Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Quick Facts

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Capital

Saint-Pierre

Population

7,000

Government

NA (self-governing territorial collectivity of France)

Religions

Christianity (Catholic)

Languages

French

Calling Code

+508

Nationality

Local name

Saint-Pierre et Miquelon

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Introduction

St Pierre and Miquelon are the last vestiges of France's North American empire. Situated just south of the Canadian province of Newfoundland, the islands are cold but the towns are quaint and relaxed. Originally settled by French cod fishers in the 17th century, the territories passed temporarily from French to British control between 1713 and 1763. Cod fishing, after this time, was the central industry of the islands.

For travellers, the appeal is in low-key attractions such as museums, rustique old architecture and the islands' history. The islands are also popular amongst birdwatchers, and hikers find the nature trails of particular interest.

Communes

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is made up of two communes.

• Miquelon-Langlade
• Saint-Pierre

Towns

• Saint-Pierre, the capital
• Miquelon

Getting there

Plane

The only airline flying to and from Saint Pierre and Miquelon is Air Saint Pierre. Its base is at Saint Pierre Airport (FSP) and there are international flights to several Canadian cities like Halifax, St. John's and Montreal.

Boat

SPM Express operates ferries between Fortune in Newfoundland and Labrador and the islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.