Presents
Burden's Point - For Sale
The Getaway at
Burden’s Point
Salvage, NL
1.14 acres of waterfront solitude and exclusion, where the Dunn House and Burden House stand as refined examples of vernacular Newfoundland architecture at its best
Designed as either a personal retreat for one or two families with the option of continuing to cater to the tourists on the Eastport Peninsula. The property also lends itself to beautifully as a wellness destination or artist-in-residence sanctuary.
Welcome to The Getaway at Burden’s Point, a magical retreat on the Eastport Peninsula of Salvage, Newfoundland. This property features two fully restored and spectacularly renovated heritage saltbox homes that punctuate this mystical coastal locale and serve as beautifully articulated architectural nod to its storied past.
A Beautifully Storied Past
Burden’s Point is one of the earliest settled areas of Salvage, which itself is one of the oldest communities settled by Europeans on the island of Newfoundland. Settlers from the south of England, as early as 1667, were attracted by the cod fish trade due to the excellent microclimate for drying salt fish and the proximity to the fishing grounds. Captain James Cook mentioned the passing of Salvage when he circumnavigated Newfoundland in 1775.
This ruggedly picturesque property was also known as the Pickersgill Premises, in honour of Peter and Lisa Rae Pickersgill who were faithful custodians of Burden House (c. 1912) and Dunn House (c. 1914) for many decades. Recently, in collaboration with Reflect Architecture, the residences have been reimagined and thoughtfully brought to life in a way that evokes the region’s architectural vernacular, while also accommodating for thoroughly modern living.
An Architectural Balancing Act
The two homes and studio are set on an iconic peninsula amid the naturally protected harbour, offering shelter from the North Atlantic. The homes have undergone a comprehensive architectural transformation under the direction of award winning Reflect Atchitecture. Central to the approach was a disciplined restraint, eschewing overt design statements in favour of thoughtful reinterpretation of the original structure. The careful balance enhances contemporary comfort while preserving enduring character of the homes and their presence within the iconic landscape. Thoughtful detailing, material selection and colour choices gently reinterpret the space to suit discerning contemporary tastes and lifestyles. The result is an architectural balancing act that deftly navigates the needs of modern living, while paying homage to the site’s breathtaking panoramic vistas and the historic surrounding community, while preserving both houses’ longstanding presence on the landscape.
New elements have been introduced sparingly and with intention, with new white exterior siding and galvanized steel roofs serving as a durable response to the off-season harsh environment. Across both elevations, windows are traditionally scaled and spaced. The sole exception is a large window on the Burden House’s north facing elevation, which offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape and ocean
From afar, both residences, defined by simple rectangular volumes and gabled roofs, appear much like they would have in centuries past, albeit with some nuanced updates and improvements. Projected window boxes, for example, frame windows on both structures. While such detailing is not historic, it creates new visual interest via long shadows cast across exterior surfaces, loosely inspired by the work of Newfoundland born painter Christopher Pratt.
Contemporary Design, Inspired by Newfoundland Tradition
The interior draws inspiration from the simplicity and integrity of the original white shiplap, resulting in a crisp , modern aesthetic that feels both grounded and timeless. The Burden House (which was electrified after over a century off-grid), reused interior framing and cladding wherever possible, while floors were patched and painted. The Dunn House required more extensive interior renovations, with the interior cladding being replaced entirely.
Plans were informed by the orientation and circulation of historic Newfoundland homes, although carefully adapted to meet contemporary lifestyles. Living, dining, and cooking spaces are located on ground levels. The Burden House features an expansive kitchen and dining space, whereas the smaller Dunn House contains offers a more relaxed family room with an open kitchenette and dining area. Both kitchens are constructed of Baltic Birch plywood, and butcher block to reference the type of materials and fabrication methods available locally. Furniture was similarly selected for its ability to convey the simplicity and spareness inherent to life in traditional Newfoundland outport communities.
Each home includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms providing comfort and flexibility for both private use and hosting.
To realize the residence’s purpose as an escape from the elements, colour blocking emerged as an important tool for delineating spaces. It serves as a contemporary stand-in for the layers of wallpaper found in traditional Newfoundland homes. Bedside lamps and built-in platform beds are inspired by the berths of a ship.
The setting is truly unparalleled—offering a sense of peace and solitude without isolation. Access is effortless, with a short boat ride or sheltered 15 minute walk across the harbour on the Damnable Trail connecting you to the broader community. This is a place where life unfolds as if within the pages of a design magazine—yet just beyond your door awaits hiking, boating, and the raw beauty of Newfoundland’s rugged coastline.
Local residents are available and willing to provide water transport if desired as an alternative to using personal watercraft for return trips. If personal watercraft is your option, there is a harbour authority which offers berth space at very moderate rates on the two floating docks bordering the new Salvage Longhouse https://www.salvagelonghouse.com/
WELCOME TO THE ROCK
The Eastport Peninsula in the central part of Bonavista Bay extends from Terra Nova National Park and follows an irregular coastline along Newman Sound to the south, around the community of Salvage, Newfoundland. There are seven communities on the peninsula with Eastport being the largest with a population of approximately 550. The area features an expansive sandy beach and is also home to the annual Winterset in Summer Literary Festival. wintersetinsummer.ca
GOLF
Twin Rivers: The 6,546-yard, Par 71, award winning course has hosted numerous Provincial and National competitions. This seaside course that criss-crosses two salmon rivers combines a challenging but fair layout with breathtaking views, making Twin Rivers a must play course for players of all skill levels and providing an unforgettable golf experience.
Eagle Creek Golf Course: This 2,593-yard, par 35 course offers a challenge to the seasoned golfer as well as serving as an alternative venue for those wanting a shorter program. Named after the bald eagles that are frequently seen over Clode Sound, this under the radar full 9-hole course is an added treat for golfers.
THEATRE
Come From Away: If you’re visiting during the season, consider making a trip to Gander, located about an hour away from Salvage. It’s more than just an airport - it’s the backdrop for the acclaimed musical “Come From Away.”
“Come From Away,” written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the heartwarming true story of how the people of Gander welcomed 7,000 stranded travelers after their planes were grounded due to the September 11th attacks. The musical captures the incredible generosity and kindness shown by the residents of Gander during a time of global crisis, making it a must-see for any visitor to the area.
HIKING & OUTDOORS
Damnable Trail: Hikers of all levels will find their perfect adventure on the Damnable Trail network, conveniently located right on the doorstep of Burden’s Point. Choose your own adventure from a variety of day hikes, each offering a unique experience in terms of difficulty, distance, and scenery. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing stroll or a challenging adventure, the Damnable Trail has the perfect path for you
Hansford Hiking Adventures: Experience the untamed beauty of Newfoundland’s Eastport Peninsula with Hansford Hiking Adventures. Local expert Karen Saunders offers both popular and custom-designed hikes, ensuring a perfect fit for your skill level and interests. As your regional tour guide, Karen can handle all the details of your trip, from booking hikes and excursions, to making restaurant reservations
Happy Adventure Inn: A haven for seafood lovers and adventurers alike, offering unforgettable boat and kayak tours on the scenic Newfoundland coast. Explore hidden coves, spot marine life, like whales and puffins, and discover the region’s unique history and landscapes. Whether you choose a relaxing inshore tour, an exciting offshore adventure, or a tranquil kayak excursion, Happy Adventure Inn has the perfect experience for you. Complete your day with their renowned fish and chips, dubbed the “best in the new world.”
The Getaway
Put simply, The Getaway at Burden’s Point is a magical setting that stirs the imagination and represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you wish to consider taking over custodianship or have any questions about this property, please call, text, or email Chris O’Dea at the coordinates below
The price consideration for both homes is $1,100,000.
For further information, please call Chris O’Dea at 709-785-6559 or chrisodea49@gmail.com
Enjoy the remaining photos
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