A Slice of Newfoundland Part 1. Robert’s Arm
To go or not to go? That was the question.
Why would anyone travel to Robert's Arm when there are so many other places to explore in Newfoundland you may ask?
Yeah, that's a good question. After I booked my flight and looked up where is was, (in that order) I asked myself that very same question dozens of times. The answer is, I have family there. So on June 22, I packed up my bag and camera gear and set off for the adventure. We landed in Deer Lake and made the 2 1/2 hour drive to my uncle's place in Robert's Arm.
Robert’s Arm, Newfoundland
Moose Burgers anyone?
Our first stop on our way to Don’s place was at a Chip Truck where we met Velma and Barry who just also happen to run the Junction Inn at Baie Vert Junction in Sheppardville. As soon as we arrived, I knew I had made the right decision and was going to have a great adventure and creating some amazing pictures. Only in Newfoundland can you order a MOOSE burger and Squid rings. And no I did not try them. I stuck to the sweet-potato fries.
Welcome to Robert’s Arm
Robert's Arm, Newfoundland, is a cute coastal town on Notre Dame Bay.
This picturesque town is oozing in maritime heritage and resilience dating back to the early 19th century. The town's natural beauty and warm welcome makes it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It is surrounded by rugged landscapes, including rolling hills, pristine lakes, and breathtaking sea scapes.
Robert's Arm, was first settled by Irish immigrants and quickly became an important shipbuilding and trade center. There's a lot of history in the tiny town thanks to its well-preserved culture, charming harbour, and stunning coastline. The stories of fishermen braving treacherous waters and the legacy of its close-knit community continue to inspire those who walk the streets of Robert's Arm.
I heard a joke once about Newfoundland that goes something like this:
2 tourist were in lost in Newfoundland and asked a local: “Excuse me sir but where does this road lead to?” To which the local replied: "Ah baille, she leads straight to Irland, but she washes out at the light house.” Ha! Ha!
Now that I have been, I know why is this is so funny….cuz it’s true.
The Stage is Set for the Show
In Newfoundland fishermen use stages to prepare and process their catch of the day. A stage is a simple structure, usually made of wood, strategically positioned along a shoreline that serves as the center of activity for fishermen, their catch and the community. Some are painted with very bright an colourful hues while others are weathered by the sun and salty air. In Newfoundland's fishing culture, it’s common to see equipment and fishing gear scattered around and witness the various stages of the fishing process. Robert's Arm is known for its abundant fishing, where locals and visitors can try their hand at catching salmon, trout, or even participating in the world-renowned cod fishery. Unfortunately the cod fishing season was starting the day after we left. But lucky for us, my uncle had some frozen from last season and oh boy, it did not disappoint.
Fishing Stages
Our cod dinner seasoned with a special mix I bought in Kings Point at a souvenir shop served with baby potatoes and broccoli.
