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Island · Saint Pierre, Saint Pierre
Grand Colombier
Islet of about 50 ha and 150 m high, 500 m north of Saint-Pierre, where seabirds nest such as puffins, razorbills, murres and fork-tailed storm petrels. It is visible by boat or from Anse à Henry.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Grand Colombier
Grand Colombier is a treeless islet with steep slopes rising about 150 m above the sea just 500 m from Saint-Pierre’s northern tip. On the top the vegetation is low; on the slopes grass and ferns cover the burrows and ledges where birds nest.
It is the archipelago’s main seabird breeding site and one of the most important in the region. A large colony of fork-tailed storm petrels nests there, and Grand Colombier is the only place in France where this species breeds. It is also the only spot in the archipelago where puffins nest; there are also murres, razorbills, kittiwakes and cormorants. The presence of birds varies through the year and is greatest in spring and summer.
The islet does not receive landings. It can be seen from the sea on boat trips that depart Saint-Pierre harbor in season, and from the top of the Anse à Henry trail on the other side of the narrow passage. When chicks leave the nests, authorities ask that boats pass slowly around the islet.
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
A boat trip of one to two hours, or the view from the Anse à Henry trail.
Best time
From spring through late summer, when seabirds are usually around the islet. In rough seas or dense fog, boat trips may be cancelled.
How to get there
By boat on excursions that depart Saint-Pierre harbor in season. On land via the Anse à Henry trail, which ends facing the islet.
Tip
Bring binoculars. Ask boat operators to respect the colonies’ distance, especially in July when chicks head to the water.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grand Colombier
Can you land on Grand Colombier?
Not as a tourist visit. The islet is a seabird breeding site and is observed from the boat or from the Anse à Henry trail.
When can you see puffins on Grand Colombier?
In spring and summer, when the birds usually come to the islet to nest. Presence varies from year to year.
How do you take a boat trip to Grand Colombier?
Trips depart from Saint-Pierre harbor in season and depend on sea and fog conditions. Check with the tourist office about operators and departure days.