Iles de la Madelaine, Quebec, Canada

The Iles de la Madelaine (Magdalen Islands) form a small archipelago in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence with a land area of 205.53 square kilometres (79.36 sq mi). Though closer to Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, the islands form part of the Canadian province of Quebec.

Tourism is a major industry on the Magdalen Islands. The islands have many kilometers of white sand beaches, along with steadily eroding sandstone cliffs. It is an excellent destination for bicycle camping, sea kayaking, windsurfing and kitesurfing. During the winter months, beginning in mid-February, eco-tourists visit to observe new-born and young harp seal pups on the pack ice in the Gulf of St. Lawrence surrounding the islands.

Things to see and do

* Eco-tourism
* Sea Kayaking
* Windsurfing
* Harp seals
* Biking & hiking

General Information

Cruise Season – May - Nov
Currency – Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Language – English, French
Population – 12,800 approx
Time – GMT minus three and a half hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 1

Transport Links – The Coopérative de transport maritime et aérien (Groupe C.T.M.A.) operates a ferry service between terminals in Souris, Prince Edward Island and Cap-aux-Meules. Groupe C.T.M.A. also operates a seasonal cruise ferry service between the islands and Montreal.

The Magdalen Islands Airport at Havre-aux-Maisons offers scheduled air service to the Maritimes and mainland Quebec.