Bay d'Espoir

Driving into Bay d'Espoir

Turning off Route 360 onto Route 361 takes you to the top of Bay d'Espoir. As you proceed you will notice the rich woodland areas where logging has traditionally represented the bulk of the areas economy. Vistas of the mouth of Conne River can be spotted as one begins their journey on Route 361. Visit the communities of Milltown-Head of Bay d'Espoir, Morrisville, St. Veronica's, St. Joseph's Cove and St. Alban's.

The Aquaculture industry is prevalent in this area and represents approximately 90 percent of Newfoundland and Labrador's finfish industry. Salmon and Steelhead Trout represent the bulk of what is produced. There are many places to buy fishing supplies throughout the area. The Bay d'Espoir hydro generating station supplies much of the province with its electrical power. Tours can be arranged by appointment. Stop and try you hand at mini golf near the Milltown Lions Club.

Each year, the communities of Bay D'Espoir come together for an annual fundraiser for the local Cancer Support Group.  It is held during the weekend of Bay d'Espoir Day and promises to be an entertaining and fun-filled day for the whole family.

There are a variety of accommodations available in the area including motels, bed and breakfasts, and cabins. A number of swimming holes are located in the area, however these are unsupervised and swimming is at your own risk.

A medical clinic and a pharmacy are located in the town of St. Alban's. In addition, just about all your needs can be met in a variety of stores and service stations in the area. Dumping and water stations (Near the Firehall in both St. Alban's and Milltown) are available in the area for those visiting by recreational vehicle. In addition, anyone seeking to explore the area from above, helicopter and fixed-wing air service is available at Conne River.

Driving into Conne River

Once back on Route 360, you can proceed down route 365 into Conne River and explore the Miawpukek First Nation. This Mi'Kmaq reserve is the only one of its kind in Newfoundland. Visit the craft store and take a piece of Mi'Kmaq culture home with you. In early July visit the annual Powwow and experience traditional dancing and drumming and participate in a variety of activities that reflect the Mi'Kmaq culture in Newfoundland. Take the opportunity to view the traditional canoe, which was built using traditional methods and materials, and was the means to which Newfoundland become a very important part of the Mi’Kmaq Nation.

Other Scenes of Bay d'Espoir

For more information, contact:

Coast of Bays Arts & Exploration Centre
P.O. Box 10
Conne River, Newfoundland
A0H 1J0
Canada
Tel: (709) 538-8776 (Seasonal)
Fax: (709)882-2292,
E-Mail: aecentre@mfngov.ca