Located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Rémire island is a renowned tourist destination for its picturesque surroundings and active natural life. Its flora and fauna are protected and managed by the Quebec government as a nature reserve. The island’s attractions include hiking trails, lakes, wildflowers, and a variety of waterfowl. The reserve is open to visitors from May 1 to October 31.
All Discussion Of Rémire Island
History
Rémire Island was first inhabited by the Algonquian-speaking Micmac people. The French explorer Sieur de Monts and his fellow explorer, Samuel de Champlain, explored the island in 1604.
In 1705, Rémire became part of a Jesuit mission led by Father La Fleche. In 1764, it was purchased by Jean-Baptiste Labelle for 80 pounds sterling from Louis XVIII of France. In 1837, Rémire was purchased by Gaspard-Joseph Chaussegros de Lévy and his wife, Louise-Élisabeth Chaussegros. The island became a summer home for the wealthy Parisian elite.
In 1870, Rémire was seized by the Quebec government as part of the effort to secede from Canada and become an independent republic known as le Québec libre. The island remained French until 1976, when it became part of the province of Quebec. In 2005, Rémire was designated a National Historic Site by the Canadian government.
Today, Rémire Island is open to visitors year-round and offers many activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching and cross-country skiing. The reserve also features lakes, ponds and streams for swimming and boat rentals are available at some areas on the island.
Geography
Rémire Island is located in the Intouchable River about halfway between Montreal and Nantes, France. It covers an area of 25 square kilometres and has a population of about 60 people.
The island is composed mostly of sand dunes with some small hills and spruce trees scattered throughout; it lacks any bodies of water larger than ponds. The highest point on Rémire is 48 metres above sea level.
Ecosystem
Rémire Island is an important nesting area for many waterfowl species, including white-tailed ducks, American woodcocks and Canada geese. The island also has a rich avian diversity featuring over 150 species of birds. The ecosystem on Rémire features rare plants and animals that are found nowhere else in Québec.
Population
The population of Rémire Island has remained relatively stable over the last few decades and is estimated to be around 60 people. Rémire was first settled by Native Americans who called it “Kitchissippi”, meaning “place where wild strawberries grow”.
The first European explorer to visit the island was Jean-Baptiste Bouchard in 1634. In 1714, Pierre du Cours d’Aulnay de La Per rière sailed up the Intouchable River and discovered Rémire. The first British settlers arrived in 1764, and the island became part of the British colony of Nova Scotia a few years later. In 1867, following Canada’s Confederation, Rémire Island became part of Québec.
Economy
The economy of Rémire Island is dominated by activities related to tourism. The main sources of income are from renting out camp sites and cottages, offering boat tours and selling souvenirs.
Climate
The climate on Rémire Island is moderated by the Gulf of St. Lawrence and features cold, dry winters and warm, wet summers.
Culture and Religion
The culture and religion on Rémire Island is predominantly Protestant. The island has a small Catholic population, as well as a few ministers who cater to the spiritual needs of visitors.
Languages
The predominant language on Rémire Island is English, but French and Native American languages are also spoken.
Education
There is no school on Rémire Island, but visitors can access a library and internet facilities.
Politics
The politics of Rémire Island are dominated by its close proximity to the larger island communities of Saint-Georges and La Malbaie.
Government Services
Rémire Island is serviced by a single police officer and a small number of health-care professionals.
Tourism
The main source of income on Rémire Island is from tourism. The island is home to a number of camp sites and cottages, as well as boat tours that offer views of the surrounding waterways.
Hotels and Resorts List
Some of the hotels and resorts on Rémire Island include La Malbaie Manor, The Cottage at Valley View, La Ferme Bed and Breakfast, Kapuskasing Campground Lodge and Stratford Country House.
Attractions
The main attractions on Rémire Island include viewpoints and natural parks. These include the Bras d’Or Lakeshore, Canadarm Park National Historic Site and Bear Valley Provincial Park.
Activities
Visitors to Rémire Island can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking and fishing.
Transport
Rémire Island is accessible by ferry from Saint-Georges, La Malbaie and Kapuskasing.
Cuisine
The cuisine on Rémire Island is similar to the food found in nearby communities. Typical dishes include broiled salmon, black and white pudding and pan-fried beef with mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Rémire Island is a small, uninhabited island in the St. Lawrence River just north of Quebec City, Quebec. It is located about 2 km upstream from the mouth of the Saint Lawrence River, at the entrance of a small inlet known as Île d’Orléans. The island is accessible only by boat and contains a sugar refinery, a pulp and paper mill, an incinerator, and a hydroelectric plant.
FAQs
1.How Long Has Rémire Island Been Inhabited?
Ans: The first residents on Rémire Island arrived in the early 1800s.
2.What Is The Primary Source Of Income On Rémire Island?
Ans: The main source of income on Rémire Island is from tourism. There are also a number of industrial facilities located on the island, including a sugar refinery, pulp and paper mill, incinerator and hydroelectric plant.
3.What Are The Most Popular Activities On Rémire Island?
Ans: The most popular activities on Rémire Island include hiking, kayaking and fishing.
4.What Are The Prices For Accommodations On Rémire Island?
Ans: There are a number of accommodation options available, including hotels, cottages and campgrounds. Prices vary depending on location and season.
5.Can I Bring My Pet Onto Rémire Island?
Ans: Yes, pets are allowed on Rémire Island with the exception of snakes.
6.What Is The Weather Like On Rémire Island?
Ans: The average temperature on Rémire Island is around 17 degrees Celsius. The island experiences a variety of weather conditions, including cold winters and hot summers.
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