Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Pleasant Bay
A perfect base for exploring the park, Pleasant Bay is a carved-out bit of civilization
hemmed in on all sides by wilderness. It's an active fishing harbor known for its whale-
watching tours and Tibetan monastery. If you are in the area on Canada Day (July 1), try
to be in the stands for the annual monks versus townspeople baseball game. There are
lots of fish-and-chip and burger places around town, but no really special places to eat.
Sights & Activities
Gampo Abbey
MONASTERY
( 902-224-2752;
www.gampoabbey.org
; tours 1:30-3:30pm Mon-Fri Jun-Sep)
This abbey,
8km north of Pleasant Bay past the village of Red River, is a monastery for followers of
Tibetan Buddhism. Ane Pema Chödrön is the founding director of the abbey and a noted
Buddhist author, but you aren't likely to see her here as she is often on the road. You can
visit the grounds any time during the day, but you get a more authentic experience with a
tour - a friendly monk escorts you.
Whale Interpretive Centre
MUSEUM
( 902-224-1411;
www.whalecentre.ca
;
104 Harbour Rd; adult/child $5/4; 9am-5pm Jun-Oct)
Stop here before taking a whale-watching tour from the adjacent wharf. Park entrance
permits are for sale, and internet access is available at the C@P site downstairs.
Pollett's Cove
HIKING
The popular, challenging 20km-return hiking trail to Pollett's Cove begins at the end of
the road to Gampo Abbey. There are great views along the way and perfect spots to camp
when you arrive at the abandoned fishing community. This is not a Parks Canada trail, so
it can be rough underfoot.
Captain Mark's Whale &
Seal Cruise
BOAT TOUR
( 902-224-1316, 888-754-5112;
www.whaleandsealcruise.com
;
adult $35-44, child $15-22;
May-Sep)
Depending on the season, two to five daily tours can be taken in the lower-
priced 'Cruiser' motorboat or closer to the action in a Zodiac. Captain Mark promises not
only guaranteed whales, but also time to see seabirds and seals, as well as Gampo Abbey.
There's a discount of up to 10% if you reserve a spot on the earliest (9:30am) or latest
(5pm) tour. Tours leave from the wharf next to the Whale Interpretive Centre.
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