Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, Quebec, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Located on the coast of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence in Quebec, Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is a small village with a big personality. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture and history, and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder why this hidden gem is becoming a popular destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is steeped in history and culture. A visit to these cultural attractions will give you a glimpse of the village’s past.

  1. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve: A unique collection of islands with diverse flora and fauna, and magnificent geological formations. Visitors can hike, camp, kayak and observe birds, seals, and whales that inhabit the area.

  2. Mingan Island Cetacean Study: A non-profit organization that studies marine mammals in the St. Lawrence Estuary and western Gulf of St. Lawrence.

  3. Mingan Church: A national historic site, the Mingan Church was built in the 1930s and features a unique design inspired by traditional Innu teepees.

  4. Old Trading Post of Longue-Pointe: Founded in 1743, the old trading post was part of the fur trade route and has now been converted into a museum.

Natural Attractions of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

With its pristine landscapes and stunning nature reserves, Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan attracts visitors who are looking for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.

  1. Pointe-aux-Esquimaux: A promontory that offers a superb view of the village, the Mingan Archipelago, and the St. Lawrence Gulf. A great location for hiking enthusiasts.

  2. Capuchin Rock: A geological formation that resembles a monk’s hood, Capuchin Rock is one of the most interesting and photographed landscapes in Quebec.

  3. Mingan Island Lighthouse: Officially recognized as a Canadian Heritage Lighthouse, the Mingan Island Lighthouse was established in 1861 and offers spectacular views.

  4. Mingan Bay: With its calm waters, Mingan Bay is a perfect location for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can observe marine life such as seals, whales, and seabirds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

For visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and want to explore the beauty of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, there are many hiking and biking routes available.

  1. Sentier de la Pointe-aux-Esquimaux: This hiking trail, located at Pointe-aux-Esquimaux, is a 2.5 km loop that offers stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

  2. La Grave Trail: This is a 4.5 km trail that connects the village of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan to the Capuchin Rock.

  3. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve Trail: This trail system offers 125 km of hiking trails that lead visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area.

Best Things to Do in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Activities and Tours

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan.

  1. Whale Watching Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour from the village to observe whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

  2. Sea Kayaking: Rent a kayak, and explore the beauty of the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve.

  3. Mingan Island Cetacean Study: Join the researchers of Mingan Island Cetacean Study for an educational day trip, and learn about ongoing work and discoveries made in the field of marine mammalogy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors who want to explore Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan and the surrounding area.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and Check-In
Day 2 Explore the Mingan Bay
Day 3 Take a Whale Watching Tour
Day 4 Hike The Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
Day 5 Kayak in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Day 6 Visit cultural attractions - Old Trading Post and Church
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan has a variety of options for food and drink. Visitors can sip local brews, enjoy traditional Québécois dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Poutine - A Québécois Classic dish, which combinds fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  2. Tourtière - A Meat Pie with chuck or pork cooked of spiced meat.
  3. Cipaille - A meat pie that typically contains chicken, beef, veal, and rabbit, along with potatoes and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. La belle de Mingan IPA - A highly rated IPA beer brewed by the Barbe Broue Pub microbrewery situated in the village
  2. Cid’rerie Et Vergers Pedneault - a cidery that creates original ciders from the apples grown in the region.
  3. Jus de pommes du Verger des Naufrageurs - An apple cider syrup produced locally for use in cocktails and desserts

Where to Stay in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some options for accommodation in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan:

  1. Motel Mingan: Located in the heart of the village, this motel has cozy rooms and all the amenities that a traveler needs.

  2. Auberge Paradis: This cozy inn is only a few minutes from the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve and features comfortable rooms and a friendly ambiance.

  3. Gîte Petite École de Forillon: Located in a historic building that was formerly a school, this bed and breakfast provides unique accommodation features such as a library and a common area with a fireplace.

What to Buy in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan can take a piece of the village home with them by purchasing local souvenirs and products such as:

  1. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve souvenir items - T-shirts, postcards, books, and many other items with the Park’s logo and imagery.

  2. Local artisanal products - Pick up a handmade art craft, such as a wooden coaster or woven rug.

Local Culture and Customs of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is a unique cultural melting pot with influences from both French and First Nations people. Visitors should be aware of the local customs and culture when exploring the village.

Best Time to Visit Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

The best time to visit Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Do:

  1. Respect the natural environment - Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan has a fragile natural environment and ecosystem, so visitors should take care when exploring the area.

  2. Learn about the local culture - Take time to explore the local customs and traditions, and interact with the locals to learn more about their way of life.

Don’t:

  1. Leave traces - Leave No Trace principles are especially important in natural areas, where the ecosystem is delicate.

  2. Disrespect wildlife - Respect the marine life of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and stay at a safe distance from the animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is generally a safe place to visit. Still, visitors should take normal precautions, such as locking their vehicles and belongings when they are out exploring. Be mindful of possible environmental risks when hiking or kayaking.

Health in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Medical facilities are not always close by, so visitors should be aware of their personal health and precautions in advance.

Getting to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is somewhat isolated and is only accessible by car or bus.

Airports Near Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

The nearest international airport to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport, which is approximately 1000 kilometers away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan.

Bus Stations Near Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

Greyhound Canada provides transportation to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, leaving several times per week from Quebec City.

Other Options

Travelers can also opt to drive to Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. The village is located approximately 12 hours northeast of Montreal and 18 hours east of Toronto.

How to Get Around in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan

The best way to explore Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan is by car or bike. Most attractions are spread out, and public transports are limited in the region.

Where to Go Next from Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Travelers can extend their trip to explore nearby destinations such as:

  1. Sept-Îles: Located an hour east of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan and known for its stunning shores and wildlife areas.

  2. Tadoussac: A popular tourist destination on the other side of the river from Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, offering the opportunity to spot whales, seals, and black bears.

Conclusion

Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan offers travelers the chance to experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of Quebec. With its stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and delicious cuisine, visitors are sure to find something to suit their interests.

Catholic church of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan Catholic church of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan in the 1942 crash of the US Army PBY Catalina plane in the 1942 crash of the US Army PBY Catalina plane Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, located in the village of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, located in the village of Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan Naked island of Mingan located 4.3 km southeast of Longue-Pointe, at the western entrance to the Mingan Archipelago. This toponym evokes that the island is bare of trees. Naked island of Mingan located 4.3 km southeast of Longue-Pointe, at the western entrance to the Mingan Archipelago. This toponym evokes that the island is bare of trees. Pebbles and rocks of Île Nue shaped by the wear of the waves. Pebbles and rocks of Île Nue shaped by the wear of the waves. Station of the Île aux Perroquets heritage lighthouse and its outbuildings, located in the Jacques-Cartier Strait, 4.7 km southwest of Longue-Pointe. Station of the Île aux Perroquets heritage lighthouse and its outbuildings, located in the Jacques-Cartier Strait, 4.7 km southwest of Longue-Pointe.