Weekend in Gaspé

A 1.5km waterfront boardwalk along the Rivière York, with benches, wildflower gardens, and plaques about local history. Connects to the marina and a small beach.

Tip: Start at the bridge near Rue de la Reine and walk upstream. At dusk, you'll often see seals hunting in the river mouth. Free parking at the marina end.

A grassy headland with a large cross marking where Cartier planted a cross in 1534. Interpretive panels explain the encounter with local Mi'kmaq. Views across Gaspé Bay.

Tip: Go at low tide to see the remains of the old wharf. Bring binoculars for seabird spotting—puffins sometimes appear offshore in late spring.

An outdoor site with a replica of a traditional Mi'kmaq longhouse, birchbark canoe, and storytelling circle. Trail through the boreal forest with plant ID markers.

Tip: Free, but donations appreciated. The staff give informal tours if it's quiet. Best visited in late afternoon when the sun hits the longhouse interior.

Two floors of exhibits on Gaspé's Mi'kmaq heritage, Acadian settlement, and maritime history. Includes artefacts from Jacques Cartier's 1534 landing.

Tip: Admission is $8.50 CAD. Free entry every first Sunday of the month. The gift shop sells local handicrafts at fair prices.

A vast national park where the Appalachian Mountains meet the sea. Walk or cycle the 3km coastal trail to Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse.

Tip: Entry fee (around $9 CAD) covers the whole day. Best value: bring a picnic and spend the afternoon on the pebble beach near Grande-Grave.