W hen Curtis Roebotham first envisioned The Homestead Adventures, his goal was simple: to create a place where people could experience the outdoors in a way that felt immersive, yet approachable. “It’s about offering a space where people can disconnect, reset, and truly connect with the land,” Curtis says. “I wanted to share the beauty of this place and allow others to experience it for themselves.” The Homestead Adventures sits in the community of New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland. It’s part of the scenic “Road to the Shore” route, a region known for its dramatic cliffs, peaceful coves, and cultural heritage. “Our location is everything,” Curtis says. “When guests step out of their tents, they’re greeted by sweeping views of the coast - rolling hills, the sound of the waves, and the crisp air. The sense of peace you feel here is something people really appreciate.” New-Wes-Valley itself is a collection of small communities, rich in history and rooted in the fishing traditions of Newfoundland. It’s an ideal setting for those seeking a slower pace, a connection to land and sea, and the chance to learn by doing. Curtis spent nearly two decades working in hunting and fishing camps across the country as a floatplane pilot. In the off- season, he worked as an occupational safety professional - an experience that helped shape the philosophy behind his business today. “I’m a product of the industry,” he says. “I’ve seen everything from one-star to five-star operations. What I wanted to build was something flexible, where guests of all skill levels and backgrounds could feel welcome.” He returned to his hometown in 2017, got married, and began gradually shaping the land into what would eventually become The Homestead Adventures. Turning that vision into a functioning business required nearly two years of working with the provincial government to secure licensing. His persistence paid off - The Homestead Adventures became Newfoundland’s first officially recognized glamping operation.
“There was no legislation for what I was doing,” he says. “I had to work with government officials to find creative ways to operate within what existed.” Rather than fight the process, he focused on building relationships. “Now I’ve got contacts I can call anytime I have a new idea. It’s gone from me begging for permission to being seen as a partner in the process.” By 2018, they opened their first glamping unit and began offering guided kayak tours. Since then, the site has evolved into a year-round operation offering a mix of nature-based accommodation, hands-on education, and adventure second to none in Newfoundland or anywhere, for that matter. The accommodations at The Homestead Adventures are custom-built canvas structures - similar in design to old prospector tents but outfitted like hotel rooms. Each 14’x 16’tent is set on a wooden base and features a pillow-top mattress and an electric heater. Tents are fully powered and include BBQs, basic cooking equipment, and private decks overlooking the lake. “If you’re looking for a camping experience without the hassle of hauling and setting up gear, that’s what we offer,” Curtis explains. While the tents don’t include in-unit washrooms, each has its own assigned private bathroom in the comfort station - a heated building with showers, sinks, hot running water, and toilets. Activities at The Homestead Adventures are as flexible and personalized as the accommodations. From short recreational excursions to longer skills-based programs, Curtis has designed offerings that allow guests to push boundaries in a safe, supported environment. One of the most popular features is the kayak experience. Tours are offered off-site in nearby Newtown, known as the “Little Venice of Newfoundland” for its protected waterways and scenic vistas. “We’re not flipping people
It’s about offering a space where people can disconnect, reset, and truly connect with the land ” “
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BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 97
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