5 Photo Ops in St. Pierre et Miquelon
By Newfoundland & Labrador
Does your Newfoundland and Labrador vacation include a side trip to France? Our neighbouring islands of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon offer the chance to reach the riches of French culture, food, and exploration just 25 kilometres from the shores of our province. You’ll notice a distinct French twist on the architecture, language, and way of life of our neighbours to the south, but one thing we definitely have in common is breathtaking coastal scenery and vibrant colours around every corner – a photographer’s dream! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just looking to get that perfect shot for social media, be sure to check out our top five photo ops in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon.
1. Pointe-aux-Canons Lighthouse, Saint-Pierre
The Pointe aux Canons lighthouse looks great from land or sea! Photo courtesy of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Tourism.
If you decide to visit Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, you’ll be greeted by Saint-Pierre’s iconic lighthouse – a sign that you’ve arrived in our little piece of France. Take the “Petit Gravier” to Sailor’s Island to photograph the lighthouse from the water with the colourful town behind it or walk to the battery to photograph it from land with Sailor’s Island as a backdrop.
While you’re in the area
Boat tours are a great way to get a new perspective on the lighthouse and waterfront before continuing on to search for whales and seabirds. If you decide to photograph the lighthouse from land, enjoy your stroll along the waterfront and be sure to stop into the colourful fishing sheds to say hello to the Zigotos!
2. Anse à Pierre, Saint-Pierre
From the Anse à Pierre lookout, you can capture all the colours of Saint-Pierre. Photo courtesy of Danielle Ambs.
To capture the colours and architecture of Saint-Pierre, make your way up the steep hill behind the town to the l’Anse à Pierre lookout, where you’ll find sweeping views in every direction and a great perspective on picturesque Sailor’s Island in the background. On a clear day, look across the water to see the coast of Newfoundland!
While you’re in the area
The Anse à Dinand hiking trail begins at the end of the road to the l’Anse à Pierre lookout. Book a guided hike with the Maison de la Nature and take advantage of transportation to and from the trail!
A hike to the Miquelon Cape. Photo courtesy of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Tourism.
On the rugged island of Miquelon, you’ll find wide-open spaces and breathtaking coastal vistas. One of the most spectacular views on the island is at the Miquelon Cape, located just outside the village of Miquelon. The Cape’s well-marked hiking trail is a great way to discover the many views this area has to offer.
While you’re in the area
Book a stay at the Auberge de l’Ile in Miquelon and spend a few days exploring this magnificent island. The village of Miquelon is filled with history, culture, and great food. Enjoy a meal focused on local ingredients at The Mayou’naise restaurant - and don’t forget to order a locally brewed Miqu’Ale beer from the Brasserie Artisanale de l’Anse!
4. The isthmus, Miquelon
As you roam the isthmus, keep an eye out for wildlife! Photo courtesy of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Tourism.
Miquelon and Langlade are connected by a 12 km sandy isthmus, referred to locally as “the Dune.” You’ll want to have your camera ready; the dune is home to a lagoon filled with seals, a roaming herd of horses, and beautiful panoramic ocean views.
While you’re in the area
The “Village and Landscapes” tour will show you everything Miquelon has to offer, including the best viewpoints of the Dune and other very photo-worthy locations across the island.
5. Ile aux Marins
A visit to Ile aux Marins is like taking a step back in time. Photo courtesy of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Tourism.
Ile-aux-Marins (Sailor’s Island) was once home to a bustling settlement of fishermen and their families. As the small-scale fishery declined and residents started packing up to move to the “mainland” of Saint-Pierre, the island become frozen in time, and is now a living monument to a former way of life. A short boat ride from Saint-Pierre will bring you to Sailor’s Island where you can explore by foot (no cars here!) and wander among the beautifully restored buildings, many of which are now summer homes to descendants of the island’s original inhabitants. With coastal scenery on all sides, a new perspective on the island of Saint-Pierre, and a plethora of colourful historic homes and buildings to discover, this place is truly a photographer’s paradise!
While you’re in the area
Interpretive panels throughout the island will help you understand the history of the island, but if you’d like a more in-depth perspective, book a guided tour of the island through the Arche Museum. When you’re finished exploring, pop into the Maison Jézéquel for a snack before returning to Saint-Pierre.
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