On Route 510, the famous Trans-Labrador Highway, Penney's Pitstop is exactly what the name promises: a stop. And on a road where you can count the services on one hand, that's precisely what you need. At 200 Route 510, in Port Hope Simpson — a village of about 400 people founded in 1934 — the place is the gathering point for travellers and locals alike.
You'll find gas and diesel, a well-stocked convenience store, pet supplies, auto services and something to eat. A nice little surprise: Penney's Pitstop also showcases « Timeless North » Indigenous crafts, a fine selection of handmade pieces that tell the heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. A good chance to bring home a souvenir that means something.
For the night, we're a long way from a proper serviced campground: this is a highway pull-off, frankly, with no pool and no activities. But after more than 280 km of Route 510 with not much in between, a safe, level place to settle in, with a charge for the Tesla and a coffee within reach, is worth its weight in gold.
That's part of the charm of this kind of trip too: accepting that some nights are purely practical. Port Hope Simpson sits well for tackling the coastal stretch toward Mary's Harbour, Red Bay and L'Anse-Amour the next day. And the village itself, tucked along Alexis Bay, has plenty of character.
-A highway stop above all, not a serviced campground — but perfect for what we were after.
-Gas, diesel, convenience store and auto services on site.
-A fine selection of « Timeless North » Indigenous crafts.
-A handy base on Route 510, where services are scarce.
-Well placed to tackle Mary's Harbour and Red Bay the next day.
-The overnight rate means being billed for the fast charging.
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