Duntara: A Hidden Coastal Gem for Photographers
Duntara, a small fishing village on the Bonavista Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a picturesque and peaceful destination for photographers. With its rugged coastline, historic homes, and vibrant fishing heritage, this charming town offers stunning seascapes and authentic glimpses into traditional Newfoundland life. Surrounded by breathtaking ocean views and rolling hills, Duntara is an ideal location for capturing the raw beauty of Newfoundland's coastal landscape.
Best Photography Opportunities
Photography Tips
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vast coastal landscapes and dramatic cliffs, while a telephoto lens is essential for photographing distant wildlife and fishing boats. A sturdy tripod is recommended for long exposures, particularly for seascapes and night photography. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting conditions, with golden hues adding warmth to the landscape. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance the deep blues of the ocean and sky, while a neutral density filter allows for long-exposure shots of waves crashing against the shore.
Best Time to Visit for Photography
Spring (April–June) offers a chance to capture icebergs drifting past the coast and the arrival of seabirds nesting along the cliffs. Summer (July–August) brings lush greenery, warm temperatures, and active fishing communities, making for vibrant and lively compositions. Autumn (September–October) transforms the landscape with brilliant fall colors, creating striking contrasts with the deep blue sea. Winter (November–March) presents dramatic, windswept scenery and opportunities for capturing the power of the Atlantic during storm season, as well as potential glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Getting There & Accessibility
Duntara is located on the Bonavista Peninsula, approximately a 3.5-hour drive from St. John's. The village is accessible via Route 235, a scenic coastal drive that passes through several picturesque communities. While the town itself is small and easily explored on foot, the rugged coastline requires caution when navigating cliffs and rocky areas. Travelers should be prepared for strong coastal winds and variable weather conditions.
Nearby Photography Destinations
: A historic town with stunning coastal views, Bonavista is home to the iconic Cape Bonavista Lighthouse and offers excellent opportunities for photographing rugged cliffs and puffins. The town's charming streets and historic fishing buildings add to its appeal.
• Elliston
: Known as the "Root Cellar Capital of the World," Elliston is famous for its unique rock-rooted cellars and its thriving puffin colony. The puffin viewing site here is one of the best in Newfoundland, allowing for close-up shots of these charismatic seabirds.
• Trinity
: A beautifully preserved historic town featuring colorful heritage homes, cobblestone streets, and a picturesque harbor. Trinity is an excellent location for capturing Newfoundland's architectural history and maritime charm.
• Port Rexton and the Skerwink Trail
: One of Newfoundland's most scenic hiking trails, the Skerwink Trail offers breathtaking coastal vistas, dramatic sea stacks, and expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a must-visit for landscape photographers seeking dramatic compositions.
• Keels
: A small but incredibly scenic fishing village with unique geological formations and a strikingly rugged coastline. The old wooden fishing stages and rolling landscapes make it a great spot for rustic and rural photography.
Comments
Loading comments…