Bay de Verde Peninsula · Newfoundland
Where the Atlantic Meets Ancient Stone
A historic outport village at the tip of the Avalon Peninsula — National Historic Site, wild coastline, and icebergs at your doorstep.
Brought to you by the Grates Cove Heritage Committee.
Our Story
Five Centuries of Sea, Stone & Settlement
Grates Cove sits at the northernmost tip of the Avalon Peninsula — a place so close to Europe that some believe John Cabot himself landed here in 1497. A mysterious rock bearing inscriptions fuelled that legend for centuries.
Permanently settled in 1790, the community grew into one of Newfoundland’s most productive fishing outports. Its distinctive stone walls — built by Irish-rooted settlers to protect gardens and livestock — now form one of Canada’s most unique National Historic Sites.
Discover Grates Cove
Explore Grates Cove
Historic Rock Walls
Wander 150+ acres of stone walls built by early settlers — a rare surviving landscape unique to Newfoundland outports.
National Historic Site
Trails & Big Hill
Hike the Big Hill boardwalk for a sweeping panorama of the village, the cove, and the open Atlantic beyond.
Free · All Seasons
Stage & Cookhouse Museum
Step into the past at this free heritage museum — a window into the lives of Newfoundland's fishing families.
Free Admission
Cabot Rock Legend
Visit the monument to the legendary inscription rock — tied to John Cabot's 1497 voyage to the New World.
Heritage Site
Dancing Place Pond
Paddle the still inland waters surrounded by coastal barrens — a serene contrast to the wild Atlantic cliffs.
Paddling · Nature
Local Food & Art
Discover unique culinary experiences, local artisans, and creative retreats inspired by the rugged landscape.
Food · Culture
Nature & Wildlife
A Front-Row Seat to the Wild North Atlantic
Grates Cove sits near Baccalieu Island — home to Newfoundland’s largest seabird colony
Plan Your Visit
Getting to Grates Cove
Located at the very end of Route 70 on the Bay de Verde Peninsula, Grates Cove rewards the journey. Drive down the dramatic hill into the village and feel the world slow down.
| Route | Take Route 70 north through Bay de Verde to the very end |
| From St. John’s | Approximately 2 hours by car |
| Parking | Free daytime RV & vehicle parking available |
| Best Time | June through September for wildlife and wildflowers |
| Trails | Open year-round, free of charge |
| Note | Watch for moose — especially in fog or after dark |