Spiller's Cove Hike: Twillingate's Hidden Coastal Gem

Kim Martinez
Jul 6
2 min read

Updated: Jul 25

Via French Beach - A Top 10 Adventure

Trail Stats:

- Distance: 3 miles

- Location: Main St, Durrell, NL (follow to the very end - GPS recommended)

- Elevation Gain: 457 feet

- Difficulty: Moderately Difficult

The Perfect Peninsula Adventure

The Spiller's Cove trail follows the dramatic edges of a peninsula dotted with stunning coves. If you imagine dividing this hike into quarters, three-fourths offer spectacular water views from different vantage points, while the final leg back to parking treats you to wildflower meadows, peaceful bogs, small ponds, and a refreshing stretch through the forest.

Before You Even Start Hiking

The beauty begins before you even hit the trail. We couldn't snag one of the handful of parking spaces at the trailhead, but sometimes the best discoveries happen by accident. We parked a bit further down the road at another little cove that practically called out to us for exploration.

This unexpected gem had crystal-clear water and several spots where you could walk right down to the shoreline. We took our time exploring the area – a perfect warm-up for what was to come.

Stay away from the Edge!

Coastal Views That Take Your Breath Away

The water was particularly active during our visit, and with the sun shining brilliantly, it transformed into the most beautiful blue-green color with incredible clarity. The trail winds up and down along the mountainous coastline, but the cliffs are generally too high and steep to access the water directly – with one spectacular exception.

French Beach: The Crown Jewel

French Beach is where this hike truly shines. Here, the trail actually allows you to walk along the beach itself. We saved this for the end of our hike, and I'm so glad we did. We kicked off our shoes and waded into the water – the first time we'd done that on this entire trip!

Yes, the water was absolutely icy, but it felt incredible on a perfect, sunny, 75-degree day in Twillingate. We found areas with more sand than rocks and just soaked in the moment.

The Verdict: Top 10 Material

Sometimes all the factors align perfectly, and this hike is one of those magical experiences. I keep a running mental list of the top 10 things Manny and I have done together, and I just moved this hike into our "Top 10 Hikes" category.

Between the unexpected pre-hike cove discovery, the stunning coastal views, the variety of terrain, and that perfect French Beach finale, Spiller's Cove delivered everything we love about Newfoundland hiking – and then some.