Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada
What to do in the Mingan region
The Mingan region is an exceptional environment where life is good, as long as man is able to make Nature his ally.
Regional Activities
Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan
The linear park is a magnificent environment within which to take a stroll. Designed to span the village's entire length upon completion, the walking trail has been built alongside the beach. Rest areas where you can admire the sea and the island scenery allow you to enjoy yourself to the full!
Ekuanitshit (Mingan)
Welcoming you at the entrance to this Amerindian community village, the Montagnais Cultural Centre contains information on all the local tourist services. Here you can also take a moment to explore the life of another era, presented in the photo exhibit, « Montagnais Memories ».
Built at the turn of the century by Jack Maloney-the « Jack Maloney » of Gilles Vigneault's famous song-this small church is completely decorated with traditional Montagnais designs.
Havre-Saint-Pierre
A permanent exhibit in the old Clarke and Hudson's Bay Company store depicts highlights from Havre-Saint-Pierre's history and ethnic heritage. Come and relive the history of the Cayens.
A few kilometers east of the village, a magnificent panoramic lookout gives a superb vista of the sea and some of the islands of the archipelago. The « round mountain », well-used by the villagers, is also the ideal place for stargazing on clear nights. Titane Park at the eastern end of the Promenade des Anciens is the perfect place for children.
Baie-Johan-Beetz
During the summer season, you can visit the former home of Johan Beetz, where a most interesting guided tour is offered all summer long. Visiting the home-one-time symbol of a man's wealth and perseverance-is a rewarding experience. Johan Beetz's artistic talents can be admired on certain doors he himself painted with landscapes.
Aguanish
Amongst the region's fascinating geological phenomena, the « saw cut » situated a few kilometers up the river Aguanus is one of the most remarkable. Here you can ask yourself-with good reason!-how the salmon managed to mount such a torrent of water in such a narrow corridor to spawn upstream. Accompanied by a friendly and experienced interpreter, treat yourself to this natural wonder.
Festivals
Much is happening throughout the summer. The festival season kicks off with the Saint-Jean-Baptiste festival on June 24. Local communities celebrate their pride in being Québécois, each in their own special fashion.
In mid-July, the « Festival of the Family » takes place in Havre-Saint-Pierre. This festival provides an excellent opportunity for family fun and entertainment. Festivities take place on a specially set-up site, situated in the eastern end of the village next to the campground. Activities such as inflatable games, a softball tournament, a dance party, a bonfire, fireworks and many others add up to fun for everyone!
Also in July is the Festival of the Paspéyas in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. Choose from the variety of activities such as a « soiree amateur », inflatable games, a softball tournament, a dance party, a bonfire, fireworks and more. It's time to celebrate!
At the end of July, the « Summer Festival of Aguanish » takes place. This mid-summer celebration falls at the height of the tourist season and features a variety of sporting activities and cultural events.
Also at the end of July, the Mingan Reserve « Pow Wow » continues the traditions of the times when, returning from their winter hunting grounds, the Montagnais celebrated their summer reunion along the shores of the Gulf.
Mid-August is time for the « Festival of the Acadians » in Havre-Saint-Pierre, an occasion to celebrate Acadian pride. Festivities include volleyball and softball tournaments, a dance party, an open-air mass