Making the most of L Anse aux Meadows Newfoundland
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
As cruise ships are not able to dock here you will be tendered ashore.
The settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows has been dated to approximately 1000 years ago, an assessment that agrees with the relative dating of artifact and structure types. The remains of eight buildings were located, believed to have been constructed of sod placed over a wooden frame. Based on associated artifacts, the buildings were variously identified as dwellings or workshops. The largest dwelling measured 28.8 by 15.6 m (94.5 by 51 ft) and consisted of several rooms
Getting around
The reconstructions of three Norse buildings are the focal point of this archaeological site, the earliest known European settlement in the New World. The archaeological remains at the site were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Exhibits highlight the Viking lifestyle, artifacts, and the archaeological discovery of the site. Visitors can also explore the hiking trails to nearby bays and lakes.
Nearby places
Visit the Norstead which is about 1 mile down from the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historical Site; you will find yourself in a reconstructed Viking port of trade. Visitors are given the opportunity to experience traditional Norse games and learn how to spin yarn or to make pottery.
Food and shopping
The Artisan’s Marketplace at Norstead in L'Anse aux Meadows opens to the schedule of visiting cruise ships. Vendors wear traditional Norse costumes; many of these products were made by the town’s talented craftsman and artists.
Money
Canadian dollar
You will find ATMs in many grocery stores, malls, airports and so on, and most are linked to the international networks, the most common being Cirrus, Plus, Star and Maestro. You can also grab cash from an ATM if you use a major credit card although this method tends to be more expensive because, in addition to a service fee, you'll be charged interest immediately.
Staying connected
In Canada the main languages are English 59.3%, French 23.2% (both official); other 17.5%. Quebec and New Brunswick being the most "French" The rest of the country is English speaking.