Official tourist guide 2026-2027 Îles de la Madeleine

2026 - 2027 OFFICIAL TOURIST GUIDE

Îles de la Madeleine

2026 – 2027 ÎLES DE LA MADELEINE

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Truly impressive, for all ages and stages. Reserve your guided tour of Îles-de-la-Madeleine generating station.

IT’S FREE!

hydroquebec.com/visit

DIRECTLY ON THE BEAUTIFUL beach OF DUNE DU SUD

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An open door to the sea

• 15 fully equipped cottages • 129 campsites • Minigolf • Community hall

Establishment numbers: Campground: 205096 | Cottages: 091361

436, chemin de la Dune-du-Sud Havre-aux-Maisons (Québec) G4T 5P4

418 969-2134 | info@chaletscampingdessillons.com Online reservation: chaletscampingdessillons.com

5 TIPS TO TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY BY RV ON THE ISLANDS

1 2 3 4 5

Publicité pleine page 5,25 × 7,875 pouces + 0,125 de marges perdues (bleed) tout autour ou 5,5 × 8,125 pouces avec marges perdues (bleed) incluses : We recommend planning your trip in advance given the remoteness of the Islands and the limited capacity of the ferry. Keep your vehicle on designated roads and areas (parking lots, rest stops, campgrounds) while respecting private property and fragile environments. Use designated areas such as the CGMR to dispose of your camping waste (gas bottles, propane, etc.). Visit the tourist information office to plan your stay and learn about parking and camping regulations.

Use the services provided by campgrounds or the municipality for your drinking water needs and wastewater disposal.

We look forward to welcoming you!

For more information: www.tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/en 1 877 624-4437

Contents

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Getting There Profile of the Region

13

14 16 18 20 24 28

A bit of history Architecture

Features of the Region

Fauna and flora

Our Must-see Attractions

The Islands

53 -

Travel by Experience Live the St. Lawrence River

54 66

Vibrant Islands and Festivities

74 98 110 112 126

Culture and Living History

Great Outdoors

Winter on the Islands

Local Flavours

Additional Activities

131 -

Accommodations and Places to Eat Services and Tourist Informations

154 -

155 157 170

Tourist Information

Services

Travelling in Québec

172 - 175 -

Index

Maps and Pictograms

Îles de la Madeleine on the Web

Îles de la Madeleine on the Web In addition to the tourism guide, we have a selection of web tools to help inspire, plan and share your trip.

Website With the “Where to sleep,” “What to do” and “Where to eat” sections (among others), enjoy a visit on our website to not only plan your stay, but plan your days after landing here. Your best reference! tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com INSTAGRAM-SQUARE Instagram Follow us on Instagram to see the Islands through the eyes of both Madelinots and visitors. Discover all about the Islands throughout the seasons. Add the destination’s official hashtags to your posts or tag us in your stories for a chance of being reposted on our account! @ilesdelamadeleine #fousdesiles #ilesdelamadeleine ✉ Newsletter Subscribe to Tourisme Îles de la Madeleine’s newsletter so you won’t miss out on what our archipelago has to offer during your stay! Be among the first people to know about our contests, promotional offers and so on! tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/newsletter

CIRCLE-INFO Digital Information Kiosk A digital information kiosk is now available outside the visitor information centre. Accessible 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, it gives you real-time access to the destination’s full tourism offer—just like our website. Arriving by ferry and wondering which restaurants are open, where to stay, or what to do once you’re here? The kiosk is there to guide you, even outside the visitor centre’s opening hours. Immersive and inspiring destination videos enhance this digital experience and give you a preview of your stay. PEN-TO-SQUARE Blog Whether you’re interested in history, food, music or sports, the blog displays authentic posts discussing all that and much more — all written by Madelinots and new Madelinots. They all chose to anchor on the archipelago, but enjoy the insularity in their own way. Follow their unique stories! tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/blog

/tourismeIDM /tourismeilesdelamadeleine /ilesdelamadeleine

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General Information – Getting There

Getting There

> Air Travel Aéroport des Îles de la Madeleine (YGR) 210, chemin de l'Aéroport, Havre-aux-Maisons Air Canada 1-888-247-2262 ― aircanada.ca Air Canada offers flights to the Îles de la Madeleine only during the summer season. PAL Airlines 210, chemin de l'Aéroport, Havre-aux-Maisons 1-800-563-2800 ― palairlines.ca Open: year-round. Our airline operates scheduled passenger flights along with cargo services throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. We also offer customized charter solutions that can take you to destinations around the world. Over the past 45 years we have established ourselves as one of the largest regional airlines in Eastern Canada. [ad next page]

Pascan 210, chemin de l'Aéroport, Havre-aux-Maisons 1-888-313-8777 ― pascan.com Open: year-round. PASCAN aviation, a Québec carrier that has been serving the regions for more than 20 years! With flights from Montréal (St-Hubert), Québec City, Bonaventure and Gaspé 365 days a year. We offer regular flights as well as charter flights for flexibility according to your needs. Our fleet: SAAB 340 aircraft, 33 seats with on-board service as well as our Jetstreams, 15 passengers. [ad p. 11] ø Buses and train It is possible to travel by train to Moncton (N.B.), and then by bus to Charlottetown (P.E.I.). From there, you would need to take a taxi or shuttle from Charlottetown to Souris. However, we recommend you contact your travel agency.

© M.Dupuis

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Discover the Magdalen Islands

Flights from Montréal, Québec City, and Gaspé BOOK NOW

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palairlines.ca | 1.800.563.2800

General Information – Getting There

Automobile To travel to the Îles de la Madeleine by road, visitors must go to Souris (Prince Edward Island) and take a ferryboat to the archipelago. The ferry crossing takes 5 hours. Confederation Bridge 1-902-437 7300 ― confederationbridge.com 2026 Toll rates Two-axle vehicle: $20.00 Motorcycle: $20.00 Toll to cross the Confederation Bridge: the toll varies according to the type of vehicle. Bridge tolls are collected when leaving Prince Edward Island. Attention: the bridge is closed to cyclists and pedes trians. A shuttle bus is provided.

å Ferry Ferry CTMA

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Terminus de Cap-aux-Meules 70 chemin du Débarcadère, Cap-aux-Meules 418-986-3278 ― 1-888-986-3278 ― ferryctma.ca Open: year-round. Access the Îles de la Madeleine through this 5-hour crossing between Prince Edward Island and the Madelinot archipelago. Get on board and appreciate the crew's courtesy, the comfort of the ship and the many services offered. You will live a true experience of relaxation and pleasure on the sea. To make a reservation, please have on hand the type of your vehicle, dates of travel and credit card for the full payment. Reservation online at ferryctma.ca.

© M.Bonato

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Getting There – General Information

2026 Rates (one way) and Crossing Schedule High season June 15 to Sept. 14

Low season Sept. 15 to June 14

Adult (13 to 59 years old)

$29.55

$19.10

60 years and over

$23.90

$15.55

Child (5 to 12 years old)

$14.90

$7.70

Child (under 5 years old)

Free

Free

Cabine (4 lits superposés avec douche et toilette)

$75.00 + tx ($86.25)

$75.00 + tx ($86.25)

Units (driver, passengers and cyclists not included) Vehicle (21 feet and less)*

$55,10 $27.55 $55.10 $10.40

$38,75 $19.40 $38.75

Motorcycle, Spyder or ATV

Motorcycle, Spyder or ATV with trailer

Bicycle, kayak & paddle board $8.60 * For rates for commercial vehicles, please refer to the carriage of commercial vehicles. All rates are in Canadian dollars. A fuel surcharge will be added to the rates. Rates are tax exempt.

Departure from Îles de la Madeleine

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

April 1 to 30

7 am 7 am

7 am

7 am 7 am 7 am

May 1 to June 30

7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am

7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am

July 1 to September 13**

September 15 to September 30 Octobre 1 to November 30

7 am 7 am

7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am 7 am

7 am 7 am

7 am 7 am

7 am 7 am

December 1 to March 31

Departure from Prince Edward Island

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

April 1 to 30

1 pm 1 pm

1 pm

1 pm 1 pm 1 pm

May 1 to June 30

1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm

July 1 to September 13**

1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm

1 pm 1 pm

1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm

September 15 to September 30 Octobre 1 to November 30

1 pm 1 pm

1 pm 1 pm

1 pm 1 pm

December 1 to March 31

** Additional crossings may be scheduled if required. Schedule is subject to change without notice. Please confirm your crossing with CTMA.

To check the status of crossings or in the event of a schedule change, visit ferryctma.ca, or call 1-800-986-3278 and press 2 (Atlantic time zone–one hour later than elsewhere in Québec). The times indicated are the departure times of the ship. Make sure to arrive at the boarding dock 75 minutes before departure.

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CHARTER SERVICE Your destination, your aircraft, your schedule! Enjoy our customized charter service for a trip tailored to you.

BOOK NOW WWW.PASCAN.COM 1 450 443 0500

P ON THE ISLANDS THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO TRAVEL BY ELECTRIC CAR

1 Visit the tourist information office to plan your stay and learn about service points on the archipelago for your vehicle. www.tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/en/

2 Check the availability of charging stations between your home and the Îles de la Madeleine. lecircuitelectrique.com/en and chargehub.com

3 Ask about accommodations that have electric charging stations. www.tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/en/where-to-sleep/

For more information: www.tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/en 1 877 624-4437

Profile of the Region 1

14 -> Îles de la Madeleine Overview 18 -> Features of the Region 24 -> Must-see Attractions 28 -> The islands 28 Havre Aubert Island 32 Entry Island 34 Cap aux Meules Island 42 Havre aux Maisons Island 46 Pointe aux Loups Island 48 Grosse Île and Grande Entrée Islands

© M.Dupuis

Îles de la Madeleine Overview – Profile of the Region

A bit of history

Exploring Les Îles Micmac poetically named the archipelago “Menagoesenog”, a word that means “islands brushed by the waves”. Well before the arrival of the first Europeans, Indians were coming to the Islands to fish and to hunt for seals and walruses. In June 1534, Jacques Cartier entered in his diary the first written report about the Islands, “Les Araynes” (from Latin “arena”, meaning “sand”). He named the first islands he came upon “Isles de Margaulx“ (today Rocher aux Oiseaux) and Île Brion. In 1629, Samuel de Champlain wrote on a map, “La Magdeleine”, near the area of Île du Havre Aubert. It has also been said that the archipelago perhaps only got its name Îles de la Madeleine in 1663 from François Doublet, Honfleur native and Les Îles concession holder, who wanted to honour his wife Madeleine Fontaine in doing so. Under the French regime, Les Îles passed through several hands without any sustainable development or actual colonization. The land of the Acadians… In 1755, the destiny of the Acadian people took a tragic turn. It was the beginning of the “Grand Dérangement” (the Exile) and the Acadian population was deported

all across the continent. Between 1761 and 1765, some who managed to escape the deportation came to the Îles de la Madeleine, where all commerce was controlled by Richard Gridley, including the walrus hunt and the Islands’ fisheries. In 1792, following the French Revolution, other Acadian families originally from Miquelon joined them under the leadership of Reverend Jean-Batiste Allain, to whom we owe the earliest preserved register. The colonization of Îles de la Madeleine truly began with them. Under British control in 1763, the Islands were annexed to Newfoundland, until 1774 when the Quebec Act annexed them to Quebec. Isaac Coffin was granted the Iles de la Madeleine in 1798, and he forced the Madelinots to pay rent on lands that they had cleared with their own hands and occupied for more than 25 years. This feudal domination, along with the merchants’ exploitation of the fishermen, created a climate of misery and injustice, which explains the Islanders’ continued emigration to new lands. Emigrating Madelinots founded several villages on Quebec’s North Shore: Blanc-Sablon (1854), Natashquan (1855), Havre-Saint-Pierre (1857), and Sept-Iles (1872). It was only in 1895 that a Québec law allowed Madelinots to buy back their lands from the concession holder. From then on, free from colonial

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© Coll. Musée de la Mer / BANQ

Profile of the Region – Îles de la Madeleine Overview

Meules, and Île du Havre Aubert. Two other islands are part of the archipelago as well: Île d’Entrée, inhabited and located 10 km east of Havre-Aubert, and Île Brion, 16 km north of Grosse-Île (see area map p. 176). There are other smaller islands and islets that are part of the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago: Rocher aux Oiseaux (Bird Rock), Île aux Goélands, Île Paquet and Le Corps-Mort. Climate The huge water masses around the archipelago temper the weather and create milder conditions in each season. Winter is mild, with the least amount of annual frost, spring is cool. There are no heat waves in summer, and fall is warm; in fact, these sunny warm temperatures often last to the end of September. Constant winds greatly influence the climate of the Islands. Stronger in winter than in summer, wind speeds vary between 17 and 40 km/hr (9 to 22 knots). In summer, the prevailing winds are from the southwest, and in winter, they are from the northwest. The archipelago has everything: climate, wind, various bodies of water and more than 300 km of beautiful beaches — all it takes to be a wind, surf and water-sport lover’s paradise.

hassles, they were able to focus on overcoming obstacles and achieving self-sufficiency. … and the sea Madelinots are only too familiar with the trials and tribulations of maritime life. Many tragic shipwrecks have been recorded (more than 400), and these were more often than not foreign ships swept ashore in storms while passing the Islands. Survivors often decided to make the Islands their home. Legends and extraordinary stories colour the Islanders’ oral tradition, kept alive from the time when they lived in almost total isolation. Although modern methods of communication have eased this isolation, the Madelinots still maintain their unique way of life and retain their distinctive accent. In 2023, population was estimated at 13,000 inhabitants, about 5% of which were Anglophones and primarily of Scottish origin. Geography The archipelago is located in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, or more precisely: 215 km from the Gaspé Peninsula, 105 km from Prince Edward Island and 95 km from Cape Breton Island. The Islands take the shape of a half moon fishhook stretching across a distance of 88 km in a south-west/north-easterly direction. Islanders live in the Atlantic Time Zone, one hour ahead of the rest of the Province of Québec. When it is noon in Montréal, it is 1 pm on the Islands. The archipelago is composed of about a dozen islands, six of which are linked by long, thin, sand dunes. The names of the islands (from north to south) are: Île de la Grande Entrée and Grosse Île, Île de la Pointe aux Loups, Île du Havre aux Maisons, Île du Cap aux

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© Coll. Musée de la Mer / BANQ

Îles de la Madeleine Overview – Profile of the Region

Architecture

The keys to the originality of Madelinot culture lie in its Acadian and Québec influences and its history of profound isolation. Once, shipwrecks and maritime commerce were its principal contacts with the outside world. This culture is still vibrant today, in the language, the arts, the economy, and in the maintenance and development of the land. This originality gives the Islands a little something extra…

Lighthouses The lighthouses are a testimony to the history of navigation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and to the lifestyle that came with it. Lighthouses are iconic features of Les Iles and they represent a considerable heritage value. For a long time, they have literally been a lifeline for the many ships that sailed the coasts of the islands as well as for the Islanders living from marine activity. The territory of the Magdalen Islands has six lighthouses. Four of them are easily accessible: Entry Island p. 33, Anse a la Cabane (Bassin, Havre Aubert Island, p. 30), Borgot (L’Etang-du-Nord, Cap aux Meules Island, p. 40) and Cape Alright (Havre aux Maisons Island, p. 44). The two others are those of Rocher aux Oiseaux and Brion Island (p. 104). Their design and the variety of materials used reflect the changing lights in this island country. Despite the presence of these lighthouses, the archipelago became the second largest ship graveyard in North America. In cultural and heritage centers, the public is presented with collections of objects from shipwrecks, photographs or archives that share the story of Les Îles, its navigation and Madelinots of all origins. See the Public Places and Historical Sites section and Museums, p. 85.

Traditional Architecture The houses on Les Îles have become an important attraction with their colours and originality, but above all else for the way their location respects the landforms and natural habitats. They are naturally part of the landscape. Domestic architecture: houses and barns are quite simple and painted in a variety of bright colours. The Acadian and French origins of many of the Madelinots as well as some influence from New England can be seen in the architecture of their homes. Several details are typical of the traditional home: the small enclosed porch, corbel, veranda, painted or stained cedar shingles. There are many fine examples of traditional houses throughout Les Îles. The whole of the Patrimonial site of La Grave constitutes without a doubt a privileged heritage place where the traditional architecture is showcased. This is a perfect illustration of how an inhabited area can be transformed. Its designation as a historical site is an initiative that has encouraged other similar interventions such as the reconstitution of Anse de L’Étang-du-Nord.

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© Tourisme Îles de la Madeleine, G.St-Amand

Features of the Region – Profile of the Region

Features of the Region

Going out to explore on foot, by bicycle, car or kayak, is a way to discover the varied flora, fauna and the charming countryside. A palette of wonderful colours brings the landscape to life, illuminating the variety of its vegetation and landforms.

The Islands The islands and islets of the archipelago are in fact the visible part of a shoal (a type of underwater plateau) on which the islands rest. The islands, connected by sand dunes, make up the archi pelago. Each island is a rocky mass with bare, round hills, which the inhabitants call “buttes”. The hills are interspersed with valleys that form plateaus gently sloping toward the sea. The inhabitants, the Madelinots, have established their homes and farms near these areas.

The Cliffs There are two types of rock in the cliffs on the Magdalens: gray sandstone and red sandstone. The gray sandstone is more resistant to erosion and is found in some of the highest landforms. The red sandstone cliffs take spectacular shapes that offer a constant vision of wonder to the eye. This is sedimentary rock, 99% quartz covered with a thin layer of iron oxide, and it is this latter which gives the stone its reddish colour. The rock is highly friable, and suffers greatly from erosion. Created by the incessant battle between the sea and the land, visual wonders await the eye of the visitor all along the cliffs. The Dunes Sandpits represent over 60% of the Islands’ coastline. The sandstone cliffs eroded, washed and transported by sea, lose their red colour with time to turn into white sand. This is how dunes and furrows (Sillons) are formed, and you can see a perfect example of these formations at Dune du Sud. These dunes truly reveal the uniqueness of the madelinot landscape. They are inhabited by a flora that is quite different from the continent’s and can be found nowhere else in Québec on such a large scale.

BEWARE: Never walk close to the edge of the cliffs, because the eroded areas are not always

visible and they can be extremely dangerous. Stay at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from the edge, especially when you see this sign.

Use the wooden walkways to access our beaches to protect our fragile environment.

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© M.Bonato

Profile of the Region – Features of the Region

The Lagoons When two parallel dunes meet, they trap water between them and create a lagoon connected to the sea by narrow channels. These natural basins have some very important ecological functions. The lagoons are an excellent habitat for the growth and reproduction of lobster, herring, smelt, and other marine species. The warm, calm waters of the lagoons are also safe areas to enjoy windsurfing. In addition, the banks of the lagoons shelter large populations of marine and coastal fowl.

The Beaches Most of the sand on the beaches starts off as sandstone eroded from red cliffs. Once in the salt water, material from the cliffs loses its thin film of iron oxide and is carried around the islands by longshore currents before being deposited in spits whose general orientation is determined by the direction of the prevailing winds and currents. Once dry, the sand appears white. It accumulates on beaches and helps create the dunes. See the list of beaches on p. 61.

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© M.Bonato

Features of the Region – Profile of the Region

Fauna and flora

The Flora Since dunes cover 30% of the total land area in the Îles de la Madleine, the most characteristic flora in the archipelago appears in the dune environment. The dunes are covered with beach grass, the most important plant in the archipelago’s ecology, since it is essential to the stabilization of the dunes. Its rhizomes fix the sand in the dunes, preventing it from invading and filling up habitats located behind the dunes such as lagoons and ponds. Other plants also grow in the dunes: seabeach sandwort, beach pea, bayberry, black crowberry, starflower, not to mention the magnificent poverty grass, one of the rarest plants in Québec, which is found in the Îles de la Madeleine. In salt meadows and marshes, there are many species of grasses such as carex, bulrushes and spartina. Other species present in this environment: Baltic rush, black sandwort, glasswort, and marsh rosemary. Peat bogs are a perfect environment for sphagnum moss and two carnivorous plants: the pitcher plant and the dew plant, as well as the grass-pink orchid and the hare’s tail. Dense colonies of gorgeous blue flag grow in freshwater marshes, as do the buckbean, the giant bur reed, the marsh cinquefoil and the sheep laurel. The forested area is not large, but it does offer many interesting plants. Wild berries may be found in some places but be careful not to go on private land without permission:

• Wild strawberries: last three weeks in July, in fields and at the edge of forests. • Raspberries: end of July and beginning of August, in clearings and in wooded areas. • Blueberries: August, on the dunes and in the woods. • Cranberries: end of September, on the dunes, at the edges of ponds and in damp fields. In summer, fields, meadows, even the roadsides are ablaze with wildflowers of all kinds. Some of the plants you can expect to see: ox-eye daisy, buttercup, red clover, white clover, alsike clover, rabbit-foot clover (Trifolium arvense), bird vetch, yellow melilot, Canada goldenrod, pearly everlasting, fireweed, foxtail barley. Beautiful natural sites: • Pointe de l’Est National Wildlife Area (Grosse Île Island): marshes, ponds and the beach (see p. 48-49 and 104). • Havre aux Basques Bay (Havre Aubert Island): fields and salt marshes. Take the Chemin de la Dune-de l’Ouest or Chemin de la Pointe-des-Canots (see p. 29-30). • La Montagne (Havre Aubert Island): coniferous forest and forest flora (see p. 30). • Dune du Sud (Havre aux Maisons Island): peat bogs in the area of Les Sillons (furrows) and along the dune to Grande-Entrée (see p. 42-44).

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Profile of the Region – Features of the Region

Fauna Since the archipelago is not large, it is home to many species of birds and mammals. Due to their location in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Îles de la Madeleine are a favourite site for birds. The most important of the marine mammals, both because of its number and its importance, is the seal. Four different species of seals can be found around the Îles de la Madeleine (Gray, Harbour, Harp and Hooded). There was a time when walrus were also common, but they disappeared in 1799. Whales can sometimes be observed offshore, although they are rather rare.

Birds Approximately 300 species of birds live on or pass through the Islands. These birds have different statuses: nesting, migratory, residents, visitors and wintering species. Many of the nesting birds live in colonies: the northern gannet, the blacklegged kittiwake, the great blue heron, the double-crested shag, the thick-billed murre, the atlantic puffin, the razorbill, etc. The Piping Plover, an endangered species, nests on beaches. It is found nowhere else in the Province of Québec except here in the Islands. You should avoid their nesting grounds (identified by signs) between May 1 and August 15. Two other bird species coming to the Islands — the roseate tern and the horned grebe — are also on the list of species at risk. Many of the migratory birds are coastal species: Sandpipers, Plovers, Yellowlegs, Turnstones, the Whimbrel and the Hudsonian Godwit. There are only about 25 resident species on the Islands, from the common crow to the rare snowy owl. Note that the number of individual species reaches its maximum at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn when migratory birds stop on the Islands. For information on the best watching sites, visit the Bird Watching section, p. 101-102 or tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/birdwatching.

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The Gray Seal and the Harbor Seal Gray Seals and Harbor Seals can be observed in their natural habitat at the east end of Brion Island, at the end of the Grande Échouerie Beach in Grosse-Île, at Corps-Mort Rock and on the Dune du Sud Beach, just opposite the Grande-Entrée fishing port. Seal watching tours are offered in the Havre aux Maisons lagoon. This is a wonderful, exciting experience, but can only be experienced in good weather (see Live the St. Lawrence River, Sea Excursions (Boat/zodiac) section, p. 56, Marine Mammal Watching, p. 59). The Harp Seal Every year, when conditions are favorable at the beginning of March, hundreds of thousands of Harp Seals come to the ice floes around the Islands when it is time for the birth of their youngs, which are called “whitecoats”. The whitecoat’s fur is long and white. The baby is weaned approximately two weeks after birth and his mother leaves him on the ice to go off and mate. See also the Seal Centre (p. 89).

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© É.Deschamps/M.Bonato

Features of the Region – Profile of the Region

Fishing Industry Fishing is the principal activity on the Îles de la Madeleine. It supports the economy and shapes the Islanders’ way of life. For the visitor, fishing is a subject of curiosity, a reason to explore. Take a walk around the many wharves, where you can often enjoy a pleasant chat with the fishermen. For seafood lovers, fish markets, restaurants and fish plant outlets offer a variety of fish and seafood (see the Local Flavours section, p. 112-125 and Places to Eat Every year in May, fishermen set their lobster traps off the coast. The lobster season, which usually runs for nine weeks, is strictly regulated. In the last decades, effective conservation measures were put in place in collaboration with the lobster fishermen. A total of 325 fishing licences are issued for the Islands. Each boat sets the same number of traps. Spawning females and lobsters inferior to regulation size must be set free. The total lobster catch reaches near 7 million kilograms yearly. Lobster fishermen leave port early in the morning to reach the fishing grounds where they haul their traps by 5 am. The fishermen return to their homeports in the afternoon to prepare for the next fishing day. section, p. 147-153). Shellfish Lobster

Fishing interpretation activities are available (see p. 54-56). You can also participate in the lively activities on the opening day of the lobster fishing season in May (see the Events calendar, p. 66-68). Snow Crab This deep-sea shellfish has been fished commercially in the Islands for many years. Fishermen travel far from the Islands’ shores to set large traps. The snow crab lives in very deep water, 45 to 275 metres. It is fished in April or May as soon as the ice is gone from the Gulf. The season lasts only until the fishermen have attained their quotas. Molluscs Scallop Licensed fishermen may drag for scallops for a period of up to 14 days, spread out from April to July. The scallops are usually shucked on board. The “scallop” that most people really enjoy eating is the adductor muscle or meat. In addition to fishing, scallops are also produced through local farming (scallop culture) which allows year-round marketing. Shellfish Digging and Harvesting Even though shellfish digging is authorized almost anywhere on the shores of the Islands, the harvesting of shellfish less than 125 metres from a wharf is banned at all times and some zones may be closed because of contamination. A new regulation, in effect since 2004, permits harvesting of 300 clams measuring a minimum of 51 mm (2 inches) per day, per person.

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© M.Dupuis

Profile of the Region – Features of the Region

Groundfish Groundfish, considered the mainstay of the Islands’ fishing industry until the beginning of the 90s, were destroyed by overfishing. A moratorium has been imposed on cod fishing so that the stocks can regenerate to the point where the commercial fishery can be reinstated. Other groundfish species like Atlantic halibut, is all commercially fished around the Islands. Recreational fishing Recreational fishing is regulated. For information about the opening dates and conditions, you must contact the Fisheries and Oceans local office at 418-986-2095. Various interpretive activities are offered as a fishing trip. If, in the worst case, it does not bite, the ride itself will allow you to discover the Islands from the sea. You will find certified companies that offer this type of excursion in the Live the St. Lawrence River, Sea Excursions section, p. 54, 56.

Blue Mussel Blue mussels have been farmed on the Îles de la Madeleine since 1984. The farmed mussel has many obvious advantages in quality compared to the wild mussel. Suspended while it grows, the mussel contains no sand or grit, it grows faster and provides two to three times more meat than the wild mussel. Fish Herring This pelagic species was once used almost exclusively as a mash or bait in lobster traps. For a very long time it was the mainstay of the Madelinot fishery, and was exported, salted or smoked, in huge quantities. In the 70s, a drastic decrease in the stocks led to the destruction of most of the smokehouses in the archipelago. An example of these exceptional buildings of another age still exists near the port of Pointe-Basse in Havre-aux-Maisons. This smokehouse has been renovated to revive this important activity. You will find there the Smoking ÉCONOMUSÉE® (p. 88). Mackerel Mackerel is a pelagic species found in large schools off the Islands at the end of the summer. You can fish mackerel by hand line from all the Islands’ ports.

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Must-see Attractions – Profile of the Region

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The Sentiers Entre Vents et Marées

The walking trail goes around the Islands through natural and groomed trails, as well as back roads and long stretches of beaches (where possible). As for the level of difficulty, it ranges from inter mediate to difficult. The trails suggest some stops in the various villages of the archipelago. With its outstanding landscapes, this long trek offers a combi nation of physical, cultural and spiritual aspects. Find Out More p. 106

The Heritage site of La Grave

This authentic place has been able to preserve its architectural flavour. There, you will find a great variety of artists and artisans, restaurants and boutiques. You will also have the opportunity to discover the history of the Islands while doing the self-guided tour of La Grave. Find Out More p. 85

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Profile of the Region – Must-see Attractions

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Go on an Adventure Discovering the Islands by the sea is one of the best ways to appreciate this environment! Why not explore the shores, observe the caves and cliffs or do bird watching? Take advantage of your stay to learn more about the work of a fisherman, which arouses curiosity and is a great reason to do an excursion. Fun Facts: Discover who’s offering sea fishing excursions or boat/zodiac excursions in the Live the St. Lawrence River pages in this guide. Find Out More p. 54, 56 The Food Trail The products of the archipelago benefit from a great reputation, and it doesn't come as a surprise. The sun's warming rays and the salty breeze that characterize these islands located in the heart of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are in favour of the culti vation and breeding of exceptional products. The Madelinots are proud of their local products and enjoy sharing all the archipelago's treasures with the visitors. Since you can feel their passion at every moment spent with them, why not pay them a visit directly on site? Find Out More p. 122

Entry Island: 7 km 2 of Charm

Its bare landscape and green hills will seduce you. It is the only inhabited island that is not attached to the remaining of the archipelago. There, the Madelinots are quite isolated and live to the rhythm of the sea. During your stay, climb up the Big Hill to admire the breathtaking panorama. Discovering Entry Island is like discovering the Islands for the second time! Find Out More p. 32

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© M.Dupuis, G.Thériault, A.Chevrier

Must-see Attractions – Profile of the Region

The Beaches With more than 300 km of white sand beaches, a day to bask under the sun is a must! Channel your inner child while building a sand castle and collecting seashells, or enjoy your beach time to go on an invigorating walk. With the endless sea, going for a swim is a must. Warning: you may lose track of time. Here, we don’t know the time, we have the time. Take it! Find Out More p. 60-61

Tales of Island Living Amazingly full and vibrant, the heritage of the Îles de la Madeleine maintains a perfect balance between traditional and modern. Stories, legends, music, sea trades and lifestyles are transmitted from one generation to the next. The Islanders are justly proud of their Acadian heritage and their traditions, and they are always glad to introduce them to visitors. Fun Facts: Consult the Tales and performing arts and the Events sections in this guide to discover the local artist! Find Out More p. 66, 81

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© L.Sanche Lefebvre, Île Imaginaire

Profile of the Region – Must-see Attractions

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Eat Locally Whether you step into a snack bar, a bistro or a “fancy” restaurant, you are guaranteed to taste the flavours of the Islands! Do not hesitate to try out the traditional local fritters (“beignets” or “banax”), pot pies (“pot-en-pot”), seal products and seafood options, including lobster, crab, scallop, oysters, smoked herring and more! Fun Facts: Select our specialties from the Specifica tions drop-down menu on the Where to eat page on our website to discover which restaurants have these delicious products on their menu! Find Out More p. 112-125, 147-153

Lobster In the spring, the Islands are abuzz with preparations for the fishing season. Although some fishermen are already out on the water, mostly on the hunt for snow crabs and scallops, lobster fishing is the one fishery that dominates the territory. In early May, you can take part in events surronding “la mise à l’eau” – where both families and visitors gather on the wharves to witness the launch of the season. Take advantage of those nine weeks of abundance to enjoy freshly caught lobster. They say it is the best! Find Out More p. 118-119

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© M.Nadeau, M.Dupuis

Havre Aubert Island – Profile of the Region

Island

Havre Aubert Located at the southern end of the archipelago, the two main communities on Havre Aubert Island are Havre-Aubert and Bassin. They are subdivided into townships: Portage-du-Cap, La Baie, La Montagne, L’Anse-à-la-Cabane and L’Étang-des-Caps. The first Acadians to arrive on the Islands settled in Havre Aubert Island. This island has a lot to offer: beautiful natural surroundings, good restaurants, cultural activities, shops and cafés where you can sit back and relax. Havre-Aubert is a member of the Association des plus beaux villages du Québec (most beautiful villages of Québec).

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© M.Dupuis

Profile of the Region – Havre Aubert Island

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25 km from the Information Tourist Centre in Cap-aux-Meules, via the 199 South.

Havre-Aubert is a natural fishing and yachting harbour. Here you will find the round sloping hills called Les Demoiselles (the Misses), a nature reserve acquired and protected by the Société de conservation des Îles-de-la- Madeleine, at whose feet there is a scenic road, Chemin d’en Haut, bordered by traditional houses. The most interesting attraction in Havre-Aubert is without a doubt the Heritage site of La Grave (from the French “grève”: pebbly and sandy terrain). This pebbly beach was a favourite spot for fishing and commerce and still retains its maritime flavour. Classified Heritage site of La Grave by the Minister of Cultural Affairs of Québec in 1983, La Grave has preserved its original purpose as a meeting place. Adventures tours ���������������������������������������������������p. 99 Art Galleries and Exhibition Halls �����������������p. 83 Artisans and Creative Art Trades ������������������p. 74 Cycling ����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 108 Car rental ������������������������������������������������������������������p. 161 Coffee roasters and Cafés ��������������������������������p. 115 eFoiling �����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 63 Events ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 67 Financial Institutions �����������������������������������������p. 159 For Kids ���������������������������������������������������������������������p. 129 Kayaking ��������������������������������������������������������������������p. 57 Kitesurfing ����������������������������������������������������������������p. 58 Marinas �����������������������������������������������������������������������p. 59 Museums, Interpretation Centres and ECONOMUSÉES ® ������������������������������������������p. 87 Public Places and Historical Sites �����������������p. 85 Restaurants ������������������������������������������������������������p. 147 Sailing ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 62 Shows and Theatre ������������������������������������������������p. 71 Souvenir Shops �������������������������������������������������������p. 79 Wing Surfing �����������������������������������������������������������p. 63

around the west side of the Island (Chemin du Bassin). This scenic route winds its way among the houses from Portage-du-Cap to L’Étang-des-Caps, ending on the beautiful De l’Ouest Beach. There you can sit and enjoy a magnificent sunset. The solitary rock you can see on the horizon is known as Le Corps-Mort (dead body). Along your route, be sure to take a good look at all the beautiful traditional architecture, the typical houses and the ecclesiastical architecture of the Bassin church with its presbytery, outstanding for the complexity and refinement of its mansard-style roofing. Near L’Anse-à-la-Cabane (shack cove) lighthouse, you can take in a splendid view of the cove, the fishing port and the Island’s rolling landscape. Havre Aubert Island has the most extensive forest of the archipelago. It is ideal for hiking and observing the forest flora. Art Galleries and Exhibition Halls �����������������p. 83 Farm Tours ��������������������������������������������������������������p. 120 Handcrafted Beverages and Microbrewery �������������������������������������������������������p. 112 Museums, Interpretation Centres and ECONOMUSÉES ® ������������������������������������������p. 87 Relaxation and Wellness ���������������������������������p. 126 Souvenir Shops �������������������������������������������������������p. 79 Shopping �������������������������������������������������������������������p. 69 Tales and Performing Arts ���������������������������������p. 81 Vineyard �������������������������������������������������������������������p. 120

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Havre Aubert Island – Profile of the Region

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Profile of the Region – Havre Aubert Island

Water Forest Meadow

10 La Grave - Heritage Site Great outdoors

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Vélos Évasion [ad p. 108] Culture and Living History Atelier Côtier [ad p. 91] Chez Néciphore [ad p. 93] La Fille de la Mer, Savonnerie Artisanale [ad p. 75] Le Portique [ad p. 95] Musée de la Mer [ad p. 95] Local Flavours Ramea Café [ad p. 123] La Vieille Douane [ad p. 97]

Marsh Beach Cliff Scenic road

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9 Auberge Chez Denis à François [ad p. 144] 11 Centre Nautique de l'Istorlet [ad p. 143]

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Entry Island – Profile of the Region

Entry Island

Entry Island (Île d’Entrée) will charm you with its unspoiled nature, the shimmering colours of its landscape and its rounded hills. The summit of Big Hill, the highest point of the archipelago at 174 m, offers a truly breathtaking view. Of Scottish and Irish descent, the Island's isolated inhabitants live to the rhythm of the sea. The main economic activity of the Island is fishing. A journey to Entry Island is like discovering the archipelago for a second time. Entry Island Entry Island is the only inhabited island not connected to the rest of the island chain. You may choose a random hike of a few hours or a day trip. Please walk along the roadside so that you do not disturb local traffic. You will be charmed by the tiny Anglican church, the lighthouse, the museum and the pastoral scenery. The Island has both a restaurant and a convenience store. Artisans and Creative Art Trades ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 76 Museums, Interpretation Centres and ECONOMUSÉES ® ��������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 88 Ready-to-eat ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������p. 152

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© M.Dupuis

Profile of the Region – Entry Island

Access to Entry Island To reach Entry Island, take the ferryboat or a boat trip and explore the Island on foot. Local businesses provide boat trips to Entry Island, where you can take a walking tour of the island. These excursions are available every day, weather permitting. 265, chemin du Quai (marina), Cap-aux-Meules 418-986-4745 ― excursionsenmer.com Open: June to September. Discover Entry Island with the option that suits you best: embark on the comfortable Béatrice-Hubert and learn about the history of the island on the way or hop on a zodiac and go around the island before disembarking (bird watching, cliffs and interpre tation). Our crews enjoy sharing their knowledge and making sure you have a pleasant and safe trip. Daily tours by boat (10:30 am) and zodiac. [ad p. 55] Excursions en Mer

Interprétation Pêche en Mer

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40, chemin du Quai, Havre-aux-Maisons 418-969-2299 ― info@interpretationpecheenmer.com Open: mid-July to September 30. Come aboard the Mecatina IV and enjoy an intimate and family-style crossing to Entry Island with a maximum of 12 people. Don't miss out on disco vering the beauties of the Islands in a real fishing boat. [ad p. 63] Cap-aux-Meules ‒ Île d’Entrée Ferry 5 70, chemin du Débarcadère, Cap-aux-Meules 418-986-3278 ― 1-888-986-3278 ― info@ctma.ca Open: year-round, except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Only accessible by boat, Entry Island is a breath of fresh air in the middle of the sea. With its abundant greenery, hills and red cliffs, the island inspires tranquility. The ferry service is provided by the Groupe CTMA, in partnership with the Société des traversiers du Québec. Leaving Cap-aux-Meules at 7:30 am and 3:00 pm, and leaving Entry Island at 9:00 am and 4:30 pm. No afternoon departures on Sundays. See website for fares.

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ENTRY ISLAND Culture and Living History 1 Entry Island museum [ad p. 92] Hiking trail

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