A truly fascinating hidden gem with an incredible backstory! What looks like a simple, cool passage is actually a monument to 19th-century engineering and Newfoundland's prosperous seafaring history. During its 19th-century prime, Brigus was a major maritime powerhouse for the sealing and Labrador fishery, known for its strategic, deeply sheltered harbor. Because the port became so overcrowded, the only remaining deep-water spot capable of docking a massive new ship was cut off from the town by a giant, solid rock ridge. The rest of the harbor waters were too shallow for the large vessel, and hauling heavy cargo up and over a steep rocky cliff was extremely difficult. So, in 1860 a Cornish miner - John Hoskins - was hired who constructed this historic, hand-drilled, 80-foot passage blasted through solid rock with gunpowder to facilitate easy cargo movement. If you are in the town of Brigus, this is an absolute must-visit to see this rugged engineering feat up close and experience a unique piece of Newfoundland's seafaring history. read more

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