Route | |||
From the ferry dock to the lighthouse | 2 km | 40 min | 15 min. |
From the ferry dock to the Bout d’en bas (eastern tip) | 3 km | 1 hr. | 20 min. |
From the Bout d’en haut (western tip) to the Bout d’en bas (eastern tip) | 13 km | 4.5 hr. | 45 min. |
From the ferry dock to the Bout d’en haut (western tip) | 10 km | 3.5 hr. | 30 min. |
As you explore Île Verte, you’ll be immersed in its peaceful beauty and discover its stunning shorelines that open onto breathtaking landscapes.
There’s nothing more pleasant than a bike ride on the island’s roads. It's the best way to explore the island from tip to tip. At 13 kilometres in length, the island is easily accessible even to less-experienced cyclists. What a pleasure to pedal along its winding roads, refreshed by a light sea breeze while admiring the beautiful landscapes of the southern shore of the St. Lawrence. On the north side of the island, the roads lead to the Île Verte lighthouse, a must-see attraction, and to magnificent panoramic views of the mountains of the Charlevoix and the waters of the St. Lawrence estuary.
The hidden treasures of the island can only be discovered on foot. Whether following the roads or wandering the shoreline, you can contemplate the exceptional land- and seascapes of this little corner of paradise. For the more experienced, we suggest a hike in the wilder part of the island, along the north shore of the island facing the St. Lawrence estuary. From this vantage point, the panoramic views are among the most spectacular in Quebec. Don’t forget your camera!
While hiking on the island, you'll have the opportunity to see beautiful wildflowers and plants. The island’s landscapes are filled with seaside wildflower species such as sea bluebells, the island’s emblematic flower that grows on the north shore, blue flag irises, beach peas and stunning thickets of wild roses whose beauty and fragrance enchant the passerby.
Despite its small size, Île Verte has quite a variety of wildlife, including large land mammals like deer and moose, and small game and fur-bearing animals such as foxes, hares and squirrels. In addition, the island is the perfect vantage point from which to observe marine mammals such as whales, porpoises, belugas, grey seals and harbour seals.
Amateur birdwatchers and experienced ornithologists alike will be amazed by the wide variety of bird life on the island. A total of 365 different species of birds have been identified here. Several types of warblers and ruffed grouse are common, and both great grey and snowy owls occasionally favour us with a visit. Numerous species of waterfowl frequent the island and the surrounding waters, including great blue herons, often seen on the south shore, and small families of common eider that feed along the north shore. As always, birds and wildlife should be observed but not disturbed.