Iles de la Madeleine

Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine is one of two municipalities forming the urban agglomeration of Îles-de-la-Madeleine in Quebec, Canada.

The islands have many kilometres of white sand beaches, the water temperature in the bays and lagoons can reach 18°C to 21°C so swimming can be enjoyed until the end of September.

Beginning in mid-February, new-born and young harp seal pups can be seen on the pack ice in the Gulf of St Lawrence surrounding the islands.

Sea kayaking, scuba diving, windsurfing, kite surfing, horse riding, bird watching, fishing and golf are among the many activities on offer.

The East Point National Wildlife Reserve in Grosse-Île, Havre aux Basques bay and the Mountain in Île du Havre Aubert and Dune–du-Sud in Île du Havre-aux-Maisons are some of the best places where you find beautiful plant species.

There are a large number of cycling paths available, some off-road cycling paths run along the cliffs in Cap-aux-Meules, Étang-du-Nord and Fatima. It is also possible to take the main road that links the islands, or cycle along the secondary roads.

Take a ride in a horse-drawn buggy along the scenic roads in Pointe Basse in summer or its sparkling ice on lagoons in winter. With a guide, you will discover the local heritage and history as well as the local artists and craftspeople.

Freshly caught fish and seafood are specialities of local restaurants.

Smaller cruise ships may dock at Port of Cap-aux-Meules, located on the archipelago’s central island. Larger ships anchor in the Baie de Plaisance opposite the port and tender passengers the short distance ashore.