Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial - a stone tower in the middle of a grassy field
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Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial

4.7
·621 reviews·Saint-Antoine-de-l'Isle-aux-Grues, Canada

A poignant National Historic Site on the St. Lawrence River, Grosse Île served as a quarantine station for Irish immigrants during the 1847 famine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial - a stone tower in the middle of a grassy field

Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant National Historic Site on the St. Lawrence River, Grosse Île served as a quarantine station for Irish immigrants during the 1847 famine.

4.7
(621 reviews)

"An amazing site and so important to learning about our country’s history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ferry in Advance

Check ferry schedules and book tickets early, especially for popular times.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking; good shoes are essential for exploring the island.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Irish Memorial

The Irish Memorial

Grosse Île

A poignant tribute to the thousands who perished here during the 1847 famine. A must-see for understanding the site's history.

Guided Island Tour

Guided Island Tour

Grosse Île

Knowledgeable guides bring the island's compelling history to life, detailing public health and immigration stories.

Ferry Journey

Ferry Journey

Berthier-sur-Mer to Grosse Île

Enjoy scenic views of the St. Lawrence River during the 35-minute ferry ride to this historic island.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Ferry Trip

Access to Grosse Île is primarily via a 35-minute passenger ferry from Berthier-sur-Mer. Check the schedule as departure times vary daily and by season. Arrive early, especially during peak times, as ferries can fill up. Consider booking lunch onboard to save time and hassle during your 5-6 hour visit.

Prepare for Your Visit

This National Historic Site requires a bit of planning. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as ferry crossings can be chilly. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea, though a small canteen and food truck are available. The island is extensive, so utilize the trolley bus to cover longer distances.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Advice on driving to Île-Aux Grues

Book Ferry in Advance

Check ferry schedules and book tickets early, especially for popular times. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking; good shoes are essential for exploring the island. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks

While some food is available, bringing your own is recommended for a 5-6 hour visit. Reddit

Consider Guided Tours

Highly recommended for an insightful and engaging experience of the site's history. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ferry in Advance

Check ferry schedules and book tickets early, especially for popular times. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking; good shoes are essential for exploring the island. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks

While some food is available, bringing your own is recommended for a 5-6 hour visit. Reddit

Consider Guided Tours

Highly recommended for an insightful and engaging experience of the site's history. Reddit

Dress in Layers

Ferry rides can be chilly, and island weather can change. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(621 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Grosse Île as an amazing and important National Historic Site, highlighting the knowledgeable and friendly staff who make the history come alive. The ferry ride is also noted as a pleasant part of the experience. While the site is deeply moving, some find the cost of onboard food a bit high.

"Great visit. Francesca was an amazing tour guide. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit today. So insightful and personable. An amazing site and so important to learning about our country’s history. 5000 dead in the span of a summer in 1847!"

Todd Taylor

"An absolute must go !!
The views
The staff / the crew were absolutely amazing...our guide was very knowledgeable and very kind
The history of this beautiful island ...
bring your own lunch
Fresh coffee and muffins sold on your boat tour for your convenience"

Gail McArthur

"This is an amazing National Historic Site. Highly recommend the guided tour, which is a great introduction to the site. The Parks Canada staff are very knowledgeable and friendly, and add to the enjoyment of the site. A "must see"!"

Bryan Smith

What People Like

Insightful guided tours
Knowledgeable and kind staff
Moving historical significance

What People Dislike

Pricey onboard food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary way to reach Grosse Île is by a 35-minute passenger ferry departing from Berthier-sur-Mer. The ferry schedule varies based on tides and days of operation, so it's crucial to check in advance. Parking is available at the ferry terminal. Reddit

Yes, the ferry can fill up, especially during peak season and popular departure times. It's advisable to arrive early to secure your spot. Reddit

Ferry departure times vary daily and seasonally. Typically, there are 2-3 departure times per day. Always consult the official schedule for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

While the ferry is the most common method, it is possible to fly to Grosse Île on a small plane, though this is less common for most visitors. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at the ferry terminal in Berthier-sur-Mer. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the National Historic Site itself is typically included with your ferry ticket. It's best to check the Parks Canada website for current pricing for the ferry and any associated site fees. Reddit

Booking ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months or on weekends, to guarantee your spot. Reddit

Grosse Île is a National Historic Site and is generally accessible during its operating season, which typically runs from late May to early October. Specific hours for the site and ferry services should be confirmed on the Parks Canada website. Reddit

Guided tours are highly recommended and are a significant part of the Grosse Île experience. While not always mandatory, they are often included or available for an additional fee and are well worth it for understanding the site's history. Reddit

A typical visit to Grosse Île lasts about 5-6 hours, including the ferry travel time. This allows ample time to explore the site and participate in guided activities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the Irish Memorial, take guided tours that detail the island's history as a quarantine station, learn about public health, and enjoy the natural beauty of the St. Lawrence River. Reddit

There is a trolley bus service on the island that can help transport visitors to farther reaches, which can assist with mobility challenges. However, some areas may still require walking. Reddit

Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and potentially a backpack with snacks and drinks, as options on the island can be limited. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available on the island, and also at the ferry terminal. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted at Grosse Île, allowing you to capture the historical sites and scenic views. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a small canteen on the island, and historically, food selections were available. However, due to circumstances like COVID-19, options might be limited to bottled water. It's best to check current offerings. Reddit

Lunch can often be purchased as an add-on when booking your ferry ticket. This can save time and hassle during your visit. Reddit

Reviews suggest the quality of purchased lunches is generally okay, and they often come with an insulated bag. However, some find it a bit pricey in retrospect. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own lunch, snacks, and drinks is a popular and recommended option for visitors to ensure they have food and to save money. Reddit

Yes, there are picnic tables available, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the solemnity of the Irish Memorial, the historic buildings, the scenic St. Lawrence River views, and the ferry crossing. Reddit

Regulations regarding drone usage at National Historic Sites can be strict. It's best to check with Parks Canada directly or consult their guidelines before flying a drone. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the island's landscapes, while late afternoon offers softer light and potentially dramatic skies over the river. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the historical significance of the site and any specific signage. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto can be good for distant river scenes. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Grosse Île offers a unique educational opportunity for families. While the history is somber, the guided tours are often engaging and can be adapted to be understandable for older children. The ferry ride itself can be an adventure for kids, and the open spaces on the island allow for some freedom to explore.

Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options can be limited. Consider the length of the visit (5-6 hours) and ensure children are comfortable with walking or utilize the trolley bus. Discuss the historical context in an age-appropriate manner beforehand to prepare them for the site's significance.

🚶 Budget Travelers

To make Grosse Île more budget-friendly, focus on bringing your own lunch and snacks. While purchasing lunch onboard or on the island is an option, it can add up. The ferry ticket is the main cost, so factor that into your planning. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially experience fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. The historical insights gained from the guided tours are invaluable and represent a significant part of the experience, often included in the overall cost.

🤔 History Buffs

For those passionate about history, Grosse Île is an essential visit. The site offers a profound look into Canada's immigration history, public health, and the impact of the Irish Famine. The preserved buildings and the Irish Memorial provide tangible connections to the past. Reddit

Highly recommended: Opt for the guided tours. The Parks Canada staff are exceptionally knowledgeable and provide detailed narratives that enrich the understanding of the events that transpired here. Allow ample time to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on the stories shared.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Grosse Île

Grosse Île served as Canada's primary quarantine station for Irish and other European immigrants during the Great Famine of 1847. Over 4,000 people died on the island that summer, primarily from typhus, dysentery, and cholera. The site stands as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of disease and mass migration.

Visitors can explore the preserved buildings, including the fever sheds and the hospital, which offer a stark glimpse into the conditions faced by immigrants. The Irish Memorial is a particularly moving tribute to those who perished, making it a central point of reflection for many. The guided tours are essential for understanding the broader social and historical context of this critical period in Canadian history. Reddit

Navigating the Island and Its Features

The island itself is quite spread out, and to make the most of your 5-6 hour visit, utilizing the trolley bus is highly recommended. This service helps visitors reach the farther sections of the island without excessive walking. The guided tours are structured to follow a schedule, ensuring you see the key historical points of interest.

Key areas to focus on include the Immigration Sheds, the Hospital Complex, and the Irish Memorial. The Parks Canada staff are noted for their knowledge and friendliness, significantly enhancing the visitor experience. They provide context and stories that bring the history to life, making the time fly by. Reddit

The Ferry Experience

The journey to Grosse Île begins with a scenic 35-minute ferry ride from Berthier-sur-Mer. This crossing offers beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and is an integral part of the overall experience. It's important to note that ferry times are influenced by tides, so checking the schedule in advance is crucial. Reddit

While the ferry is generally comfortable, it can be a bit chilly on deck, especially during the shoulder seasons. Visitors are advised to dress in layers and consider bringing a jacket. The ferry itself is well-organized, with staff guiding passengers. Some visitors opt to purchase lunch onboard to maximize their time on the island, though bringing your own provisions is also a common and practical choice. Reddit

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