Activity

Nature and photo guide in Gaspé

Night photography in Gaspésie: Capturing the northern lights and stars at Pointe de la Gaspésie

If you’re passionate about night photography, the Pointe de la Gaspésie is an exceptional playground. Between its starry skies of rare purity, its spectacular coastal landscapes and, occasionally, the magical appearance of the northern lights, this region is a veritable paradise for astrophotography enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, here’s everything you need to know to capture the nocturnal beauty of the Gaspé Peninsula.

Why is Gaspésie ideal for night photography?
Pointe de la Gaspésie boasts a major advantage for night-time photographers: the absence of light pollution. Far from the big cities, its vast natural spaces offer exceptionally clear skies, where the Milky Way reveals itself with a rare intensity. What’s more, its proximity to northern Quebec means that the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen, especially in autumn and winter.

The best places to photograph starry skies and the Northern Lights
Here are some of the best places to set up your tripod and capture the magic of the Gaspé night:

1. Forillon National Park
With its steep cliffs and rugged coastline, Parc Forillon is a prime location for night photography. Settle near Cap-Bon-Ami for a breathtaking spectacle: the starry sky reflects on the sea, and the aurora borealis sometimes paints the horizon in shades of green and violet.

2. Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse, the tallest in Canada, provides the perfect backdrop for spectacular shots. At night, its imposing silhouette rises beneath the Milky Way, creating a striking contrast between human ingenuity and the immensity of the cosmos.

3. Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island
Percé is a must-see, even at night! From the water’s edge, you can capture the famous Percé Rock under a starry sky, or use a long exposure to reveal the light of shooting stars during meteor showers.

4. The beaches of Gaspé
The beaches of Gaspé Bay offer a peaceful, open setting, ideal for photographing the night sky with a minimum of light pollution. Haldimand beach, for example, is perfect for shots where the Milky Way is gently reflected on the sand and water.

When to watch the northern lights in Gaspésie?
The aurora borealis are unpredictable, but are most frequent in autumn and winter, when the sky is clear and solar activity is intense. The best chances of seeing them are between September and March, away from artificial lights. To maximize your chances, consult auroral activity forecasts via applications such as “Aurora Forecast” or “SpaceWeatherLive”.

Exclusive experience: a photo outing with a private guide

At the auberge, we offer you the option of adding a private guide to your stay, so you can benefit from his expertise and discover the best spots for your night-time photos. This tailor-made service guarantees you exceptional shots, adapted to your desires and level. What’s more, we can include a box lunch, ideal for a night photo excursion or a long day of exploration.

👉 Book your experience with a private guide here

An immersive experience at the inn
After a night of exploring under the stars, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort of our Gaspé inn. Enjoy a well-deserved rest in our charming country-style rooms, and start the day on the right foot with an included breakfast. If you’d like to share your best shots with other enthusiasts, our terraces and English garden are the perfect places to chat over coffee or an aperitif.

Whether you’re a night-time landscape enthusiast or an aurora borealis hunter, La Pointe de la Gaspésie promises magical nights under the stars.

So, are you ready to capture the beauty of the Gaspesian sky?