Quebec Has A Park Filled With Monoliths & Puffins That Feels Like A Different Planet

It's DEF worth the long drive or flight!
Senior Writer

If you ever want to feel like you've travelled to another country — another planet, even — without leaving Quebec, then Réserve de parc national de l'Archipel-de-Mingan is just the place.

It's home to Canada's largest concentration of monoliths, which are basically huge rock formations (these ones are made of limestone).  

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The archipelago is made up of 1,000 islands and islets, which attract incredible flora and fauna. In addition to puffins, it's possible to see whales, seals and more.

Activities include island-hopping on an inflatable boat, hiking, chilling on the beach, and camping or staying overnight in unique accommodations like a lighthouse inn and drop-shaped "duplex." 

Note that not all the activities and accommodations are currently unavailable but are set to begin this summer. 

The park is located in Côte-Nord so it'll take about 13 hours by car, but you can also fly* to Sept-îles or Havre-Saint-Pierre. As you can see, it's well worth the trek!

Réserve de parc national de l'Archipel-de-Mingan

Price: Varies depending on the season, activities and accommodations

Address: 1340, rue de la Digue, Havre-Saint-Pierre, QC

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

*This article has been updated.

  • Ilana Belfer
  • Editor

    Ilana Belfer (she/her) was an editor for MTL Blog. She's obsessed with great storytelling in all its forms having worked in print, radio, television, theatre, and digital media over the past decade. A graduate of Carleton University’s journalism program, her words have appeared in The Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, The Kit, VICE, Salon, Foodism TO & more — covering everything from cam girls to COVID-19. Ilana can usually be found with her dog André, tracking down Montreal’s prettiest ruelles vertes and tastiest treats.

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