The canyon loop Bassin itinerary

“The origin and meaning of this expression remain truly mysterious. I was once told that the winding road on the La Montagne side somewhat evoked a canyon, but it remains vague. What is more certain is that the Magdalen Islanders used to drive the canyon loop on Sundays,” says Maude Jomphe, owner of the Maison Papier boutique at the Petit hôtel de la Montagne.

Maude carefully selects the works of local artists that she displays in her boutique. This is how she heard this local expression, which inspired her to create her own postcard of the Magdalen Islands canyon loop.

You will find printed copies of this delightful map at her counter, a perfect coffee stop to begin your own Bassin tour, to be sipped on a terrace with a stunning view, enjoying carefully prepared coffee!

Take the opportunity to visit Espace de la Montagne, a place dedicated to the dissemination of contemporary visual art in the Magdalen Islands, located at the same address.

Everyone knows La Grave, the Capes of L’Étang-du-Nord and Fatima, and the gourmet district of Havre-aux-Maisons, but too few visitors to the archipelago take the time to explore Bassin, L’Étang-des-Caps, and La Montagne, the western part of Havre Aubert Island that is collectively known as Bassin.

Yet, it is an idyllic place to meet talented artisans, discover the wooded side of the Islands, and enjoy the Dune de l’Ouest, which is almost always deserted.

Here are our favorites to discover on this outing to the archipelago for your next Magdalen Islands road trip, listed on Maude’s postcard.

First, visit Espace de la Montagne, an art gallery operating from June to September beneath the boutique, featuring contemporary artists.

With your Bassin map in hand and perhaps some works by local artisans from Maison Papier, head back to Site d’Autrefois or Shed à Jean-Guy. There, you will experience an unparalleled introduction to the lifestyle of fishermen and islanders. Discover humorous, cultural, and historical anecdotes thanks to these friendly characters!

The Ébourriflés are thriving at the alpaca farm. Book an educational visit to meet these charming animals, stop by the boutique to stock up on spun wool, or, on the first Fridays of the month, participate in a fun knitting session.

One of our favorite walks in the Islands passes by the next stop: Dune de l’Ouest beach, an impeccable, rarely crowded beach, perfect for stretching your legs and admiring the sunset at the end of the day.

The second part of the Bassin Canyon Tour circuit highlights local artists and creators, whether it’s the photographs of La Mémoire et la Mer, at the workshop of ceramist Patrick Leblond, or at Mailles-en-mer, a most welcoming coffee-knitting menu.

Keep your eyes peeled as you go to spot the giant red chair or the pretty Les Rochers architect’s house perched on its hill!

To meet other artists, consult the La RéCréation calendar, a cultural space that programs intimate music shows year-round. The large, inviting room also features many paintings by artist Louis Robichaud.

Stop by the Jardins Havre Vert farm, the Domaine des Salanges vineyard (closed in 2026), or the Fromagerie Les Biquettes à l’air cheese factory to stock up on local products, or stop at the Le Millerand restaurant for a delicious meal with a water view!

Prefer a snack? Head to Cantine Marie-Luc or the Jalco grocery store, whose shelves are filled with flavors from Magdalen Islands producers. Depending on the time of day you plan your Canyon Tour, brunch or lunch at Les Araynes will give you all the energy you need for the day.

On the terrace or in the charming dining room, Bassin’s flavor creators will serve you carefully prepared Magdalen Islands ingredients!

Bassin contains countless viewpoints as well as a forest density rather distinctive from the rest of the archipelago. Take the side roads to discover them, but also visit these essential places to take in the panoramas:

• Millerand Wharf
• Anse-à-la-Cabane lighthouse
• Lac Solitaire
• Fred Jomphe Park to admire kitesurfers
• Istorlet Nautical Center to discover the basin that gives its name to this part of the Islands

To conclude your Canyon Tour as the Magdalen Islanders once did, add a modern touch they couldn’t enjoy: an aperitif tasting at Verger Poméloi where the distillery products are sure to refresh you. We have a soft spot for the Escarbille!

So, is Bassin calling you? Share your experience with us on social media by tagging Maison Mer (@maisonmer).

Enjoy your canyon loop!