Magdalen Islands Destination Guide

Renowned for the charm of their landscapes, their more than 300 km of beach, their delicious seafood products, and their welcoming and endearing community, the Magdalen Islands are the destination where lovers of nature and water sports gather. This archipelago, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, consists of a dozen islands and offers spectacular landscapes.

Magdalen Island is a great place to visit
Îles-de-la-Madeleine (Photo par / by : TQ / A. Quenneville ©)

Most Popular Cities and Attractions At Magdalen Islands


01

La Grave (Havre Aubert Island)

La Grave is a historical outdoor site. Everything can be visited on foot, and you will find everything there: restaurants, cafes, boutiques, museums, marina, performance halls, and various events. In the summer, a program of free cultural activities is offered for the whole family.

View of La Grave Havre Aubert Island harbour
Havre-Aubert harbour (Photo par / by : TQ / L. Mondoux ©)
02

Hiking at Butte Ronde

This short hike of about 1.4 km round trip on Havre aux Maisons Island is a moderate trail offering a breathtaking viewpoint of the ocean and islands. The best time to go is from June to September.

Enjoy the breathtaking sight at The Butte ronde and the Cap Alright
The Butte ronde (Photo par / by : TQ / G. Leroyer ©)
03

Microbrewery À l'abris de la tempête

Located on L'Étang-du-Nord Island, the microbrewery À l'abris de la tempête benefits from a prime location, near the beach and the sea. It is a gathering place for both Madelinots and tourists. Returning from a fat bike excursion or before lounging on the beach, taste the wide selection of locally brewed craft beers that showcase
local products.

Try craft beers at Microbrewery À l'abris de la tempête in Magdalen Islands
À l'Abri de la Tempête (Photo par / by : TQ / A. Quenneville ©)

Getting Here


Several options are available to you to get to the Magdalen Islands. Being the most remote region from Quebec's major centers, it is important to pay attention to the duration of the journey depending on the desired transport and the time you have to visit the archipelago.

Car + ferry

The ferry to the Magdalen Islands departs from the port of Souris on Prince Edward Island. To get there from Quebec, you need to drive to Souris via New Brunswick. The ferry will take you to the port of Cap-aux-Meules.

  • From Montreal: ±13 hours by car + 5 hours by ferry. Total of 18 hours

Tips and information for the road

To not miss the boat, adjust your time at the entrance of New Brunswick, which is one hour ahead (Atlantic Time).
Sign up for CTMA alerts a few days before leaving, to be informed of schedule changes.
Crossing the Confederation Bridge is subject to a toll. Toll fees vary depending on the type of vehicle used.
Make sure to book the ferry well in advance, especially if you plan to visit the archipelago in the summer.

To see detailed options for getting to the Magdalen Islands independently, this site gathers all the information.

Organized group

You can also stop at the Magdalen Islands as part of cruises.
This is an interesting option if you want to combine your visit to the islands with visiting other destinations in Eastern Canada.

Plane

  • From Montreal: ±13 hours by car + 5 hours by ferry. Total of 18 hours

Travel time: between 1 and 4 hours depending on the departure city and the number of stops. You can take a direct flight from Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City.

Air Canada

Air Canada offers flights to the Magdalen Islands from Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City, during the summer season only.

PasCan

PasCan serves the Magdalen Islands year-round from Saint-Hubert, Quebec, Gaspé and Bonaventure.

PAL Airlines

PAL Airlines offers flights to the Magdalen Islands from various destinations in Eastern Canada.



Find Your dream Accommodation

Browse through special offers and choose a top-rated accommodation on Magdalen Islands that aligns with your style of travel and fits your budget.

Rent a Car for your Road Trip

Planning a road trip to Magdalen Islands? Get in early to book a car or caravan. Compare prices and find deals on CarRentals.

Pre-book tickets

Get inspired and browse activities and tours ahead of your Magdalen Islands trip. Most Viator bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.


Magdalen Islands Essentials


Destination in Quebec province

Unique Stays and Popular Hotels


Destination in Quebec province