Holyrood

The cross on George Cove Mountain is symbolic of Holyrood. A hiking trail leads to it and offers views of Holyrood along the way. The trail thus combines a distinctive destination with a view of the town. The George Cove Mountain Cross was restored on June 30, 1992, and is maintained by the Town of Holyrood. If you enjoy hiking to a specific destination, this gives you a reason to experience Holyrood from the perspective of the trail as well.

History and Places of Remembrance

On the north side of the harbor, off Back Road, lies Chapel Cemetery. It has historical and spiritual value as the oldest known consecrated Roman Catholic cemetery in Holyrood. Its location and religious character give the site a distinctive historical context. Veitch House is also one of Holyrood’s historic buildings: it is one of the town’s oldest buildings and, at the same time, an example of a Second Empire-style wooden house in Newfoundland. These two sites thus offer different perspectives on history side by side—a cemetery with religious significance and a building that represents the architecture of its time.

Another historical detail can be found at Fjordheim in Holyrood. The municipal heritage designation includes the surviving original section of the Olsen House, the former servant’s house, and an arched entrance made of whale bones. Those interested in local architectural and commemorative history will encounter different kinds of historic sites in Holyrood.

Nature, Water and Activity

Hawke Hill Ecological Reserve protects Arctic-alpine plants and contains North America’s easternmost alpine barrens. Access is on foot; motorized vehicles are not allowed. The protected plants and distinctive alpine landscape give this natural area its own focus among the experiences in Holyrood.

For a walk by the sea along the harbor, the Holyrood Boardwalk is one option. Holy Cross Swim Park is a swimming facility supervised by lifeguards.

At Salmonier Nature Park in Holyrood, visitors can observe Newfoundland and Labrador wildlife up close. This is a distinct nature experience alongside the protected plant area and the trail to the cross. Holyrood’s annual events calendar also includes the Crystal Carnival. Wildlife viewing, a walk by the harbor, swimming, and an events calendar featuring the Crystal Carnival appeal to different travel interests, without needing to be combined into one outing. If you like to plan your trip around a festival, the Crystal Carnival can be incorporated into your plans differently from the nature and historical sites also mentioned; the annual events calendar may be relevant when checking what is on during your travel dates.

Your choice of a vacation rental in Holyrood may depend on which of the experiences described will shape your trip.

Discover More Destinations

More destinations: Bay Roberts, Dildo, Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove, Brigus, Witless Bay, Carbonear, Green's Harbour, Whiteway.

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 1.