Grande-Digue: A Hidden Gem in New Brunswick

Grande-Digue is a small, picturesque community located in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada. With a population of just over 1,000 people, it is a quiet and peaceful place to visit, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Despite its small size, Grande-Digue has plenty to offer visitors, from beautiful natural attractions to unique cultural experiences.

Attractions

La Dune de Bouctouche

One of the most popular attractions in Grande-Digue is La Dune de Bouctouche, a stunning sand dune that stretches for over 12 kilometers along the coast. Visitors can hike along the dune and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The dune is also home to a variety of wildlife, including piping plovers and terns.

Irving Eco-Centre

The Irving Eco-Centre is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. This 600-acre nature reserve is home to a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and salt marshes. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by bike, and there are plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Cocagne Island

Cocagne Island is a small island located just off the coast of Grande-Digue. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island and explore its beautiful beaches and hiking trails. The island is also home to a lighthouse and a variety of wildlife, including seals and seabirds.

Le Pays de la Sagouine

Le Pays de la Sagouine is a unique cultural attraction that celebrates the Acadian way of life. Visitors can explore a recreated Acadian village, complete with traditional buildings, live music, and performances. The attraction also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.

History

Grande-Digue was first settled in the early 1800s by Acadian and Irish immigrants. The community was officially established in 1846, and was named after the nearby Grande-Digue River. In 1966, Grande-Digue was incorporated as a village.

The community was founded by Jean-Baptiste Gagnon, a prominent Acadian businessman and politician. Gagnon was instrumental in the development of the community, and helped to establish many of its early industries, including fishing and shipbuilding.

Conclusion

Grande-Digue may be a small community, but it has plenty to offer visitors. From its stunning natural attractions to its unique cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the great outdoors, or learn about Acadian culture, Grande-Digue is the perfect destination.

Sources

Tourism New Brunswick. (n.d.). Grande-Digue. https://tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/G/Grande-Digue
Irving Eco-Centre. (n.d.). https://www.irvingecocentre.ca/
La Dune de Bouctouche. (n.d.). https://www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/L/La-Dune-de-Bouctouche
Cocagne Island. (n.d.). https://www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/C/Cocagne-Island
Le Pays de la Sagouine. (n.d.). https://www.sagouine.com/
Village of Grande-Digue. (n.d.). https://www.grandedigue.ca/