Parc National de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-Saint-Étienne

Parc National de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé is a national park on the eastern tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, in the Gaspésie region of Quebec, made up of Bonaventure Island (the Île-Bonaventure sector) and the famous limestone monolith of Percé Rock, or Rocher Percé, which lie just offshore from the village of Percé. The park can be reached only by boat, and the short crossing from Percé, with its views back at the cliffs and the rock, is part of the experience. Boats run in the warm season, and the island is open from late spring until the autumn.

Bonaventure Island is best known for its seabirds. Its high cliffs are home to one of the largest accessible colonies of Northern Gannet in the world, with more than a hundred thousand birds nesting on the ledges and the tops of the sea cliffs in the summer. Gannets are large white seabirds with black wingtips and a golden head, and they dive into the sea from great heights to catch fish. Seeing them from close range, stacked closely along the cliff, with the noise and smell of a busy colony, is one of the great wildlife spectacles of eastern Canada. Other birds nest on the island too, including murres, razorbills, kittiwakes and cormorants.

Trails of about fifteen kilometres cross the island, running through meadows, spruce and fir forest, and along the cliff edge. The walk to the gannet colony is the main route, and takes about an hour each way across the island, with benches and viewpoints along the way. Visitors who want to learn more can join guided hikes led by park naturalists, which explain the biology of the colony and the history of the island. Wildflowers bloom in the meadows in summer, and seals and sometimes whales can be seen offshore.

The island also has a human history. For generations, fishing families lived on Bonaventure, and the merchants who ran the cod trade, including firms from the Channel Islands, built wharves and storehouses. Some of the old farmhouses and fish stores have been preserved and can be visited, giving a glimpse of life in the period when cod fishing dominated the coast. A small restaurant, washrooms and a nature shop serve visitors near the landing.

Boats are run by independent operators, and the fare is separate from the park’s entry fee, so check both before you go. The park suits birdwatchers, hikers, photographers and families with older children. Wear sturdy shoes, bring layers and waterproofs, and carry water, since services are limited. Plan a half day or a full day, and book a return boat time so you do not miss the last crossing.