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The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Day 1: Arrive in Saint-Pierre and Start Exploring

You’ll likely arrive in Saint-Pierre, the main town on the island of the same name. After you get settled in at your hotel or guesthouse, wander the streets to get a feel for the area. Saint-Pierre is small, so it’s an easy place to explore on foot.

Head to the town’s waterfront. From there, you’ll see colorful fishing boats. It’s a great spot to watch daily life in this little slice of France. Take some time to check out the local shops, bakeries, and cafes. This is a great opportunity to try some French pastries or pick up local goods.

Later in the day, visit Place du Général de Gaulle. This central square is surrounded by lively streets filled with local shops and restaurants. It’s a great spot to enjoy some traditional French food like crêpes or even the freshest locally-caught seafood.

If you have the energy, check out Musée Heritage. The museum offers insight into the history of the islands, including their role in the cod trade and the area’s involvement during Prohibition.

Where to Eat

For dinner, local seafood restaurants are your best bet. Try L’Atelier Gourmand for fine dining or Le Feu de Braise for hearty dishes. You won’t be disappointed.

Day 2: Visit Île aux Marins

Today, take a quick ferry ride to Île aux Marins, also known as “Sailors’ Island.” The trip only takes about 10 minutes, and the island is a wonderful day trip from Saint-Pierre. Once a thriving fishing village, it’s now a peaceful and largely abandoned location that feels frozen in time.

On the island, stroll past traditional wooden houses and visit the Écomusée, where you’ll learn about life on the island in the 19th and 20th centuries. The church (Église Notre-Dame-des-Marins) is also worth a visit. It’s a quaint, white building with a great view of the waterfront.

While on Île aux Marins, you can also hike some of the trails that take you up to viewpoints of Saint-Pierre. It’s a serene place to spend your day surrounded by nature and history.

What to Bring

Bring a packed lunch, as there aren’t many food options on the island. Pack your camera, comfortable shoes, and a jacket, as it can get windy.

Evening Back in Saint-Pierre

Once you return to Saint-Pierre, spend a relaxing evening at a local bar or café. Try a glass of French wine or local craft beer. Café de la Mairie is a cozy option. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this unique little slice of Europe in North America.

Day 3: Head to Miquelon

Today, you’ll take a ferry to Miquelon, the larger yet less populated island in the archipelago. The trip takes a little over an hour. It’s a scenic ride, especially if you travel later in the day when you can catch the sunset on the way back.

When you arrive on Miquelon, explore the town by foot. It’s a small village with a population of fewer than 1,000 people. Get a glimpse of local life by visiting artisan shops or even stopping by the local post office, one of the island’s central hubs.

Hiking or Walking Around Nature

Miquelon is known for its natural beauty. Take a hike to discover beautiful landscapes, including rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. Seal Cove (Anse à Henry) is a must-see and is only a short walk from the main town. If you’re lucky, you might spot seals lounging near the water.

Spend your afternoon hiking or just relaxing near the shore. The quietness and isolation here are a sharp contrast to life in busier areas. Pack a picnic and enjoy the slow pace of island life.

Return to Saint-Pierre in the Evening

After a full day of exploring Miquelon, hop on the ferry back to Saint-Pierre. You’ll have time to grab a relaxed dinner or just enjoy the town’s peaceful evening atmosphere.

Day 4: Explore Saint-Pierre in Depth

After spending a few days getting your footing, it’s time to really dive into the history and charm of Saint-Pierre. Start your day with a visit to the Pointe aux Canons Lighthouse. It’s one of the town’s iconic spots, and while it’s no longer operational, it offers stunning views of the bay.

Learn About Prohibition Days

Next, visit the Archipelitude Museum. It’s dedicated to the island’s fascinating history as a base for alcohol smuggling during the Prohibition era in the United States. You’ll find plenty of stories about gangsters, speakeasies, and Saint-Pierre’s sudden influence across the Atlantic.

After that, take a walk to the island’s old fishing neighborhoods. While Saint-Pierre isn’t as reliant on fishing today, it was once the backbone of the economy. Some of the old homes still stand, offering a glimpse into the island’s past. It’s a quiet area for a peaceful stroll.

Relaxing Afternoon

If you prefer something more active, you can rent a bike and explore more of the island. The roads are generally pretty quiet and easy to navigate, making it a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.

For dinner, try to find a restaurant serving moules frites (mussels with fries), a specialty here thanks to the abundant seafood.

Day 5: Day Trip to Langlade

On your final day, head to the island of Langlade. It’s connected to Miquelon by a sand isthmus and is a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll have to take a ferry from Saint-Pierre (just like you did for Miquelon), but it’s a short ride.

Langlade is largely uninhabited and known for its wild beauty. There are forests, beach dunes, and open fields to explore. It’s the perfect place for hiking or just spending some time in solitude, surrounded by nature. This is also one of the best spots in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon if you’re into bird watching.

Picnic on the Beach

Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the beaches. The southern part of the island, known as Grande Plage, is especially scenic and a peaceful spot for a final reflection on your trip. There won’t be many people around, so you’ll likely have the beach all to yourself.

Head Back to Saint-Pierre

After a relaxing day on Langlade, return to Saint-Pierre in the late afternoon. Spend your final evening enjoying a laid-back dinner and perhaps one last walk along the waterfront.

Final Thoughts

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon offer a unique mix of history, culture, and nature. In just five days, you can explore most of what these islands have to offer without feeling rushed. Whether you’re learning about the area’s role in the Prohibition era or simply hiking through untouched wilderness, you’ll get a trip that feels like a slice of France and North America all in one.

It’s a perfect destination for those looking to slow things down and enjoy a different side of travel. Just remember to bring a jacket, as the weather can get chilly no matter when you visit!

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