The Îles de la Madeleine are a prime destination for lovers of outdoor activities and offer a wide range of new and interesting activities. Conditions are ideal for kiting and all other related wind sports such as kite buggy.

Those of you who enjoy cycling will feast your eyes on the magnificent views of the sea along our cycle paths. There are also many interesting hiking trails. Horseback riding and buggy rides are also available.

The archipelago's richly varied ecosystem includes many different zones: forest, wildlife reserves, dunes and wetlands. Take the time to participate in some of the observation and nature interpretation activities that will introduce you to these fascinating areas. Situated as they are in the middle of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the Islands are an important stopping place for many species of migrating birds. As a result, the archipelago is an excellent place for birding. The various outdoor activities centres on the Islands offer package deals for all of these activities.

Although September is a very busy month for outdoor adventure activities and events, there are still plenty of places in the Islands where you can find peace and quiet. If you are looking for energy renewal, look into those businesses specializing in health tourism.

Autumn in the Iles de la Madeleine is usually a mild, gentle season. The maritime climate prolongs the warmth of summer, and the water stays warm enough for swimming, water sports or other outdoor activities. In September, calm returns to the Islands, the light is softer and the scenery takes on a languorous, infinitely lovely appearance. A delight for photographers, who will surely return home with a unique pictorial record of their stay.

Aerotourism:

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For fans of Aerotourism, the Îles de la Madeleine are a preferred destination. Seen from the air, the islands and islets, the lagoons and the sea offer an exotically enchanting spectacle. There is one airport on the archipelago, located on Havre-aux-Maisons. Most of the services essential to this type of activity are present.

Because of their geographical location in the heart of the Saint-Lawrence, the Islands are located directly on the routes used by pilots coming from the Gaspé Peninsula, Prince Edward Island, the North Shore, Labrador and the United States.

The Îles de la Madeleine are year-round partners in the Ecofly Aerotourism Network.

Buggy Ride:

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Take a ride in a horse-drawn buggy along the scenic roads in Pointe Basse: it's an original idea and a great way to take in the charming scenery in summer or the sparkling ice on the winter lagoons. Your guide will be delighted to answer any questions you may have about the local heritage and history as well as the local artists and craftspeople.

Kite:

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For kiting, there is no place on earth better than the Islands! The winds are reliable and large open spaces like the beaches make it easy to test your skills on acrobatic kites, power kites or any other wind-powered devices. Specialized boutiques organize competitions, demonstrations and construction workshops.

Beware of power lines. Make sure it is safe to fly before you send your kite up. Transport Canada rules forbid the operation of any flying apparatus (kite, remote-controlled planes, ultra-lights, etc.) within 5 nautical miles from an airport (+ or - 10 km). Ask the specialists to suggest safe places for you to practice flying your kite.

Horseback riding:

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Horseback riding on the boundless beaches and hillsides of the Îles de la Madeleine, is an incomparable experience spiced with adventure and the freedom of the great outdoors. Lessons are available for those wishing to improve their riding skills.

Golf and mini-golf:

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You can also play golf on the Îles de la Madeleine. Experts will enjoy the 9-hole course in l'Étang-du-Nord. Family groups will have a great time on the 18-hole mini-putt in Dune-du-Sud.

Nature Interpretation:

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The distinctive environment of the Îles de la Madeleine lets nature lovers study several different habitats: dune, lagoon, forest, peat bog, salt marsh, etc. Interpretation panels are posted along the paths meandering through all of these milieus explaining the natural environment for those who want to learn more about it while they are admiring the incredibly beautiful surroundings. Experienced professionals offer guided interpretation tours, a type of visit which is much more interesting than a self-guided tour. The local guides can provide information that will make your outdoor adventure a much more rewarding experience.

Ornithology:

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Everyone knows that the charm and authenticity of the Îles de la Madeleine make the archipelago a superb holiday destination. Furthermore, with more than 300 listed species, the Islands are a worthwhile, even exceptional destination for serious birdwatchers. So why not take advantage of this unique two-in-one package ?

Consut our Ornithology section.

Hiking:

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There are good walking trails on each of the islands and you can also take long scenic walks along panoramic secondary roads winding among the hills or along deserted beaches.

Consult the Hiking section for information on our trails and outfitters.

Cycling:

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Where else could you be astride your bike and still in such close contact with the sea?

Route 199, the main road linking the islands, has a paved shoulder over most of its length. You can also travel along secondary roads and take in the extraordinary scenery.

Check out the cycling section and discover the cycling circuits in the archipelago.

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