On the Edge of the World: A Journey Through the East Coast Trail
There are few places on earth where the transition from modern luxury to raw, untamed wilderness is as seamless as a single footstep. At Cliffs Edge Retreat, this isn't just a metaphor, it is the physical reality. As the only luxury accommodation located directly on the East Coast Trail and perched on the very lip of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, this is the perfect place to experience Newfoundland’s coastal majesty, with all its grace and its grit.
The Hiker’s Home Base
Starting your trek at Cliffs Edge Retreat sets your day of exploring off on the right foot. With no need for commutes or shuttles, you simply lace up your boots, open your door, and find yourself on one of the world’s most celebrated coastal paths. Head north toward the Spout or explore the local coves, then return to warmth and solitude in your own private hot tub or ocean-facing sauna.
Tasty Tip: Leave the trail mix in your pack and level-up your lunch with a custom picnic packed by our team at Forager Restaurant. With a menu inspired by the coast and the forest, Forager ensures your snack stop at a scenic lookout becomes a five-star culinary event at altitude.
Points of Interest & Hidden Gems
The stretches of trail surrounding the property offer some of the most dramatic geography on the Avalon Peninsula:
The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve: Right at your doorstep, this reserve protects North America's largest Atlantic Puffin colony. During late spring and summer, the islands are a dizzying swirl of wings and birdsong.
The Spout: A natural wave-powered geyser located a moderate hike away. It’s a spectacular display of the ocean's power, shooting spray high into the air with every rhythmic surge of the tide.
Berry Head Arch: A magnificent limestone sea arch that serves as a testament to the thousands of years of coastal erosion.
La Manche Suspension Bridge: Along an easy trail from Tors Cove to the former settlement of La Manche is an impressive 50m suspension bridge. See otters, nesting puffins, and other tidal life along the way.
Life on the Rocks
The trail is alive with resilient species of plants from mosses to lichens, flowers to evergreens. Wander through Tuckamore where hardy, wind-stunted spruce and fir trees grow twisted into surreal shapes by the whipping winds off the ocean. Along the forest floor, look for pink clusters of Sheep Laurel and the delicate Twinflower.
Keep your eyes on the horizon for Humpback and Minke whales, which are frequent visitors to these deep coastal waters. On land, the bald eagle is a common sentinel on the high cliffs, while playful red fox often make appearances along the wooded sections of the trail.
Hiking the East Coast Trail is an exercise in perspective. It reminds us of the scale of the ocean and the resilience of the land. By choosing a home base that sits in harmony with these elements, you don't just visit the trail, you become part of it, at least for a little while.
