The Route verte runs along the main road (199) that links most of the archipelago's larger islands.  At the southern tip, the first section of marked trail covers 23 km, running from the La Grave Historical Site through the Parc du Site de La Côte in L'Étang-du-Nord, up to the Borgo lighthouse at Cap Hérissé, which is famous for its magnificent sunsets.  The second section covers 14 kilometres from La Pointe in Havre-aux-Maisons to the Détroit bridge near Pointe-aux-Loups.

Starting from the Route verte, you have infinite possibilities for side trips off the beaten track !  Bike along one of the five suggested panoramic routes or take one of the off-route bike trails. These run along the cliffs on Cap-aux-Meules, from L'Étang-du-Nord, Fatima and Grande-Entrée.

A Route verte favorite

From the chemin La Martinique at Étang-du-Nord, cycle along the Havre aux Basques dune to the La Grave Historical Site on Havre Aubert Island.  This stretch of the Route verte runs along the main road (199) between two bays, and is exposed to winds from all directions.

On one side, the bare hills of Entry Island rise over the waters of the Baie de Plaisance. On the other, Havre aux Basques Bay is home to a wide variety of avian fauna. As you ride by, you can admire the bold stunts of the kite boarders and wind surfers who hang out here.  You should also pull off at one of the many roadside rest areas along the panoramic route so you can take a dip in the invigorating waters of the Gulf or just relax on the fine white sand at La Martinique beach.

On Havre Aubert Island, before arriving at the La Grave Historical Site, you will see a myriad of colourful traditional houses clinging to the slopes of Les Demoiselles.  At La Grave, the pebble beach that used to be an important centre for fisheries and business still keeps its maritime feel.  Fill your lungs with the fresh salt air, enjoy this special place where you can meet people, chat, stroll and enjoy the relaxed mood.

For more information on the Route verte, click here.