’ drawn in the sand. There is something special about the water that will also have me coming back for more.
I made a few footprints in the sand on this beautiful March day in Norris Point back in 2011. These old photos remind me of the prayer, “Footprints in the Sand” which reinforces about in times of need, we should look back and see the footprints in the sand to realize that Jesus is, has and always will by our side.
Enjoy Sunday and Live Rural –
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Footprints in the Sand (elevatedlove.wordpress.com)
Even with Grey Skies Gros Morne National Park is a Gem of the Great Northern Pen
Even when skies are grey, Gros Morne National Park is a gem to drive on the Great Northern Peninsula.
It never ceases to amaze me – the natural beauty of this Provincial wonder, that attracts 180,000+ people annually to visit this place. The reflection of the rock onto the glazed body of water is to be embraced with a warm smile.
I always spend some time at the National Park – there are many walking/hiking trails and an array of outdoor activities that include a Boat Tour of Western Arm Brook or kayaking in the heart of scenic Bonne Bay. Even the beginner can enjoy a cheap canoe rental at the KOA campground in Norris Point. I rented one for an hour for just $10.00.
No matter what age or interest, Gros Morne National Park is to be explored and experienced. After you have had your visit, be sure to head North for several days and it would also be a treat to add Labrador to your journey.
The Great Northern Peninsula awaits, whatever the season you choose to dig in and enjoy our nature, culture and lifestyle!
Live Rural NL –
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Gros Morne Theatre Festival Opens May 26, 2011
The Gros Morne Theatre Festival will commence on Thursday, May 26, 2011 and continue daily throughout the summer with its final show on Saturday, September 17, 2011.
Positive word of mouth from friends and colleagues that had seen a show was more than encouraging. I decided to make extra effort in 2010 to ensure I made this a priority. I attended the dinner theatre, “Sinking of the S. S. Ethie” with a friend from Montreal, QC at a rate of $45.00. It was certainly worth it. Two plus hours of entertainment by talented and professional actors/actresses working for Theatre Newfoundland & Labrador, as well as, pan-fried cod and all the fixing served by those on stage during their intermission. We enjoyed the show enough to buy tickets for the double feature, “A Double Axe Murder”. This play is based on a murder mystery of the area in the 1800s. Very intriguing.
Being a local, I heard pieces of the story and previously visited the site of shipwreck as a young boy with my father. It is funny the things you sometimes remember, but beyond the rusty remains of the Ethie there was an abundance of very smooth and colourful round rocks. I picked one of my favourites and brought it back to the cabin at Sally’s Cove.
If you would like some wonderful entertainment, check out the shows at Gros Morne Theatre Festival, Cow Head.
This year the shows are:
- Ed & Ed’s B&B – Comedy
- Neddy Norris Night – Cabaret
- Winter – Drama
- Stones in His Pockets – Comedy
- Tempting Providence – Drama
- Sinking of the S.S. Ethie – Dinner Theatre
- The Oracle of Gros Morne – Drama/Comedy
There will also be workshops and special events throughout the season. I am looking forward to getting to see Tempting Providence and others throughout the summer season.
For more information or reservations visit www.theatrenewfoundland.com or call toll-free 1-877-243-2899.
Live Rural NL –
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Related articles
- 5th Annual Trails, Tales and Tunes Festival Officially Opens Today (liveruralnl.com)
- Sandy Beaches at Norris Point, Gros Morne National Park (liveruralnl.com)
- Scenic Gros Morne National Park (liveruralnl.com)
Million Dollar View w/Product & Service to Match
- Neddie’s Harbour Inn & Fine Dining Restaurant
On May 11, 2011, I had the opportunity to drop by Neddie’s Harbour Inn & Restaurant. I had heard so many wonderful things about the food at the restaurant. Listed on the door were three stickers, Where to Eat Canada 2008, 2009, 2010. This seal of approval from the food critique validates the quality and experience one may attain when dining at the restaurant with the million dollar view. Last year, I tried to get a reservation but could not wait the several hours for a table. I will try again this year, but be sure to book in advance (table #3 if possible).
The business was opening for the Fifth Annual Trails, Tales & Tunes Festival (www.trailstalestunes.ca); however, the front desk employee greeted us with a smile and was more than happy to give myself and a colleague a full tour of the property. We were taken into multiple rooms, which are breathtaking. The linens were rich bright whites, with the proprietor’s own special piece of art attached. The color palette is used throughout the inn. The views from each room is a little different, the blinds offer the ability of privacy and still maintain a view. There are comfortable chairs, lots of space and splendid decor that creates a happy space. The vessel sinks in the bathroom is also a nice touch.
- Guest Room at Neddie’s Harbour Inn
The 15 rooms have bright solid wooden doors with nice trim. Each room is named for different communities or places in and around the local area, engraved in a wooden plate. Each room has wired and wireless internet and comes with a unique breakfast offering. Amenities include a fitness centre, infrared sauna & whirlpool (booked by room for additional privacy). There is a common sun room with a bar, musical instruments, reading material, games and licensed patio – all overlooking the water and mountains.
The accommodation also has 4 houses in Norris Point that is available for rent.
Million Dollar Views at Neddie's Harbour Inn
A walk around the outside of the property gives you a view of the rock garden, the water, mountains, tablelands and rural living. If you need to take a break, they have an incredible rock picnic table. I can only imagine the beautiful sunsets at this location.
Thank you to J. for providing the incredible tour. It is evident the Joy you take in your jobs. As well, to the owners and other employees that make this business offering available to your patrons. It truly is a wonderful gem, nestled at the heart of Gros Morne National Park.
If you would like more information, please feel free to visit their website at www.theinn.ca
Live Rural NL –
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Related articles
- 5th Annual Trails, Tales and Tunes Festival Officially Opens Today (liveruralnl.com)
- Scenic Gros Morne National Park (liveruralnl.com)
- Sandy Beaches at Norris Point, Gros Morne National Park (liveruralnl.com)
