This is not a wilderness untouched by human endeavour, yet the seascapes and coastlines of the Iles de la Madeleine possess a classic maritime beauty that makes the islands ideal for those seeking solitude, sea air, and picture perfect fishing villages. Dozens of cafes and small restaurants in the Magdalen Islands server such local delicacies as snow crabs, scallops, and blue mussels.

The Iles de la Madeleine remains one of Quebec’s best kept secrets. Birders, especially Americans, are drawn by the chance to spot a variety of seabirds and migrants. Almost 200 species have been catalogued on the islands, ranging from great blue herons to tiny golden finches.