Timeline
09:00
Arrive at the dock at L'Anse à Butler. The Restaurant des Margaulx is located just at the foot of the dock, making it the perfect first stop to grab supplies or a coffee before heading out. It is open from 09:00, so you can start right when it opens.
09:30
Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé
Walk to the Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé entrance. This is the gateway to Bonaventure Island. The walk from the dock area is short, allowing you to secure your boat tickets and prepare for the 20-minute journey to the island.
10:00
Disembark on Bonaventure Island. Walk the trails to see the world's largest colony of northern gannets. The island is about 4 km², so you will have plenty of space to wander among the 100,000 birds without feeling crowded. The best light for viewing the white birds against the blue sky is mid-morning.
11:30
Return to the dock and head straight to Restaurant des Margaulx for lunch. If you forgot to pack a lunch, this beautifully restored building serves as your answer. It is open until 17:00 in mid-June through late September, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a meal after your hike.
12:30
End your trip at the Tour d'observation. Located just 18 minutes from the anchor point, this viewpoint offers a final, elevated perspective of the island and the gannet colony from afar. It is a quiet spot to reflect on the day before heading back.
Local tip
The boat ride to Bonaventure Island is short, but the island is large. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The Restaurant des Margaulx is the only food option on the island, so if you are hungry, eat there before or after your visit.
Check before you go
- Restaurant des Margaulx is open Daily 09:00-17:00 from mid-June through late September.
- Check the boat schedule for Bonaventure Island in advance, as departures are timed.
- The park is open during daylight hours; check the specific dates for your visit.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Percé (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).