Although Perce now has a mainly tourist vocation, it used to be an important fishing centre. Even before the arrival of Europeans, it was one of the Micmacs' favorite fishing spots. In the 17th century, Perce was the most important fishing centre on the Gaspe Peninsula. Later, a native of Jersey Island, Charles Robin built important infrastructures for the fishing industry. Today we can still find a few buildings dating back to that time.
Perce Rock is one of the most important natural tourist attractions in Quebec. All who have seen it have been impressed by its size, its colour and its beauty. Because of the many belvederes (Mt. Joli, Mt. Sainte-Anne and Pic de l'Aurore, just to name a few) situated here and there, the Rock can be viewed from many angles. It can also be observed by boat and one can walk to it (even up to the hole) at low tide.
Bonaventure Island (4.16 km²) faces the town of Perce. It has one of the most important gannet colonies in the world and many other species of birds such as puffins, cormorants and murres. The island also has many interesting and diversified trails alongside cliffs, crevasses and beaches.
Inland from Perce lies a wealth of attractions, maybe not as well-known but nonetheless spectacular. For example, on Mt. Blanc you have a very deep crevasse and many belvederes overlooking Cannes-de-Roches. Mt. Sainte-Anne with its 375 m offers a sensational view of the sea. If the sky is clear, you can get a glimpse of Miscou Island in New Brunswick. Take the winding and mountainous Chemin des Failles and take in more spectacular scenery. Back in town, behind the church, you will find the grotto and its fountain.
Perce
