Whether you are a lover of open-air activities, or a history enthusiast, you will be charmed by the overwhelming scenery, friendly inhabitants and a wide scope of activities offered on the Island of Coudres.
What to See
From the Cross of Cape to Caya’s Rock, the attractions on the Island of Coudres celebrate its rich history and heritage.
Cross of Cape
Cartier’s two priests celebrated the first mass in Canada on September 7, 1535 when Jacques Cartier planted a cross on the island to take possession of the land in the name of the king of France. The Cross of Cape which dates back to 1957 can be visited to this day and is a reminiscent of the deep faith practiced by Coudres’ ancestors.
French Cemetery (Jacques Cartier Park)
The Jacques Cartier monument can be found in the French Cemetery, the original landfall of Jacques Cartier and his three ships in 1535. After exploring the island, Cartier named it “L'Isle-aux- Coudres” due to the quality and abundance of the fruit of “coudriers”, a small hazelnut tree.
Goélette
While the goélette, the first ferry to run between the island and Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive during the tourist season is no longer existent, you can admire its mast in the French Cemetery.
St-Pierre Chapel
Once an important element of the religious life of the island’s people, St-Pierre Chapel is dedicated to Sainte-Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary and was used to celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi.
Father de La Brosse’s Monument
Erected by priest Epiphane Lapointe in 1848, the Father De La Brosse’s Monument honors Father Jean-Baptiste de La Brosse, who lived on the island between 1766-1767. Father Jean-Baptiste de La Brosse was part of several legends, the most famous legend in which he predicts his own death.
Musée les Voitures d'eau
Step into the past and discover what navigation on the Saint Lawrence River used to be like. Since 1973, the Musée les Voitures d'eau has showcased the history of the seafarers and the sail craft on the Saint Lawrence River.
Caya’s Rock
Visit Caya’s Rock and delight in the tale of Caya, a foolish man who spent half of his life sitting on a rock. Legend further says every new born baby on the island comes from under Caya’s Rock.
Pointe du Bout d'en Bas
A piece of property owned by several individuals, this unique point offers exceptional views of a statue of Notre- Dame de l'Assomption. Built by Mr. Horace Pedneault in 1960, the statue was the result of a promise Mr. Horace Pedneault made for his recovery from an incurable disease.
Moulins de l'Isle
This one of a kind museum houses a fully functional watermill from 1825, a windmill from 1836 and a miller’s residence. Learn about the history of the mills and help tradition live on by purchasing flour made in the authentic millstones, or freshly baked goods made in an old-fashioned clay oven.
Shopping on the Island of Coudres
From specialty shops like Charlotte! Atelier-Boutique to Boîte aux Antiquités et Beaux Arts, the Island of Coudres has unique stores down every street corner.
Atelier Ludovic Gervais, Artiste-Peintre, Verrier
In this gallery, enjoy glassworks including blown, thermoformed and fusioned glass, lamps, vases, plates, jewelry and even sea glass.
Boîte aux Antiquités et Beaux Arts
Boasting an excellent collection of quality 19th and 20th century small antiques from America, Europe and the Orient, art lovers will admire paintings and prints while all visitors will be captivated by the period tool collection.
Charlotte! Atelier-Boutique
Delight in colorful and playful styles in the mini-collections of clothing and accessories for men, women and children. Also serving as a point of sale for artisan recognized in the region, the Charlotte! Atelier-Boutique offers a unique shopping experience.
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Don’t forget your camera; whether it’s the breathtaking surroundings of the Island of Courdes, or its landmarks, there will be moments during your time on the island you don’t want to miss.
Relax and rejuvenate among the beautiful scenery and rich history of this little oasis.