Never heard of the Magdalen Islands—known in French as Les Îles de la Madeleine? Well, William Tang has got you covered. The travel blogger shares why one should visit the archipelago smack in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Most people come to the islands to see the seals on the packed ice that surrounds the island. But because of climate change, the ice needs to be thick enough for helicopters to land. While that has not been possible for a few years, Will took the opportunity to have the Magdalen Islands all to himself.
Once you arrive on the magnificent Magdalen Islands and settle in your hotel, you must think, what’s next? Well, Will has shared a few things he wants people to do when in the Magdalen Islands in winter.
- Visit Lighthouses
There are six lighthouses on the Islands, but only three are on the main connected islands. Sitting on top of a hill at 11.5 meters, the circular towered lighthouse has excellent sight lines to a dramatic cliff coastline that leads to Belle-Anse, a popular destination in the summer. To the east is the Cap Alright Lighthouse which was built in 1928. It stands 8.3 meters high and near the edge of a rock cliff stretching out to the sea. These lighthouses caught his attention and left him mesmerized. He wants the same for everyone going there not to miss it.
- Explore Crafts from the Sea
Îles de la Madeleine is full of surprises, and Atelier Cotier is the one you don’t expect to see. Will has interacted with Pauline and her team of artisans to find out how her family business of creating sand sculptures expanded into limitless creativity. What intrigued his interest was how it is more than just a workshop – it’s a gallery, boutique, science center, and playground all wrapped in one. Will advises everyone to spend ample time here to see the greens under a microscope and play in the magnetic sand. The waves of creativity and the collection of excellent products are something you won’t find anywhere else because it’s almost all made in the studio.
- Savor Local Delicacies
According to Will, the businesses on the Islands here offer mouthwatering delicacies exclusive to the Islands. Les Cultures du Large allow you to step into a magical world to experience offshore marine farming techniques. They have an hyperactive museum that explains the unique method of farming oysters and other seafood. Will also specifically recommend everyone put on a VR headset and see what it’s like on a fishing boat and follow this up with a tasting of their fresh oysters.
Right across the street is Le Fumoir D’antan. Will elaborates on how a family single-handedly keeps the art of smoked herring alive. He insists explicitly on trying a few of their samples, including their famous smoked herring. While tasting their famous smoked herring, he said, “Wow, this is packed with flavor. Unexpectedly amazing. Buy some for home”.
Will finds Îles de la Madeleine a beautiful place to visit, especially during Winter. It’s the best part of the year to see how everybody lives on the Islands because it is when nature and the island’s lifestyle reflect their authentic vibe, which altogether offers a perfect time for reconnecting with oneself. By being on these Islands in winter, Will has given practical evidence of his free spirit because the experience is for the bravest and most adventurous people. He is willing to discover what nature has to offer. The beauty of the sea surrounding the Islands, the light, and the snow is indeed unmatched.
Head to Will’s YouTube to learn more about such experiences.
Diana Isabella