Day 1: Arrival in Saint Pierre
Your journey begins in Saint Pierre, the administrative center of the French overseas territory. Take some time to settle into your accommodation and relax after your travels.
Once you’re ready, take a leisurely stroll around the town. The charming streets are lined with colorful buildings, giving a distinctly French feel despite the island’s location near Canada.
In the evening, visit a local café or restaurant like Les Délices de Joséphine. Try some crepes or seafood, and make sure to taste some freshly baked goods. The food here is top-notch.
Day 2: Explore Saint Pierre
Start your second day with a visit to the L’Arche Museum. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the islands, from the importance of the fishing industry to the Prohibition era when Saint Pierre was a hot spot for bootlegging.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour around the island. You’ll get to see Saint Pierre from a different perspective and catch glimpses of seals or birds along the rugged coastline.
Afterwards, head to the Place du Général de Gaulle, the town’s main square. Relax on a bench and soak in the atmosphere, watching locals chat and kids play. This is a perfect spot for people-watching.
Day 3: Day Trip to Île aux Marins
Today is all about Île aux Marins, a small island just off the coast of Saint Pierre. Take a ferry in the morning, which is a short but scenic ride.
Île aux Marins used to be a thriving fishing village, but it is now mostly deserted. Wander through old houses and visit the remains of the village including Église Notre-Dame-des-Marins, a small but beautiful church.
Pack a picnic for this day and have lunch with a view of the sea. The island’s peaceful atmosphere and history are perfect for a relaxing getaway without the hustle of the town.
Day 4: Saint Pierre Sights and Leisure
Start with a morning visit to the Ile-aux-Marins Museum back in Saint Pierre. This museum will provide deeper insights into the fishing history of the area and the lives of the islanders.
Afterwards, check out Chez Janot fish market to experience the island’s seafood culture. You’ll find catches fresh from the Atlantic.
In the afternoon, take it easy by exploring the beaches around the town. Even though the waters might be chilly, the views are stunning. Bring a camera to capture the scenic landscapes.
Day 5: Drive to Miquelon
It’s time to explore the second-largest island: Miquelon. Rent a car or take a ferry to this quiet escape about 55 kilometers north of Saint Pierre.
Once you arrive, walk around the town of Miquelon. It’s much smaller and quieter than Saint Pierre, but it has its own charm. Visit the Church of Miquelon and the town’s local museum to get a sense of the island’s culture.
End your day with some local seafood, as Miquelon’s fishing culture is still very much alive. Try cod prepared in traditional French ways at a small local restaurant. Fresh seafood doesn’t get much better.
Day 6: Exploring Miquelon-Langlade
Spend your day exploring the island by foot or bicycle. Start with a trip to Dune de Miquelon, a long sandy stretch connecting Miquelon to the smaller island of Langlade. If you’re lucky, you may see some wild horses or seals in the distance.
Hike along the coastal trails that offer beautiful scenery of rugged cliffs and open waters. The landscapes here are wilder than Saint Pierre, and you’ll find fewer people, making it a great day for adventurous travelers.
After your hike, spend the evening relaxing in the town. Grab a croissant or a pastry from a local bakery; the French influence on the local food is strong here!
Day 7: Langlade’s Serenity
Langlade is a nature lover’s paradise. This seldom-explored island is connected to Miquelon by a narrow sand isthmus. You can easily spend the day here hiking through dense forests, picking berries, or birdwatching. The island is quieter and more peaceful than any place you’ve visited so far.
Walk down to Pointe Plate for a breathtaking view of the Atlantic. It’s a great spot to relax and take it all in. You’ll likely have the whole scene to yourself—a private slice of nature.
In the afternoon, make sure to stop by Pointe-aux-Canons Lighthouse. The iconic red-and-white striped building makes for great photos, and it gives you a sense of how isolated and remote these islands really are.
Day 8: Relaxation Day in Miquelon
Today is a slow day, designed for you to recharge. Start with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a walk along the beach or through Miquelon’s small streets.
If you want to spend more time outdoors, you can revisit some of the trails you missed on Day 6. But today is mainly focused on relaxing, perhaps even catching up on reading or journaling about your trip so far.
Wrap up the day with friends at one of the local bars. It’s a great opportunity to chat with locals and reflect on your week in this unique French outpost.
Day 9: Return to Saint Pierre
On your way back to Saint Pierre, you’re probably feeling connected to these beautiful islands. Spend your last full day revisiting your favorite spots. Check out Zazpiak Bat, a fantastic store where you can do some souvenir shopping.
Take a final stroll around the harbor to capture some more photos, and then visit some of the coffee shops you may have missed earlier. There’s nothing like enjoying a fresh cup of coffee while watching the sun reflecting off the blue waters.
For your last dinner, consider Crêperie du Caillou, where you can indulge in some of the best crêpes on the island. Make sure to try one with a local twist—whether it’s seafood or a sweet treat with fresh local fruit.
Day 10: Farewell Saint Pierre
This is your departure day. Depending on when your flight leaves, you can visit a few of the smaller sights that you might have missed or get in one last café visit before heading to the airport.
As you leave, you’ll take with you memories of this unique French territory. It’s not every day that you get to experience the union of French culture and the rugged, wild beauty of North America. Safe travels!
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