Description
Sept-Iles is a hidden gem among the cruise destinations throughout Quebec and a Canadian coastal city that may just surprise you. Located across the St. Lawrence River from the Gaspe Peninsula and largely protected by the Sept-Iles archipelago – a collection of seven small islands sheltering the bay and beaches here from stormy weather and strong winds – Sept-Iles is one of the oldest settlements in this Canadian province. While here, you’ll be met with an interesting blend of cultures, with the indigenous Innu community coming together with the European community, giving Sept-Iles incredible character. Surrounded by rich forests and dramatic mountainous regions, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the first meetings between the indigenous Canadians and European Settlers, indulge in rich French-Canadian cuisine, and explore the rugged rural regions that make up so much of the Great White North. Despite having all the comforts of a modern city to enjoy, Sept-Iles is also the northern-most town in Quebec with a significant population, and this ‘frontier’ to the Canadian wilderness makes this destination special.
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Things to do
Traditional Innu Camp
Sitting on the banks of the stunning Bay of Sept-Iles, the Traditional Innu Camp attraction is an incredible immersive experience where you’ll have the chance to learn more about this indigenous group first-hand. From traditional medicines and drum-making to captivating Innu chants and dazzling dance demonstrations, this experience will afford you a fantastic insight into the Innu community and its history. You’ll also have the chance to sample some traditionally-prepared Innu cuisine, something you definitely won’t want to miss. This is easily one of the best ways to learn more about the indigenous Canadian culture of the Innu.
Le Vieux-Poste
If you’re looking for an insight into what life was like for the European settlers in Quebec several-hundred years ago, this is one of the best places to get just that. An impressive reconstructed 17th-century fur-trading a stone’s throw from the Bay of Sept-Iles, this attraction is a historical interpretation of what life would be like at a trading post in the 19th century, with a focus on the coming together of the indigenous Innu and European cultures. Built using plans from 1786 on a site that was originally an important gathering place for the Innu people throughout summer, visits to the old fur trading post are a must when in Sept-Iles.
Museum of the North Shore Region
For a more traditional look at the history of this incredible area, the Museum of the North Shore Region is the place to go. Located in central Sept-Iles, this museum covers over 8,000 years of history, with a permanent exhibit exploring the natural history of the region north of the St. Lawrence River, the culture of the indigenous groups here, and life after European settlement. Here, you’ll get a fresh understanding of just how courageous and resilient the local indigenous groups have been – and continue to be – while also having the chance to check out over 10,000 items of historical importance. Ever-changing temporary exhibits mean each visit to the Museum of the North Shore Region is unique and rewarding.