Canada Guide
Newfoundland and Labrador
Quidi Vidi village
Tiny QUIDI VIDI ("kiddy-viddy"), a couple of kilometres north of the city centre, is a well-known beauty spot, where a handful of old fishing shacks are backdropped by sharp-edged cliffs and set beside the deep-blue waters of a slender inlet. A spate of new construction has robbed the village of much of its charm, but it is home to both Mallard Cottage Antiques (May– Sept daily 10am–5pm), in an attractive old building dating from the 1750s, and Quidi Vidi Brewery, which occupies the old fish plant. The brewery offers tours and tastings year-round (times and bookings on 
709/738-4040; $5) and you should look out for their well-regarded "1892 Traditional Ale". From the centre of the village, it's a short walk east to Quidi Vidi battery (late May to late Sept daily 10am–5.30pm; $3), which overlooks the narrow channel that connects the inlet to the sea from the side of a hill. The gun battery has been restored to its 1812 appearance, when it was readied against potential attack from the US.
To get to Quidi Vidi from the city centre, take Forest Road from beside the Fairmont Newfoundland Hotel and keep going – or take Metrobus service #15 from Plymouth Road on the harbourside of the same hotel. En route, you'll travel the length of Quidi Vidi Lake, the site of the annual Royal St John's Regatta, held every August. This is one of the oldest sporting events in North America, featuring fixed-seat rowing races and a huge garden party.