Welcome to Francois

Remote Shores, Remarkable Spirit

Tucked along Newfoundland’s rugged south coast, the outport of Francois is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Explore Francois
A view of a narrow, deep canyon with steep, rocky walls leading down to a calm body of water, with green vegetation on the slopes and a cloudy sky above.
Illustration of a landscape with a dirt path, yellow field, green mountains, and pink sky with clouds.

Where History Meets the Sea

Set at the end of a small fjord on Newfoundland’s south coast, Francois blends striking coastal scenery with generations of fishing heritage and resilient community spirit.

Getting here
A stylized illustration of a volcanic landscape with mountains, a volcano, and a body of water, framed in a yellow and black border.
A Gyrfalcon standing on rocky ground with patches of snow and dried grass in the background.
Illustration of a lighthouse on pink land surrounded by pink and purple palm trees, under a blue sky with clouds and birds, enclosed in an orange oval frame.
A small village with colorful houses along a waterfront, surrounded by steep green mountains and rocky cliffs under a clear blue sky.

Off the Port Side

Nestled along Newfoundland and Labrador’s rugged south coast, Francois is a remote outport community accessible only by ferry or air. With colourful homes perched along the hillside and the Atlantic stretching wide beyond the harbour, life here is shaped by the sea, tradition, and a deep sense of community.

For generations, fishing was the heartbeat of Francois. While the cod moratorium changed the course of the town’s economy, it never diminished its spirit. Today, Francois remains a place where neighbours look out for one another, stories are shared freely, and visitors are welcomed like old friends.

Find accomodations
Illustration of a scenic landscape featuring a canyon with red and pink cliffs, a river flowing through it, and a sky with a few clouds.

Whether you’re exploring Newfoundland’s outport heritage or simply seeking quiet coastal beauty, Francois offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Illustration of a postage stamp featuring a desert landscape with a red rock formation, a greenish sky with dark clouds.
Houses and boats along a waterfront in a coastal village.

A Community Built on Resilience

Like many Newfoundland outports, Francois was shaped by the sea. For generations, families built their lives around the fishery, creating a strong and enduring connection to the ocean. Today, residents continue to honour their heritage while looking toward the future with determination and pride.

The spirit of Francois lives in its people — in the stories told on the wharf, the music shared in kitchens, and the unwavering connection to place.

Learn about our history
  • Coastal landscape with hillside houses, a small beach, and rocky green terrain.

    Hike up Flagstaff Hill for sweeping views of Rencontre and the surrounding coastline.

  • A narrow river flows between steep, rocky mountains at sunset, with a small boat on the water.

    Visit the resettled community of Cape La Hune—known locally as “Q-sock.”

  • A person standing on rocks in a river in a lush, green valley surrounded by steep mountains under a cloudy sky.

    Cast a line and try your luck fishing for brook trout in the waters around Francois.

  • A large cruise ship named Adventure Canada docked in a foggy harbor with a small town on a hillside in the background.

    Take an Adventure Canada expedition cruise and experience the beauty of Francois from the sea.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Francois is accessible by ferry from Burgeo or by air. There is no road access, which is part of what makes the community so unique and peaceful.

  • Visitors can find local accommodations within the community. It’s recommended to plan ahead and arrange lodging before arriving.

  • Explore the harbour, take in scenic coastal views, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, learn about the town’s fishing heritage, and connect with locals.

  • Late spring through early fall offers the most predictable weather and ferry schedules. Summer is especially beautiful, with long daylight hours and vibrant coastal scenery.

Map showing a boat route from Burgeo to Francois with stops at Grey River and another location, including routes 480 and various inlets and waterways.

Plan Your
Dream Trip

Ready to experience one of Newfoundland’s most unique coastal communities? Learn more about what to expect when visiting Francois.

Start planning