The Magdalen Islands '22
Jun 19-25, 2022
7 days | Canada | Quest Nature Tours
Many miles from the closest mainland, the tiny crescent-shaped archipelago of the Magdalen Islands - or Îles-de-la-Madeleine - feels remote in so many ways. Here, far away from the outside world, a constant breeze sweeping over these 12 islands has sculpted red sandstone cliffs, dwarfed the forests, and formed sand dunes, connecting some islands together and enclosing a series of lagoons protected from the open seas. Settled permanently since the 18th century, the people here have also adapted to this remarkable environment and created a unique culture. Over the course of our week here based in our sea-view auberge, we’ll have a chance to explore this world apart and experience a sense of solitude and connection where time seems to have stood still.
We’ll walk sand-dune trails with delicate plants and explore the interdunal bogs, fens, and saltmarshes, watching for sundews and other fragile plant life. We’ll attune to the sights and sounds of resident shorebirds and waterbirds such as the endangered Piping Plover and the highly localized Black-headed Gull as they pursue their breeding activities along unspoiled beaches and in the lagoons. We’ll watch for Grey and Harbour Seals looking back at us as they course the shallows. As we walk along paths at higher altitudes, we may see a number of songbirds in a surprisingly boreal habitat and get sweeping views of the archipelago as we enjoy the fresh sea air. We’ll also gain a sense of the cultural mosaic deriving from French-speaking Acadia and the British Isles as we visit the friendly island communities. Our meals are always a highlight, and we’ll enjoy selections featuring seafood and more with local flair! Each day will yield something different.
For a short, restorative trip to an out-of-the-way part of Canada, join us as we enjoy a week of discoveries on the Magdalens!
Tour Cost (per person):
Approx. C$2395 + 15% GST (Incl. gratuities)
Group Size:
10 - 14 participants
What’s included: Accommodation in double occupancy in the Magdalen Islands; all meals; gratuities for services provided by Quest; ground transportation; park entrance fees; services of Quest naturalist leader Alan Watson and of a local guide
Itinerary at a Glance
Day | Activity |
1 | Meet in the Magdalen Islands, welcome dinner |
1 - 6 | Exploring the Magdalens |
7 | Depart |
Download Itinerary
Your Tour Leader
As a former faculty member in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, Alan Watson taught nature interpretation, environmental stewardship and a conservation field course. With over 25 years of experience leading nature tours, Alan has guided groups in southern Ontario, Canada's Maritime Provinces, Trinidad and Tobago, the Lesser Antilles, Costa Rica, Brazil, Tanzania, and the Galapagos.
Email Us
Or call 1-800-387-1483 with any questions or to reserve your spot!