Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, about 200 km east of the town of Gaspé and about 100 km from the town of Souris, in Prince Edward Island, Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is a Canadian municipality with just over 12,000 inhabitants, known as the Madelinots. Although geographically close to the Maritimes, this isolated archipelago is part of the province of Quebec. Quite different from other areas of Quebec, Les Îles stand out for their picturesque landscapes and incomparable island atmosphere. Here's a guide to the must-do activities and attractions to discover during your stay in this unique destination.
La Grave historical site
A former fishing port consisting of 33 buildings once used for fishing activities, La Grave was classified as a heritage site in 1983 by the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications du Québec. Located on l'Île-du-Havre-Aubert, the Archipelago's largest island, La Grave's site now features craft stores, restaurants, museums and even a concert hall. Numerous events are held here, and the entire site is easy to visit on foot.
Source: Québec Côté Mer, Article "La Grave : un site historique à découvrir aux Îles de la Madeleine" by Anne-Josée Pineau, Photo by Mathieu Dupuis, 2019, Site historique de la Grave
Excursion to l'île d'Entrée
The seven inhabited islands of the madelinot archipelago are all connected by the road, except for one: l'île d'Entrée. A small handful of English-speaking inhabitants live here, and the island also features Big Hill, the highest hill in the Islands (174 m), from which you can admire an exceptional view of the archipelago. A path around the island allows you to visit it on foot, amidst the cows, which roam freely. As you'll need to take a boat to get to l'île d'Entrée, don't forget to book your excursion in advance.
À l'abri de la Tempête Microbrewery
Founded in 2002 and housed in a former crab processing plant, this microbrewery is now a classic in Les Îles. The two founders, Anne-Marie and Élise, and their team strive to create gustatory links with the various players and artisans on the islands, and use local resources to showcase the archipelago's distinctive territory through the microbrewery's beers and menu. It's also possible to place takeaway orders and buy glasses and clothing bearing the company's logo.
Source: Google Maps Images, Photo taken by owner, 2018, À l'abri de la Tempête - Microbrasserie
The lighthouses
In Les Îles, lighthouses are of prime interest because of their emblematic value. There are 6 lighthouses in total, 4 of which are open to the public. Over the years, between 500 and 1000 shipwrecks have been recorded in the area around Les Îles. Lighthouses bear witness to the history of navigation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the way of life associated with it. Their symbolic value as guides and bearers of light is still present today in the collective imagination of the Madelinots. The Île Brion and Rocher aux Oiseaux lighthouses are not open to the public, but it is possible to visit the l'Anse-à-la-Cabane, Borgot, Île d'Entrée and Cap-Alright lighthouses.
Le Navigateur Millerand
Located in the municipality of Bassin, on l'Île-du-Havre-Aubert, this beach cottage accommodation is the ideal destination for your stay in Les Îles. These authentic, comfortable cottages are just steps from the beach and close to a variety of activities and restaurants. You'll enjoy a peaceful stay at the heart of a protected nature.
Kitesurfing and windsurfing
Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine are a paradise for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The variety of sites and the velocity of the winds will satisfy the expectations of all water sports enthusiasts. Warm, shallow lagoons are perfect for a safe initiation, while sea conditions with more waves are a great challenge for the more adventurous. The Plein Vent kitesurfing school offers private or duo initiation and training, while the Wind school offers the same type of courses for windsurfing. To avoid accidents, these sports must only be practised in one of the areas accessible to the public, which you can find on this map.
Source: Pexel, Photo by Serg Alesenko
Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine are an incomparable Quebec destination, brimming with natural beauty and filled with culture and heritage. Whatever the season, you're sure to fall under the spell of the welcoming people, local food and unique landscapes!
