20 photos to inspire you to visit the Magdalen Islands
Have you ever heard of the Magdalen Islands? I’m pretty sure you probably haven’t! I knew they existed and that they were a part of the Quebec province here in Canada. But that was it! You would’ve told me would you plan a trip to the islands? I would’ve probably answered you something like that: I’d rather go to Europe instead of traveling inside my own province.
2020 has been plenty of surprises so far and in a way, it was a good thing to explore a bit more of what is around us. Fortunately for us, I had planned the trip before COVID happened so I was able to book everything I had to without any problems. I am so glad I went to the Magdalen Islands! It was more beautiful than I could have imagined! It’s hard to believe that this archipelago is part of the country I live in!
So here are 20 photos, I hope, will inspire you to add this place to your bucket list!
Traveling to the Magdalen Islands, you have to either take the ferry or a plane.
Beaches aren’t that crowded! I was quite surprised to see the beaches this empty on the peak of summertime vacations here in Quebec. Tourists have been limited due to COVID but still!
You can find many activities and historical sites to visit all around the place. The islands are rich in history.
On the main islands, you will find three lighthouses, L’Anse-à-la-Cabane, Cap-Alright, and Borgot. There are also some lighthouses to visit on the other islands as well but you will need a boat to get there. They are impressive as they are standing tall at the top of some red cliffs.
Even though the water is cold, the color is beautiful and the water is quite clear.
From anywhere on the islands, sunrises and sunsets are quite the show. Even though the night I took these photos was a little covered, the colors are still amazing!
Speaking of colors, it is part of the charm of the islands as the houses are all painted bright colors, and plants just seem to be brighter!
Looking for local beer, you won’t be disappointed. À l’Abri de la tempête offers quite a variety of beers, IPA’s and even other options for people who don’t drink beer. All brewed in their own building. You can only find their products on the Magdalen Islands.
I was quite lucky to witness Pointe-aux-Loups this calm with mirror water. Apparently, this phenomenon rarely happens because the Magdalen Islands are known to be windy! Normally this bay is filled with kite surfers.
Anywhere you go, it seems the scenery just gets better and better.
The islands are very family-friendly! They offer many free activities for the kids. In Fatima, kids can play for free in inflatable games near the beach. There are many museums around the islands and even a small aquarium at the historical site of La Grave.
All around the islands, you will find rock formations. Some of them you can even jump off of!
Havre-aux-Maisons is spectacular! One of my favorite islands!
All around the Magdalen Islands, you will find cute little shops just like these ones with a lot of local art and local merchandise.
The people! They are so generous and caring! You barely know them and they will be just like your best friend. We met some great people along the way and hopefully, we will visit them again soon!
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. I would never recommend anything I don’t personally love and use!
Now that you are inspired to travel there, let me help you with the planning!
How to prepare a trip to the Magdalen Islands
Our Magdalen Islands road trip itinerary
