Fogo Island, Newfoundland, is a place unlike any other. A remote island off the coast of an island, Fogo is known as one of the four corners of the earth.
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The island has long offered its visitors a journey back in time. Just a decade ago, it was nothing more than a remote fishing village. Today, it has become one of Canada’s most sought-after travel destinations, drawing in those seeking a unique and meaningful escape.
Thanks to the transformative impact of the Fogo Island Inn, which opened in 2013, the island has become a success story in sustainable tourism. The Inn, a stunning example of modern architecture built with nature and community in mind, effectively put Fogo Island on the global map.
While the Inn continues to be the island’s biggest drawcard, we can attest from firsthand experience that the island is worth a visit, whether you can splurge on a stay at the Inn or not.
Having now visited the island twice, we’ve had a chance to explore most of its attractions, enjoy its breathtaking scenery, dive into its history, and soak up the warm hospitality of its residents.
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Read on to learn everything you need to know about visiting this remote but stunning part of Newfoundland.
About Fogo Island
Fogo Island is the largest of the Newfoundland islands at 237.3 sq km. It’s located off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Canada, in Notre Dame Bay. The area is also called “Iceberg Alley” because of the many icebergs that float on the North Atlantic Waters.
Fogo Island has had a long history as a fishing community. 11 fishing settlements dating back to the 18th century called its rocky coast home. The island’s cultural heritage goes back even further, with archeological evidence of Beothuk fishing camps along the main coast.
Fishing was the town’s main source of livelihood until the cod stocks ran out, leading to the industry’s collapse in 1992. In the years that followed, Fogo Island transformed into a resilient community, with islanders embracing small-scale entrepreneurship, tourism, and the arts, with significant support from the Shorefast Foundation. Established by Zita Cobb, the foundation played a crucial role in revitalizing the island economy, helping create jobs and attracting global attention.
The opening of Fogo Island Inn in 2013 accelerated the process. Today, Fogo Island exemplifies how thoughtful, community-focused tourism development can revitalize an area.
Trust us when we say you won’t find a destination like it! Intrigued? Want to know more?
Let’s start with some essential travel info!
How to Get to Fogo Island
By Car/Ferry
Most visitors reach Fogo Island by car and ferry. Major car rental agencies operate out of Gander and St. John’s.
From Gander, it’s about an hour’s drive on Route 330 north to the ferry service in Farewell Harbour. From St. John’s, the drive takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
The ferry to Fogo Island operates year-round, offering departures several times daily. The ferry ride ranges from 45 minutes (direct) to 1 hour and 15 minutes (with a stop on Change Islands). The fare is $8.50 for a single passenger and $25.50 for both vehicle and driver.
By Air
Via Private Charter: The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador operates a 3,000 ft (914m) airstrip on Fogo Island. The airstrip is primarily used by private and charter flights from Gander, St. John’s, and Deer Lake.
Via Helicopter: On my recent visit to Fogo Island, I had the opportunity to experience a helicopter transfer, a service organized by the Fogo Island Inn. The scenic flight, operated by Raven Helicopters Canada, took just 30 minutes from Gander airport. It is a worthy splurge for anyone staying at the Fogo Island Inn.
Getting Around Fogo Island
By Car: There are no car rentals available on the island. If you are hoping to explore the island on your own, you must rent a car in Newfoundland and take the ferry to Fogo Island.
By RV: A Campervan or RV is another great alternative to exploring Fogo Island. It’s how we got around during our first visit. With a couple of campgrounds on the island and a few wild camping spots, it’s a destination we found to be pretty easy to explore with an RV.
Best Time to Visit Fogo Island
Unlike the rest of Canada, Fogo Island follows 7 distinct seasons that are based on certain wind, weather, and lifestyle changes reflected throughout the year.
Winter (December-February). A fluffy layer of snow, averaging 11.5 feet, covers the entire island while the average high hovers just below freezing. Snowmobiling, skating, snowshoeing, and tobogganing are great ways to enjoy these winter months. Meanwhile, frozen ponds are perfect for ice fishing and outdoor hockey games.
Pack Ice Season (March). The Labrador Current brings sparkling ice floes toward the shores, signalling the start of the pack ice season. The ice floats and sparkles under the sunlight, and seals love to hop on board. With longer and sunnier days, this time is ideal for landscape and wildlife photography.
Spring (April-May). These cold months see lingering snowfall. Average highs stay below 50°F (10°C), and the temperature gradually increases as months pass. Once the snowfall tapers off, ponds thaw, plants begin to sprout, and outdoor footpaths and trails start opening up.
Trap Berth Season (June). This season was named after markers for cod trap fishing births that were traditionally dropped on June 1st at 12:00 pm each year. Long, warm days welcome blooming wildflowers while bobbing icebergs and passing whales can be spotted offshore.
Summer (July to August). This is the best time to visit Fogo Island as the weather is nice and warm. Summer is mild, with an average high of 71°F (21°C), perfect for spending sunny days outdoors. Lots of Fogo Island tours and charters are seasonal and are mostly available during this time.
Berry Season (September to October). This season is marked by sweet, edible berries that can be found across hills and barrens. Anyone can take their pick of blueberries, mash berries, cowberries, and partridge berries! With the islanders known to have their secret hidden berry spots, berry picking offers a unique way to interact with Fogo Islanders.
Late Fall (November). As the weather gets unpredictable, this month is mainly spent being cozy indoors. It’s the rainiest season, with an average 3.5in of precipitation. Temperatures dip into the lower side of mild with an average of 50°F (10°C), and as typical in the North Atlantic, snowfall begins as early as November and lasts well into April.
Best Things to do in Fogo Island
The island may look small, but full of activities and incredible stories. Plan to spend at least a few days on the island, exploring its small communities and attractions.
Stay at the Fogo Island Inn
Fogo Island Inn offers an immersive, all-inclusive hospitality experience that has earned it a reputation as one of Canada’s top hotels. This architecturally stunning hotel is bound to become a home away from home and a stay you will never forget.
During my recent visit to Fogo Island, I spent two nights at the Inn, and I can honestly say it was the most meaningful and intentional stay I’ve ever had.
The hotel operates as a social enterprise and plays a huge role in the overall economic development of this small community. There are 29 one-of-a-kind guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that give you a breathtaking view of the mighty ocean. The Nordic-style rooms are artfully designed with custom-made, organic, natural-fibre beds and locally crafted furniture and textiles.
But for me, it wasn’t the rooms that made for an incredible stay. It was the hyper-local incredible meals at their on-site restaurant; it was the daily activities, like hiking, tea foraging and guided tours with local storytellers; it was the fiery sunsets and moments of reflection, and it was knowing that 100% of the revenue surplus from each stay is reinvested into the community through the work of the Shorefast Foundation.
Join a Walking Tour of Tilting
A visit to Tilting is a must for anyone coming to Fogo Island, and there is no better way to experience this small community than on Al’s Walking Tour. As someone who was born and bred in Tilting, Al is full of fascinating stories and tales about life in Tilting and gives you an opportunity to see the island from a local’s perspective. Hands down, it’s our favourite Fogo Island experience!
Hike the Lion’s Den Hiking Trail
Lion’s Den is another great trail in Fogo. The trail offers great views and a colourful mix of vegetation and wildlife along the trail. The loop is relatively easy at 4.2 km long, with markers that have interesting information about the history of the area. The leisurely hike is perfect for soaking up panoramic views over the Atlantic.
Hike Brimstone Head at Sunset
Brimstone Head in Fogo is an incredible place to catch a sunset on Fogo Island. Take the 2 km (1.2 mi) trail up the stairs to a gorgeous lookout point, known as one of the four corners of the earth.
Visit the Fogo Island Marine Interpretation Centre
Travel back in time and learn more about the Fogo Island’s fishing industry. The tour will take you to the F.U. Trading Co. Museum, Cod Liver Oil Factory, and the Funk Island Great Auk Exhibit. The centre is open during the summer months, June to September from 10AM to 6PM daily. Admission fee is $5 per person.
Have Cod at the Cod Jigger Diner
It’s no surprise that Newfoundlanders and, particularly, residents of Fogo Island have survived for generations on cod and potatoes. There is no better place in town to sample some freshly caught local cod than at the Cod Jigger Diner. Get the fish and chips, and be sure to inquire about the significance of their table design.
Visit Living Water Farms
Since Fogo isn’t exactly a hotspot for agriculture, the folks at Living Water Farms have shifted to vertical farming. They now produce lettuce, kale, arugula, and other greens for the community of Fogo Island and beyond. Stop by their storefront in Stag Harbour for a hydroponic farm tour or to pick up a pack of greens for your next meal.
Join a Hands-on Workshop at Fogo Island Workshops
Fogo Island Workshops is a community business owned by Shorefast Foundation. The woodshop produces finely designed chairs, tables, and other smaller furnishings, while its textiles feature knits and quilts. Island visitors are welcome to meet the makers on-site and learn about the handcrafted elements of each piece. Hands-on workshops that offer a deep dive into activities like quilting, boat building, and foraging can also be arranged ahead of time.
Shop for Fogo Island Quilts and more
Fogo Island quilts are quite famous, and you can find them among other handmade products in local arts and crafts stores. Our favourites were Mona’s Quilts & Jam Shop in Joe Batt’s Arm and Herring Cove Art Gallery in Shoal Bay.
Explore the Island’s Villages
If you have your own car, spend a day exploring Fogo Island’s communities. Visit quaint villages like Joe Batt’s Arm, Tilting, and Seldom to experience the local culture, architecture, and hospitality.
No vehicle? No problem. The Fogo Island Bus Tour will take you through the island’s villages and cultural centers from Stag Harbour Ferry Dock. The base rate is $85 per person, with a minimum of 3 passengers. Be sure to schedule well in advance, as most tours are seasonal.
Take a Boat Tour
A boat tour around Fogo Island is a must for those looking to experience the island’s dramatic seascapes and abundant marine life. Depending on the season, you can witness towering icebergs, playful puffins, and majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Fogo Island Boat Tours, operated by Captain Tony and his crew out of Joe Batt’s Arm, offers scenic boat tours of the coastline. Rates vary, and schedules are weather-dependent, so contact the team via social media for more details.
Search for the Great Auk Sculpture
Located at the end of the Joe Batt’s Point Trail, the Great Auk Sculpture is a poignant tribute to the now-extinct bird species that once inhabited the island’s shores. This striking, larger-than-life sculpture by artist Todd McGrain is part of the Lost Bird Project, which commemorates species lost to extinction. The sculpture not only serves as a reminder of the fragility of life but also provides a stunning vantage point overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Explore the Fogo Island Arts Studios
The four Fogo Island art studios are a testament to the island’s thriving contemporary art scene. These architecturally stunning studios are home to an artist-in-residence program, where creatives from around the world come to draw inspiration from the island’s rugged landscapes. Each studio, located in different communities across the island, offers a unique perspective on how art and nature intertwine.
While the opportunity to create and work in these studios is reserved for a select few, the chance to visit them and admire their architectural wonder is available to all. The studios are scattered around the island, and each one is unique and beautiful in its own way.
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Restaurants on Fogo Island
We’ll be honest, there are not a plethora of restaurants on Fogo Island. In fact, dining can actually be a bit of a challenge for those visitors who are not staying at the Fogo Island Inn. With only a handful of restaurants scattered around the island, you may find yourself eating at the same spot more than once.
Here is the list:
The Cod Jigger Diner
As mentioned earlier, the Cod Jigger Diner is a spot worth visiting. This casual diner offers local cod and other simple and familiar dishes like poutine. Prices are reasonable, and portions are large, making this a great place for a family dinner. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 9 PM and Sunday from 10AM to 8PM.
Bangbelly Bistro
Bangbelly Bistro in Fogo is probably one of the nicer restaurants on the island. It had nice ambiance and a drink menu that features an impressive wine list and local beers. While slightly more upscale, the menu features unfussy comfort food options made with locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is only open in the summer, from May to September. Regular hours are Thursdays to Sundays from 11AM-8PM, and closed Mondays through Wednesdays.
The Storehouse
Located in Joe Batt’s Arm, The Storehouse is a new restaurant by Shorefast Foundation that celebrates Fogo Island’s culinary traditions with a contemporary twist, highlighting local seafood, berries, and root vegetables in familiar dishes like fish and chips. More than just a place to eat, it serves as a community hub, offering cooking classes, recipe-sharing, and other social learning opportunities. We didn’t get a chance to eat here first hand, but the reviews are fantastic, far surpassing expectations for a small restaurant in such a remote area.
Rock Bridge Cafe
This charming cafe located in Tilting offers a simple menu of homemade baked goods, soups and sandwiches, and other light bites. Great spot for lunch or an afternoon tea break. We found the cafe to be popular with locals and ended up chatting it up with a few during our visit.
Punchbuggy Pizza and Coffee
The Punchbuggy is a fairly new addition to Fogo Island. A sister restaurant to Bangbelly Bistro, this walk-up window has become a popular spot in Joe Batt’s Arm for home-made pastries, Roman-style Pinsa, and specialty coffees.
Growlers Ice Cream Shop
A hidden gem in Joe Batt’s Arm, Growlers is another business supported by the Shorefast Foundation and is a favourite on the island. The shop offers handmade ice cream in regional flavours like Partridgeberry Jam Tart, Blueberry, Strawberry Rhubarb Sorbet and more. The shop is only open in the summer, and operates from 1-8PM.
Where to Stay: Fogo Island Accommodation
If you can splurge on a stay at the Fogo Island Inn, this beautiful community-focused hotel would definitely be our top recommendation for places to stay on Fogo Island. But if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, there are a few other options to consider.
The Old Salt Box Homes
The Old Salt Box Co. has created a collection of beautifully restored heritage homes located on Fogo Island as well as in Twillingate on Newfoundland’s main island. There are 3 homes in the town of Fogo, each one is a cozy 2 bedroom unit with a bath and kitchenette. The homes offer unique accommodations that captures the charm and history of traditional Newfoundland saltbox houses.
Peg’s Place
This bed and breakfast has been operating in Fogo since 2003 with the simple goal in mind to provide an exceptionally clean, comfortable place to stay. The property is located in the heart of the community of Fogo, and consists of 6 private Queen/Twin rooms with ensuites. Homemade breakfast is included in the room rate, as is the hospitality of the hosts, who live in a separate unit on-site – close enough to offer help but far enough not to intrude on your stay.
Brimstone Head RV Park
Those considering traveling with a campervan or RV will be pleased to know about Brimstone Head RV Park, a great campground for tents and RVs located at the base of Brimstone Head.
There are 20 sites with electrical and water hookups, 7 with electrical hookups, and a few sites for camping with tents. Park amenities include washrooms, shower facilities, a beach with fire pits, a ballfield, and a dumping station.
It’s one of the most picturesque campgrounds we stayed at in Newfoundland and a perfect spot to catch a sunset.
The Bottom Line
Fogo Island is a hidden gem with its remarkable location, stunning natural scenery, and fascinating history. It’s a great place to disconnect and to appreciate the beauty of a small town.
And it’s the kind of place that once you visit, you just keep wanting to go back to…
