The Magdalen Islands lies in the heart of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. This tiny paradise is approximately 105 km from Prince Edward Island and is about 65 km long. The Islands are composed of twelve small islands and islets, of which seven are inhabited and six are linked together by road. The Islands’ holds a population of approximately 13,000. The majority of its inhabitants are French-speaking. There exist two English-speaking communities, Grosse Ile, located on the east end of the Island with a population of approximately 500 and the other, Entry Island, with a population of approximately 130. Entry Island is the only inhabited Island not connected to the archipelago.

The main industry on the Magdalen Islands is the fishery, with tourism being the second. If you have a taste for seafood, you will surely be amazed by our seafood delicacies. Fresh seafood dishes are prepared at most restaurants and bistros daily. Take the time to experience a fun filled day digging your own clams or fishing your own mackerel, the choice is yours.

The Islands is home to a great number of artisans. Artworks vary from sand sculptors to jewellery, pottery, paintings, music, dance and much, much more. There are numerous boutiques located throughout the islands that sell these amazing art pieces.

There are also various events and activities that take place on the Magdalen Islands including an array of nautical activities. Whether it be kayaking around the red sandstone cliffs, exploring our many vibrant colourful caves, or discovering our beautiful golden sand beaches. We are home to “Old Harry Beach” – acclaimed as one of the best beaches in North America. You will be astounded by the beauty, rested by the tranquillity, and amazed with our natural wonders!

If you enjoy making sandcastles, the beautiful sandcastles created on the Sandy Hook beach during the annual sandcastles competition will astonish you. The annual little boats competition held during the Acadian Festival is also an Islands’ favourite. In this competition, teams have only a few hours to build a boat using limited supplies, set sail and race other teams without sinking! This event is tonnes of fun to watch! These events take place on the Island of Harve-Aubert.

Engage in a day of excitement and Adventure with Aerosport. If you are an adventurer, you will enjoy a day of kite surfing, boogie boarding or a kayak expedition. If you enjoy outdoor activity during the winter months, you are sure to have fun with Aerosport.

To acquire the many more opportunities awaiting you on the Magdalen Islands, please consult the Magdalen website at: www.ilesdelamadeleine.com or the Tourist Association’s website www.tourismilesdelamadeleine.com