Vikings in North America - L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland

The Vikings in North America made landfall around 1000 AD and were the first Europeans to set foot in the New World. Located on the tip of the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland, 14 hours from of St John's, visitors will find the historical site of the first permanent settlement of Leif Eirikson.

Leif Eirikson was a Viking from Iceland (related to the Vikings of Norway) who first sailed to Greenland and the coast of Labrador. He made a permanent settlement in a natural harbour near L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland where a camp was established. Today, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the summer, actors and tour guides dress in appropriate Norsemen attire to reenact Viking history to curious tourists. Follow the short hikes to nearby bays and lakes and imagine the ancient Vikings in North America setting up camp and surviving in the New World.

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This photo is courtesy of Denise Gushue as she travelled Newfoundland with her family. Feel free to contact Denise Gushue about your next adventure at 613-838-2517 or by email at denise.gushue@travelcounsellors.ca.

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