Saint-Pierre Introductory Drive

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an enlightening driving tour of Saint-Pierre, the capital of the islands Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, which comprise the last remaining French territory in North America. The first permanent French fishing settlement was established here in 1604 and the importance of fishing is still evident around the harbor. As you drive along streets named for French notables such as Jacques Cartier and Louis Pasteur, you will see a high wall where residents play the Basque game pelote and the modest Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. Saint-Pierre also played a key role during Prohibition in America when bootleggers used it as a base of operations. Reminders of this raucous period include the Cutty Sark cottage, which was built entirely of Scotch whisky cases, and Al Capone’s straw hat, which is on display in the museum in the Hotel Robert, where he once stayed. Just outside of Saint-Pierre, you will find Savoyard Lake, which is depicted on a local postage stamp.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Delight in Saint-Pierre’s ambiance, which has the look and feel of a rural French village.
• Notice the French influence in the architecture, street names and even outdoor games.
• See the cathedral’s stained-glass windows that French President Charles de Gaulle donated.
• Discover how American bootleggers operated in Saint-Pierre during Prohibition.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.