Percé Rock in Quebec

Percé Rock is located very close to the town of Percé, which gives it its name. This large monolith is located 750 km from Quebec City and more precisely, in the Gaspé Peninsula. Why does this monument attract so many tourists? Let's find out in this section.

Island and peninsula at the same time, Percé Rock was once part of the shore. This large rock composed of limestone stands out for its size. Measuring 450 meters long by 90 meters wide, it has a height of 85 meters. To get there, you might as well wait for low tide.

Its name actually comes from the arched holes dug by seawater in its structure. This is explained by the infiltration of water into the limestone rock leading to its bursting. The phenomenon often occurs during seasonal changes.

In the past, there were 4 arches on this rock. Today, only one, 30 meters wide, remains visible. In 1845, erosion destroyed one of the arches, leaving only a pillar called the "Obelisk". Poets, artists and writers are fascinated by this superb tourist attraction that is the pride of Quebec. This beautiful bird sanctuary forms a provincial park with Bonaventure Island.

How can we talk about Percé Rock without mentioning the magnificent Bonaventure Island? These are two wonders of nature that together form the park of "Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock". When exploring this beautiful rock, visitors stop at Bonaventure Island to admire all its magnificence.

With an area of 4.16 km2, this island is a heavenly place where migratory birds come to take refuge. A short hike is therefore a must for lovers of picturesque shots. There are up to 293 species of birds on this island. Gulls, seagulls, terns and other rare species nest here.

Tourists come to see the gannets, this rare bird species that can be encountered during an excursion on Percé Rock. These birds are visible in southern Africa, but also in Tasmania. In addition, visitors also see them on Bonaventure Island in Quebec. With an annual increase of 3%, its birds live peacefully without fear of predatory birds of prey. What is more, its flesh is not consumed in these places. 30% of this species hides in the hollow of the cliffs while the rest finds its place on the cliffs and on the plateau. We take the time to admire the spectacle which is really worth it.

Until the 2000s, this colony was able to thrive and reach 40,000 nesting birds. Gannet couples will be on site between February and September, enough to amaze wildlife enthusiasts.

Percé Rock is this limestone giant that is also inhabited by some mammals. It preserves many fossil species. As for Bonaventure Island, which is located nearby, it protects more than 300 plant species. Vacationers come to enjoy its superb beaches, its meadow and its dwellings. boreal forests and the peat bogs are not left out. Mushrooms, lichens and mosses decorate the surface of the island offering a breathtaking view of the rock. The setting is simply captivating.

Percé Rock is one of the wonders that makes Quebec stand out. Visitors flock from everywhere just to see it. As for Bonaventure Island, it is known as New France. Fishermen frequent it in addition to Normans and Bretons who come to admire these majestic places.

The road leading to Percé Rock is punctuated by beautiful landscapes. You can stop to visit museums. Boaters can also enjoy a range of services that make their vacation unforgettable.

How can you immortalize this passage at Percé Rock without taking a few memorable shots? The fact remains that you have to find the right angle to do so.

• Photographing Percé Rock from Mont-Joli

Mont-Joli overlooks the sea and offers a superb view of both Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock. Visitors are ecstatic about the beauty of the light reflected at sunset, which gives the rock a more than dazzling hue. To get to this viewpoint, simply leave the village of Percé and walk for 10 minutes. Mont-Joli is also accessible from Anse Beach.

• Cruise to the rock

Percé To go on a cruise to Quebec's Percé Rock, it is best to choose the period between mid-May and the end of October. Different companies offer a cruise to help you get to Bonaventure. Note that the cruise only lasts 75 minutes. A guide will be happy to teach you more about the history of this fabulous natural park.

• Meet at the Percé geopark

If there is one place to admire Percé Rock, it is the Percé Geopark itself. This beautiful playground is part of UNESCO's heritage. It invites you to discover different activities from its 18 km of hiking. Better yet, the glass platform located at an altitude of 200 meters allows you to admire Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock.

To get there, you can use the shuttle or take one of the dedicated trails. This geopark is easy to access and is well marked. Walking the trails is the best option, as it allows you to enjoy breathtaking views.

• Take the Percé walk

Regarding Percé, it is one of the best villages in Quebec. Its more than enchanting setting will seduce you. You will also be amazed by its art galleries, its buildings as well as its pretty colorful cafes.

This beautiful walk takes you to see magnificent infrastructures such as a children's park or even of deck chairsYou can see Percé Rock by going to the observation tower.