
Elliston Root Cellars
Discover Elliston, the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World,' where quirky history meets abundant puffins and dramatic coastal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for puffin viewing

Elliston Root Cellars
Best Time
Best for puffin viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Elliston, the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World,' where quirky history meets abundant puffins and dramatic coastal beauty.
"Cool and creepy....root cellars at Elliston among the puffins. These doors are speckled all around this town."

🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Explore the town on foot to find the most charming root cellars and scenic coastal spots. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for puffins, root cellars, and stunning ocean views. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Root Cellars
Throughout Elliston
Discover over 130 historic underground root cellars, a unique architectural marvel of Newfoundland.

Puffin Colony
Coastal areas of Elliston
Witness thousands of puffins nesting on the cliffs during the summer months. A true wildlife spectacle!

Coastal Scenery & Sea Stacks
Elliston coastline
Marvel at dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines, and impressive sea stacks sculpted by the Atlantic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Charm
Puffin Paradise & Coastal Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Explore the town on foot to find the most charming root cellars and scenic coastal spots. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for puffins, root cellars, and stunning ocean views. :camerawithflash:
🦤 Puffin Etiquette
Observe puffins from a distance and avoid disturbing their nests. :bird:
🗺️ Explore Nearby
Elliston is close to Bonavista and Maberly, offering more to see. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
Explore the town on foot to find the most charming root cellars and scenic coastal spots. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for puffins, root cellars, and stunning ocean views. :camerawithflash:
🦤 Puffin Etiquette
Observe puffins from a distance and avoid disturbing their nests. :bird:
🗺️ Explore Nearby
Elliston is close to Bonavista and Maberly, offering more to see. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are charmed by Elliston's unique identity as the Root Cellar Capital and its abundant puffin population. The quirky historical cellars and stunning coastal scenery are consistently praised. Some find dining options limited within the town itself, suggesting nearby Bonavista for more choices.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elliston is located on the Bonavista Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador. The easiest way to reach it is by car, typically driving from St. John's. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours. You can also fly into St. John's International Airport (YYT) and rent a car.
Public transportation options are very limited in rural Newfoundland. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Elliston and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The best way to explore Elliston is by car to reach different viewpoints and cellar locations. Once you're in the vicinity of a cluster of cellars, walking is ideal for discovery.
While there aren't many formal 'root cellar tours,' local tourism information centers or accommodations might offer insights or self-guided route suggestions. Many visitors enjoy simply driving and walking around to find them.
Roads in Elliston are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for winding coastal roads. Always check local weather conditions, especially outside of summer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to see the root cellars. They are part of the town's landscape and can be viewed freely as you explore.
Generally, there are no specific entrance fees for the natural puffin viewing areas. However, always be respectful of private property and follow any posted guidelines.
The best time to visit for puffins is typically from late May to early August. For general exploration and pleasant weather, summer months (June-August) are ideal.
Root cellars are historical structures and do not have opening hours. They are accessible to view from the outside at any time.
While Elliston is a small community, you can often find local information at nearby tourism offices in Bonavista or through local accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastline offers stunning photo opportunities with sea stacks and rugged cliffs. Many root cellars are also photogenic, especially when framed by the landscape. Sunset can be particularly beautiful.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the vastness of the coast, and a telephoto lens is useful for puffins.
Yes, you can take photos of the puffins, but always maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in public areas. However, be mindful of private property if you are exploring near residences.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for puffin viewing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Elliston is a small community, and dining options might be limited. You'll find more extensive restaurant choices in nearby Bonavista.
Expect fresh seafood, particularly cod and lobster, as well as traditional Newfoundland dishes.
Small communities like Elliston may have local cafes or convenience stores. For more variety, Bonavista is your best bet.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea to enjoy the scenic coastal views. There are many beautiful spots to stop and eat.
Dining hours can vary, especially in smaller towns. It's advisable to check with local establishments or plan meals in Bonavista.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options can be limited. Consider a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenic coastal views. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the terrain. The relatively short driving distances between attractions make it manageable for younger children.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond the puffins, the dramatic coastal scenery is a major attraction. Explore the rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for other seabirds and marine life. The natural beauty of the area, with its wild roses and windswept landscapes, offers a true taste of Newfoundland's untamed charm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating History of Root Cellars
Exploring Elliston means stumbling upon these historical gems. They are not just relics of the past but a testament to the resourcefulness of the people who settled this rugged land. While many are no longer in active use for storage, they remain a significant part of the town's identity and a draw for curious visitors. Some are remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of self-sufficiency.
When visiting, take the time to appreciate the craftsmanship and the sheer number of these structures. They are often integrated into the natural terrain, making their discovery part of the adventure. Look for the distinctive doorways peeking out from hillsides or nestled into the landscape.
Puffin Encounters: A Wildlife Spectacle
To maximize your chances of seeing puffins, aim for early morning or late afternoon when they are most active, flying to and from their burrows. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds or their nesting sites. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to observe their behavior from afar. The sight of thousands of puffins dotting the cliffs is truly a breathtaking spectacle.
Beyond the puffins, the coastal environment of Elliston is rich with other seabirds and marine life. The dramatic cliffs themselves provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography and a sense of the raw beauty of the Newfoundland coast.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit