Newfoundland is one of the most interesting and beautiful places in the world. A place of rugged, unspoiled beauty, it is a land of vast forests, towering mountains, pristine lakes and rushing rivers. With a history dating back to the Vikings, it is a place of mystery and legend, of stories of smugglers and pirates, of lost settlements and forgotten mines. The people of Newfoundland are warm and friendly, and the culture is unique, a blend of Irish, English and French influences. There is much to see and do on Newfoundland, from whale-watching and iceberg-hunting to hiking and fishing. The island is also home to some of the most charming villages in Canada, each with its own distinct character and history.