Îles-de-la-Madeleine Travel guide
Îles-de-la-Madeleine Travel guide
From One End to the Other
The Îles de la Madeleineis shaped by a dozen islands that form a 65-kilometre long crescent-shaped archipelago of 202 square kilometres. A totally new scenery is awaiting you here. The different shades of blue and green of the water, or rather of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, surround the Islands with its waves and tides. The many dunes are an integral part of the landscape, just like the golden sand that offers 300 kilometres of beaches. On the other hand, visitors can admire the green of the hills and the red of the cliffs.
The Islands enjoy a soft maritime climate, which gives Islanders mild winters, fresh springs, summers without heatwaves and warm autumns. This Quebec region has the least number of frosty days. However, the winds are always blowing on the Islands, from 17 to 40 km/h. These winds make the Islands an ideal place for all sailing, sliding and wind sports like sailing, kitesurfing and kite flying. In addition, the surrounding Gulf of St. Lawrence allows visitors to do all kinds of water activities like swimming, diving and fishing.
Speaking of fishing, this very physical activity is one of the main sources of revenue for Islanders, along with tourism. The numerous quays and ports allow fishermen to leave early in the day to fish for lobsters, snow crabs, mackerels and herrings. In season, visitors can join the inhabitants and watch the fishermen leave or arrive. The fresh lobster samplings are legendary! Between two unloadings of fish, visitors can explore the Îles de la Madeleine, it's a dozen islands that form a 65-kilometre crescent-shaped archipelago of 202 square kilometres">Îles de la Madeleine by foot or by bike, but also by car along route 199, which links almost all the islands.
This drive, as well as all the breaks you will take along the road, will surely allow you to observe the birds on île Brion as well as the seals and whitecoats of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Make sure you always have your camera at hand! You never know what could be waiting for you behind the dunes. This ride will also allow you to learn more about the history of the Islands and that of Acadians, who have colonized the archipelago. One thing is for sure: wherever you go, whatever you do, the Islanders will always give you their warmest welcome.
