Port Aux Basques:

There is fog rolling in and out at Port Aux Basques. The interplay with the sun creates an eerie and mystical effect. There is a band playing in the public square. As the fog rolls in, and out, the band fades in and out of view. Amid the playing, the fog horn occasionally sounds out.

Before heading out, I stop for a light meal in Port Aux Basques at a charming little café. It's got plenty of atmosphere, serves good food, and prices are reasonable. So I'm surprised to hear that they will be closing up at the end of the month due to lack of business. Especially so since café is located at a mere 7 minutes from the Marine Atlantic ferries.

Rose Blanche: (Rose Blance)

A different day and a totally different setting as I linger on the southern coast from Port Aux Basques to Rose Blanche. This is an enjoyable and often overlooked side trip. But it's worth the detour. The peculiar name evokes a white rose. But this is actually an English pronunciation of an French name. It was originally called Roche Blanche by the French settlers, meaning white rock. Over time, this has evolved and today the official name is Rose Blanche.

What's in a name?

I suspect that the name Rose Blanche may be somewhat of a liability for tourism. For example, I bypassed it on my first two trips to Newfoundland, mistakenly thinking that the area somehow referred to white roses.

But the original name of Roche Blanche (white rock) refers to the prevalent white quartz rock seen in plentiful abundance throughout the area. In fact, at some points, it almost feels like you could be riding on another planet as you look out over fields of solid white quartz rock.

I've always loved the way weather systems set a mood.

15 minutes down the road, and the weather is totally different. Typical.

Can you follow the curvy road as far as it goes? I was on the side of the road when I snapped this.

The light gets interesting in late afternoon.