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Nestled in Newfoundland’s whale-watching territory, along a stunning stretch of road, is the small picturesque town of Bauline South, where Cliffs Edge Retreat commands gorgeous views out to Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

The pounding surf outside my lodge upon arrival sets me into relaxation mode as I unpack for a couple of days of scenic enjoyment at this lovely retreat just over 30 minutes from St. John’s. Check-in is done via an online portal. A link is emailed close to arrival date, and any requests, concerns or questions are monitored via text messages.

The main lodge contains Forager Restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Jeremy Shaw, who celebrates the region’s rich bounty with a small curated menu that changes based on ingredient availability. The restaurant, just under a year old, also has a commanding view of Witless Bay.

Rooms

Choose from one of 12 seaside cottages, five suites, seven studio suites, or an oceanfront room in the main lodge (where I stayed).

Each includes a kitchenette with cutlery and dishware, microwave, coffee maker, full fridge, plus a deck with colourful Adirondack chairs and a BBQ. Lodge rooms offer a shared sauna with view; cottages include a private hot tub or sauna.

The decor is beach vibe meets sleek modern, with lots of unique lighting fixtures, a bathroom with a stone sink, waterfall shower plus bath products by St. John’s own Tvål Skincare, gas fireplace, dining table, king bed, pair of yoga mats (an excellent perk for morning stretches), a work desk and lamp, plus a pair of cozy swivel chairs.

Black and neutral wood accents beautifully complement the woven rug and grey upholstered seating, together with white walls and a trio of monochromatic grey prints on the wall.

I love how the bed, table, swivel chairs and Adirondack chairs out on the deck are all thoughtfully arranged to face the sea. There are plenty of outlets to charge your tech, well-placed at both bedside tables and desk.

Sleep

Waves rock me to sleep as I sit and watch the last drop of daylight leave the sky. Staring at the sea takes on a new art form here, as a combination of foggy/sunny/misty days create an ever-changing landscape. The mattress and bedding are very comfortable and I’m able to sleep off my remaining jet lag.

Dining

Jeremy Shaw is no stranger to the culinary scene, having previously worked at Raymonds Restaurant (an enRoute Magazine Top Canadian Restaurant winner) and The Merchant Tavern, both in St. John’s. The amicable chef lives just down the road from Cliffs Edge, and enjoys incorporating forageable ingredients into each of his creations.

[Chef Jeremy Shaw]

Seasonal dishes use fireweed, fiddleheads, Chanterelle mushrooms, beach greens (Oyster leaf, etc.) and tender, sweet kale. Forager’s pastry chef, Mandi Drohman (originally from Arkansas), has joined from Fogo Island Resort.

I had the chance to meet and briefly chat with Chef Shaw, and asked him what the difference was between living in St. John’s and Bauline South, just a 45-minute drive from the provincial capital. His answer? That one can find an ample variety of local ingredients on hand down here.

An a la carte breakfast is served from 9 am to 1 pm in Forager. They home-smoke their own thick-cut bacon and it’s about the best I’ve ever tasted!

The Resort

Depending on the time of year, puffins, Bald eagles, and migrating whales can be spotted from shore. Nearby trails (Tinkers Point Path) offer more stunning scenery and serene moments following a tasty breakfast.

I’ve been told that the main lodge will undergo soundproofing measures along the main hallway connecting the rooms. Until then, for a quieter stay, I’d recommend checking into one of the cottages.

Cliffs Edge Retreat is located on the Irish Loop at 1 Celtic Rendezvous Place in Bauline South, Newfoundland and Labrador.

I was a guest of Cliffs Edge Retreat for the purpose of this feature. Opinions, as always, remain my own.