Fogo Island Inn, Fogo Island, Newfoundland

By Rose Filice

A proud fixture on the northeast coast of Fogo Island, Newfoundland, the strong, contemporary lines of this luxury property lie in stark contrast to the rocky terrain on which it is perched. Yet it perfectly embodies the culture and traditions of the community and land on which it resides. Designed by Newfoundland-born, Norway-based architect Todd Saunders, local influences are felt throughout the inn, from its elevation on steel stilts, reminiscent of traditional fishing stages, to the outport furniture, fixtures and textiles adorning the public spaces and guestrooms, made by island artisans.

Floor-to-ceiling windows in each of its 29 suites offer sweeping views of the North Atlantic, while heated natural wood floors, wood-burning stoves, custom-made natural-fibre beds and colourful heritage quilts from the local guild—each with their maker’s name sewn on the tag—create a welcoming retreat.

Meeting Magic
This warm, inviting atmosphere with spectacular vistas is carried throughout the public spaces, designed to cultivate meaningful gatherings and inspired thinking. Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, the inn offers a 1,400-sq.-ft. conference hall with numerous breakout areas, a 450-sq.-ft. study, and a cinema that seats 37. Receptions of 174 can be held in the art gallery, while more intimate events are well-suited to the library, which specializes in local literature. The stunning views and ambient sounds of lapping waves make the 1,130-sq.-ft. rooftop deck a natural choice for receptions of up to 160.

Newfoundland native Chef Murray McDonald is at the helm of the inn’s culinary team, finding inspiration in the locally-grown ingredients and seaside bounty to create a new Newfoundland cuisine for the 48-seat dining room and 35-seat lounge. Plan a team outing with the chef, foraging for ingredients, discussing Fogo Island’s relationship and history with food and learning to create modern cuisine with a local flair.

Fogo Island has a variety of activities to suit the most diverse group: View 10,000-year-old icebergs, explore your creative side with artist-led workshops and watch Humpback and Minke whales jump and play in the water. Island ambassadors are available for guided activities and signature experiences that can be tailored to meet the needs of your group. You can even take long walks with Make and Break, the inn’s loyal Newfoundland dogs.

Cost: From $875 per night (full board rate starts at $1275 per night). Group rates are negotiable and include all meals, amenities and a three-hour teambuilding program or excursion. fogoislandinn.ca