Making the most of Iles de la Madeleine Quebec
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ships use the commercial pier at Cap Aux Meules, the busiest island in the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago. It is about 1 km from the centre.
Îles de la Madeleine is a beautiful archipelago in the heart of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. In Cap-aux-Meules, enjoy vibrant landscapes and seascapes, colourful houses, dunes and cliffs. Nearby Fatima has the protected bird-watching wetland of Sentier du Barachois, while town boutiques await at center d’achats Place des Îles. Take in the magical views and the Gulf's quaint red and white lighthouses.
Getting around
Three beaches offer abundant water activities. Dune du Nord and De l'Hôpital Beach are easily reached from Belle-Anse, where waves have carved the cliffs into sheer drops, smooth swirls and precarious projections.
Food and shopping
As well as the islands' administrative centre, Île du Cap-aux-Meules has many artisan shops, lively pubs and inviting restaurants.
Money
The currency is the Canadian dollar.