Northern Gannet Colonies on Bonaventure Island — Attraction in Percé

The Northern Gannet colonies on Bonaventure Island are truly a sight to behold! Here's a review:

Highlights:

Unforgettable spectacle: Witnessing hundreds of thousands of gannets nesting and flying is an awe-inspiring experience. The sheer numbers are breathtaking. Unique ecosystem: The island offers a glimpse into a unique and fascinating ecosystem, with diverse birdlife beyond the gannets, including puffins, murres, and razorbills. Scenic beauty: The island itself is stunning, with dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Easy access: Boat tours from Percé make the island easily accessible for visitors. Tips for your visit:

Book in advance: Boat tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Wear appropriate clothing: Bring layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bring binoculars: For a closer look at the birds and the surrounding scenery. Be mindful of the environment: Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing the wildlife. Overall:

The Northern Gannet colonies on Bonaventure Island are a must-see for any nature lover visiting the Gaspé Peninsula. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the...

After taking the boat to the island, follow the guide’s introduction, then turn left up the hill. Soon you’ll see two trail signs: Les Mousses (3.6 km, 75 min) and Les Colonies (3.4 km, 1 hr). If you’re with children, I recommend Les Colonies. The trail is not stroller-friendly — it has uneven terrain and several uphill sections. While the official sign suggests 1 hour, with kids it can easily take 1.5 hours. The hike to the colony is the harder part; the return is mostly downhill and much easier.

The trail offers fresh air and a calm forest atmosphere, though the surface is average with some rough patches. A fun tip: if you suddenly notice the strong smell of bird droppings, you’re almost there! At the end, you’ll be greeted by tens of thousands of northern gannets — a truly spectacular sight.

Practical tips: Wear hiking shoes rather than regular sneakers for better grip and stability, and make sure to bring enough water, especially...

This is a must visit when visiting the upper Gaspe region. You need to pay 45$ for a boat pass and another 10$ or so for the park fee per person. However when you get to the top you'll be greates with a beautiful scene of Northern Gannets. Must be thousands there.

There's a canteen at the top with beer, juice, water and snacks for a reasonable price.

The hike to get to the top is a little over an hour with a few choices of trails. One is around the island on the side closer to the water however it's recommended to take it going back as it's going downhill more or less. There's another route for kids and parents with strollers requiring no steps. The other path requires...