Located in the St. Lawrence Estuary, 5 km north of Trois-Pistoles, this jewel of natural heritage has been managed by the Société Provancher for over 100 years. It is a national historic site, a migratory bird sanctuary and a nature reserve. The public is fortunate to be able to visit Île-aux-Basques in a way that allows wildlife to reproduce and live in peace. Three-hour guided cruises are available. You can also rent one of four rustic cottages on the waterfront.
More than 5 km of hiking trails cover the island’s 2 km length and 400 m width. A wide variety of plants are present, many of them of the Nordic type. This is due to the harsh climatic conditions and exposure to the violent offshore winds. The diversity of flora is due to the island’s unique geographical location, which is the point of transition from fresh to salt water.
Over 229 species of birds can be observed here. The most common species are the common eider, double-crested cormorant, great blue heron, herring gull and great black-backed gull. The waters around Île-aux-Basques are recognized as a permanent habitat for marine mammals such as belugas, minke whales, harbour porpoises, harbour seals and grey seals.
Visited as early as the 8th century by Iroquoians and Algonquians to rest and trade, Île aux Basques became one of the first points of contact between Europeans and Amerindians in Canada. From 1584 to 1637, it was occupied on several occasions and on a seasonal basis by the Basques, to whom it owes its name.
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