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Lagoon · Miquelon, Miquelon-Langlade
Grand Barachois Lagoon
Saltwater lagoon of about 9 km² south of Miquelon village, closed off by the Langlade isthmus sandbar. Gray seals and harbor seals often rest on the sandbanks; there is an observatory, a trail and guided tours.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Grand Barachois Lagoon
The Grand Barachois is the archipelago’s largest lagoon, about 9 km² of shallow salt water north of the isthmus, with a sandbar and dunes of about 12 km that link Miquelon to Langlade. A narrow channel, the goulet, exchanges water with the sea at each tide, and at low tide sandbanks and beds of zostera, a marine plant, appear.
The sandbanks are resting sites for gray seals and harbor seals, which live in the lagoon year-round; harbor seals usually give birth from late May to early June. Ducks, Canada geese and migratory shorebirds stop to feed on the shores. An observatory on the lagoon’s edge helps you see the animals without getting close, and horses are kept free on the isthmus pastures for much of the year.
The official Grand Barachois–Isthme trail is about 9 km, easy and takes about 2h30: it starts at a place called Travania on Langlade Road, follows the lagoon’s southern shore past the observatory and returns through the isthmus farms. In summer, the Maison de la Nature et de l'Environnement runs a guided 3h30 walk across the dunes and along the lagoon, and there are guided boat trips to observe the seals up close without landing on the sandbanks.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours at the observatory and shore; about 2h30 on the official trail; about 3h30 for the guided walk.
Best time
At low tide, when the sandbanks appear and seals usually lie on them. From June to September guided walks and boat trips operate. On very windy days, observation is difficult.
How to get there
By the road that leaves Miquelon village heading south toward Langlade, by car or bicycle. The trail starts at a place called Travania on that road.
Tip
Bring binoculars and stay at the observatory or on the shore: do not go onto the sandbanks or approach the seals, especially during pup season. Guided trips are booked at the Maison de la Nature in the village.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grand Barachois Lagoon
When can you see seals at the Grand Barachois?
Seals live in the lagoon year-round and usually appear on the sandbanks at low tide. Harbor seals give birth between late May and early June.
Are there guided tours at the Grand Barachois?
In summer, the Maison de la Nature et de l'Environnement runs a guided walk of about 3h30 across the dunes and lagoon, and there are guided boat trips to see the seals. Check and book in the village.
How long is the Langlade isthmus?
The sand stretch that links Miquelon to Langlade is about 12 km. The Grand Barachois lagoon lies to its north.
What is the Grand Barachois trail like?
Easy, about 9 km and 2h30 walking. It starts at a place called Travania on the Langlade road, passes the observatory and returns via the isthmus.