Local Information

For many, Canada would seem as a twin country of the United States with its English heritage. However, looking back through its long and colorful history you would find that the French also came to Canada's shores and left behind their equally beautiful culture and of course their language. By its name alone, the town of Havre Saint Pierre is undoubtedly French transplanted right across the Atlantic in Canada's French-speaking province of Quebec.

Coming over to this town would feel as if you just crossed the English Channel to Normandy. But the truth is that you are more than four and a half thousand kilometers away from Britain across the North Atlantic.

Havre Saint Pierre has its own small town charm and appeal that is uniquely French Canadian. It is far from the hustle and bustle of Canada's big cities such as Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal. It exudes a more laid-back lifestyle right at the confluence of Saint Lawrence River and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

Back in its early days, Havre Saint Pierre was but a small, thinly populated fishing village. In the 1940s, explorers found rich deposits of a mineral called ilmenite, the main source of Titanium, a metal highly prized for its strength. From then on it developed into a boomtown.

However, despite the progress that their town achieved, the nature-loving citizens of Havre Saint Pierre managed to take care of their environment and way of life. A testament to their commitment to the environment is the Mingan Archipelago. Just off the town's coast, these tiny islands are the main attractions to visitors to Havre Saint Pierre. It boasts of a beautiful collection of flora and fauna native to the islands.

Visitors can take a ferry ride from the mainland to the archipelago. Upon arrival they will be welcomed into a visitors' centre wherein they will be treated to a short film about the islands. There are also beautiful displays of snapshots of the island's wildlife and its geology. You can likewise take a cruise around the island for a small fee.

At the airport you may also opt for a car hire service. Car hire services can be booked through Car Hire 3000, and you can save up to 10% by booking in advance. Accommodation can be hard to come by but what you will find is of great quality. To get to Havre Saint Pierre take a flight from the UK to Quebec City or a connecting flight from Montreal to Quebec City. From there you can take a bus via Highway 138. The town is approximately 870 kilometers away. Ships also sail along the Saint Lawrence River connecting most major towns and cities in its banks.