“Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, a French Homeland…25km from Newfoundland. The French flag flies high and the people speak with an authentic French accent. The “Gendarmes” stand tall over De Gaulle’s square with their signature “Kepi”. But “The rock” as named by the islanders has its own character.” Louise Bilodeau, travel writer, Québec, FranceGuide 2008

What about a week in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon? Come and feel the French “Art de vivre”. Enjoy your vacation and discover the landmarks of the islands. When planning a trip and time is limited, keep in mind that a three night stay is minimal to visit the islands.

Saint-Pierre (6000 inhabitants) with its narrow streets and brightly coloured houses is the administrative and commercial town of the archipelago. Built around its harbour Saint-Pierre welcomes both fishing and pleasure boats. In winter few vessels are afloat swaying with the wind, but during the summer the harbour is bustling with activity. Sometimes sailing boats dock at this charming but unknown haven. The town is nestled near the mountain and easily explored by foot. In season wild berries can be picked. At an altitude of 200 meters the view extends to Newfoundland, where on most days one can distinctly see the coastline of the Burin Peninsula.

The islands of Miquelon and Langlade make up a territory of 200 square kilometers and are linked by an isthmus where one can find mounds of sand «buttereaux», upon which grow abundant wild strawberries. This sand dune marks the barrier between the ocean and a large lagoon called «le Grand Barachois» where colonies of seals rest on the sand banks. Miquelon island is a charming village with a population of 600. Inter Island travel is provided by a harbour and an airport. One can also embark or disembark by zodiac at “l’Anse du Gouvernement” a cove on the island of Langlade, a genuinely unique experience.

In 2007, the town of Miquelon commemorated its first engraved symbol dedicated to “The big Movement”. In 1763 Acadians were deported but Grand-Pré and Beauséjour descendants return to the island and make up todays community.

Both Miquelon and Langlade islands constitute a remarkable natural heritage. While taking a detour from one of the walking trails look out for an artic tern watching over her nest or take care not to frighten a white-tailed deer.

Courtesy of Comité Régional du Tourisme - CRT. Saint Pierre and Miquelon © Copyright 2008-2009