7 Reasons to Visit the Magdalen Islands Right Now
Many people travel to Canada to explore the famous rocky mountains on the west coast or the maritime provinces out on the east coast. However, most have yet to discover a hidden gem lying in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence surrounded by Canada’s maritime provinces. This beautiful archipelago is known as the Magdalen Islands. The islands will take your breath away with their grand red cliffs that contrast sharply with luscious green hill tops and the blue water of the gulf. Here are 7 reasons to visit the Magdalen Islands right now.
1. Perfect white sand beaches
The islands are home to many kilometres of white sandy beaches; the kind of sand that glides silkily through your fingertips. Just to name a few, you can easily get lost in the picturesque sand dunes in Dune du Nord, Dune du Sud, and Pointe de L’Est. The exceptional Dune Sandy Hook is not to be missed as it takes you out to the furthest tip of the main island which offers
breathtaking views of the Entry Island’s grand cliffs diving into the water. Here you can enjoy the white sand as it squeaks beneath your toes and meet friendly locals in the refreshing waters of the Saint Lawrence.
Dune du Sud
2. Not crowded with tourists
As the islands are quite small there is little accommodation for tourists. You will not be overwhelmed with hoards of people all trying to take photos of the same thing. The Magdalen Islands are a place to disconnect from the world and embrace the quiet solitude of nature. Empty stretches of coastline make you feel as though you have the whole place to yourself sometimes.
Dune du Nord
3. Easy to get around
The islands are very easy to navigate. You can enjoy biking around the island which is a great way to take in the sea air
and wind your way at your own pace around the grandiose cliffs as you try to spot seals in the distant waters. With a vehicle you can discover the whole island in a day.
Cap-aux-meules
4. Plenty to do on the water
If you’re interested in sea kayaking or canoeing, you can explore hidden water caves around the islands’ shores, all while getting a unique view of the birds, beaches and sand dunes from the water. The island also offers windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand up paddle boarding in the vast interior lagoons. For the adventurous, you can go on a more extensive sea cave excursion and explore inaccessible sites that can only be seen from the water. Or hop on a boat tour to some of the surrounding islands.
Water cave in Pointe de L’Est
5. Fresh seafood
The island boasts many delicious seafood dishes that are offered at an affordable price. It’s best to order the fresh catch of the day which includes lobster, oysters, scallops, shrimp, crab and more! All served with warm, friendly smiles. The Magdalen Islands are truly a paradise for seafood lovers. Be sure not to miss LA Cantine. It is worth the stop.
LA Cantine
6. Endless hiking trails
A great way to explore the island is to set off on one of the numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking scenic views along the coast. Taking in the fresh sea air is a day well spent on the island. Some noteworthy trails to mention are East Point, Boudreau Island, Butte Ronde Hill, and Butte des Demoiselles. This photogenic island is keen to keep you healthy as you enjoy the scenery.
Butte Ronde Hill
7. Spectacular sunsets
The island offers some of the most exceptional sunsets you will ever see. When you think of a perfect sunset you imagine a sky filled with bright reds, oranges, pinks and yellows as a perfectly rounded blazing sun disappears into the horizon. Well that is exactly what the island will give you. A good scenic viewpoint for the perfect sunset is in La Belle Anse. You will not be disappointed.
La Belle Anse
The Magdalen Islands are the perfect place to unwind, reconnect with nature and experience Quebec’s maritime beauty and hospitality. It’s a great spot for solo travellers, couples and families, and the best time to visit is July-September.
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- 7 Reasons to Visit the Magdalen Islands Right Now - September 5, 2017
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