Fogo Island

A remote and artistically vibrant island known for its colorful traditional houses, contemporary art scene, and rugged coastal beauty. It's become a destination for creative tourism, local culture, and stunning seascapes, accessible by ferry from Farewell.

Things to do

• Fogo Island Inn — Stay at or visit this architecturally stunning hotel designed by Todd Saunders, perched on stilts overlooking the Atlantic with artist residencies and cultural programming.
• Sundown Town East — Explore this restored traditional fishing village with colorful row houses, local artisan shops, and galleries showcasing contemporary and folk art.
• Brimstone Head Trail — Hike this scenic coastal trail offering dramatic cliff views, seabird colonies, and access to one of the island's iconic geological formations.
• Iceberg Watching — View icebergs drifting past the island's coast during spring and early summer, a spectacular natural phenomenon unique to Newfoundland's waters.
• Artist Studio Visits — Tour working studios of local painters, sculptors, and craftspeople throughout the island, many opening their spaces to visitors during summer months.
• Fishing Village Photography — Document the island's distinctive saltbox houses painted in brilliant blues, yellows, and reds, creating some of Atlantic Canada's most photogenic scenes.

Food to try

• Fish and Brewis — A traditional Newfoundland comfort dish of salt cod and hardtack bread served with scrunchions (fried salt pork), representing generations of fishing culture.
• Toutons — Pan-fried dough bread served with molasses, a beloved breakfast staple that reflects the island's heritage cooking methods.
• Local Crab and Lobster — Fresh Atlantic seafood caught by island fishers, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants or purchased directly from fishing communities.
• Seal Flipper Pie — A traditional island delicacy featuring seal meat in a savory pie crust, representing the historical subsistence practices of Fogo Island.
• Partridgeberry Preserves — Homemade jams made from wild berries native to the island, available at local shops and perfect for gifts or breakfast spreads.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fishing Heritage — Acknowledge that the island's identity is deeply rooted in cod fishing and seal hunting; approach these traditions with cultural sensitivity and genuine interest.
• Plan Around Ferry Schedule — The ferry from Farewell is essential access and operates on specific schedules; confirm crossings in advance as weather can cause delays or cancellations.
• Embrace the Artist Community — Fogo Island has become a hub for contemporary artists and cultural workers; attend workshops, exhibitions, and community events to fully experience the island's modern creative identity.
• Prepare for Remote Island Life — Limited services, accommodations, and restaurants exist outside summer season; book lodging and dining ahead, and bring supplies for extended stays in quieter months.