Red cliffs of the Magdalen Islands. Source: Navigateur Millerand, 2023.
Nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and rich in history and tradition, the Magdalen Islands are the ideal destination for recharging your batteries in the heart of unspoiled wilderness. From red cliffs and sandy beaches to picturesque villages, this little corner of paradise promises breathtaking scenery and authentic experiences. Here's a guide to help you plan your Magdalen Islands vacation.
When should you visit the Magdalen Islands?
Temperature
The maritime climate of the Îles-de-la-Madeleine, due to the huge body of water that surrounds the archipelago, moderates the climate and makes it milder in every season. Winter is mild, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C. Although snow is frequent, it doesn't stay on the ground because of the winds. The islands have the fewest days of frost in Quebec each year. Spring is cool and autumn warm, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Summer heatwaves were non-existent, with temperatures on long days varying between 15 and 25°C. Now the weather is changing and the heat is intensifying. Although temperatures are mild all year round, it should be noted that winds are omnipresent on the archipelago, and can reach speeds of over 40 km/h.
Mild temperatures in the Magdalen Islands. Source: Navigateur Millerand, 2023.
The best times
If you like warmer weather and long, sunny days, summer is the best time to plan your island vacation. Tourism is booming and the archipelago is lively and dynamic. The heat is never extreme, and a host of activities are available. You can rent bicycles or watercraft such as kayaks and paddleboards. Weather conditions and the islands' geography mean that kitesurfing and windsurfing are also popular sports.
As winter is fairly mild on the islands, it's also a good time to visit if you're looking for a quieter vacation. There's less traffic, so you can enjoy the full island experience and share in the culture of the Madelinots. The pace of life is much slower, however, and some attractions are closed, so be sure to plan your outings in advance. In the dead of winter, although it's becoming increasingly rare, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of harp seals migrating to the islands to give birth to their pups on the immense pack ice surrounding the archipelago. Many winter activities are available, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowkiting.
How do I get to the Magdalen Islands?
Plane
Flying is the fastest way to get to the Magdalen Islands, although not the cheapest. Round-trip ticket prices range from $500 to $1,000, and sometimes more, depending on the season and city of departure. A small number of airlines offer flights to the islands, including Air Canada, PAL and Pascan. Non-stop flights are available from Montreal and Quebec City, but it is also possible to fly from other cities, particularly in the Maritime provinces. The flight takes between 1 and 4 hours, and the airport is located on Havre aux Maisons island. The disadvantage of flying is that, once there, you'll need to rent a car if you want to explore the entire archipelago.
Ferry
Although the ferry is less expensive than the plane, travel time can be considerably longer, depending on your departure city. However, it offers great comfort, with plenty of relaxation areas, a bar, a café, a cafeteria, outdoor spaces, a kennel and a children's area. The ferry trip takes 5 hours and departs from Souris, Prince Edward Island. From Montreal, it's a 13-hour drive, not including the ferry. One-way ferry fares average $110 per car in high season (June 15 to September 14), and $77 in low season (September 15 to June 14). Prices may vary according to car length and height. You'll also have to pay per passenger, about $60 per adult in high season, and $38 in low season. The advantage of the ferry is that you'll be able to move freely around the islands during your stay, as you'll already have your own car. Be sure to book your passage in advance if you use this means of transport.
Aerial view of Havres-aux-Maisons, Île-de-la-Madeleine. Source: Îles-de-la-Madeleine.com, 2024.
What to do in the Magdalen Islands?
Activities
The Magdalen Islands are the ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities, both in summer and winter. We've mentioned several in the section on the best times to visit the islands, but you don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy your stay. The islands are rich in custom, history and culture, and there are plenty of activities to discover these aspects. A number of museums, interpretation centers and economuseums are open to visitors, allowing you to learn more about the history and way of life of the Madelinots. The islands are also home to six lighthouses, an important part of island culture. Four of them are easily accessible and very interesting to visit.
Jaspe Rouge at La Grave, Île Havre-Aubert. Source: AdventurousKate, 2024.
Restaurants
The Magdalen Islands are renowned for their local flavors and exceptional quality regional products. With its renowned regional cuisine, the archipelago stands out for its tasty seafood. Lobster, often freshly caught on site, is a staple of Magdalen cuisine. Scallops, herring, mussels, crab and mackerel are also common items on restaurant menus. Some businesses also specialize in processing local products, including raw-milk cheese, chocolate, flavored oils and craft beers. The gastronomy of the Magdalen Islands is characterized by a vast choice of tables and types of cuisine. Choose from traditional family fare to fine regional cuisine, and there's something for everyone.
Storm shelter on the Magdalen Islands. Source: AdventurousKate, 2024.
How much should you budget for travel to the Magdalen Islands?
The price of your vacation in the Magdalen Islands can vary enormously, depending on the number of people you're traveling with, your mode of transportation, the type of accommodation you choose, and more. Here are a few budget examples for a 10-day stay in high season, including accommodation in a cottage, several restaurant outings, an amount for groceries, several activities and an amount for souvenirs.
Two adults :
- You can budget between $8,000 and $12,000 if you travel by plane and rent a car. If you travel by car and ferry, you can budget between $6,000 and $8,000.
Two adults and two children:
- You can budget between $10,000 and $15,000 if you travel by plane and rent a car. If you travel by car and ferry, you can plan on between $8,000 and $12,000.
Of course, these prices will be lower in the off-season, although the supply will also be reduced. You can also cut costs further by cooking rather than eating out, staying at a campsite rather than a hotel, limiting paid activities, etc.
How much should you budget for travel to the Magdalen Islands?
Hotels, inns and campsites
For a more luxurious stay, but where cooking may not be an option, there are numerous hotels on the islands that welcome visitors all year round. Youth hostels are also available. Although less luxurious than hotels, they are less expensive, and you'll be able to cook to save a little money. It's also possible to book camping sites, where you bring your own equipment, or ready-to-camp sites, which already contain the necessary gear.
Aerial view of Navigateur Millerand and Anse à la Cabane. Source: Navigateur Millerand, 2024.
Beach cottages and vacation homes
If you appreciate a rustic atmosphere, but like to enjoy your stay in a fairly spacious and well-equipped place, a large number of cottages and tourist residences are available to tourists to the islands. The cottages on the beach at Navigateur Millerand are the ideal place to enjoy your vacation with family, lovers or friends. Fully equipped and able to accommodate between 2 and 6 people, the cottages offer breathtaking sea views and direct access to a semi-private beach. What could be better than waking up to the sound of the waves? Book your stay now to discover the best the islands have to offer.
