Domaine du Vieux Couvent, Magdalen Islands, Canada

Set on the windswept shores of the Magdalen Islands, Domaine du Vieux Couvent occupies a restored former convent shaped by sea air and time. 

With just 10 rooms, the experience is intimate and unhurried, unfolding within thick walls that hold both silence and history. 

The setting feels remote and contemplative, where island light and open horizons define the mood.

What Makes It Special

• A historic convent carefully restored into a boutique island retreat
• An exceptionally small scale that preserves privacy and calm
• A location defined by sea, wind, and expansive island skies
• Interiors that respect the building’s past without feeling preserved
• A sense of distance that feels intentional rather than isolating

A Day at Domaine du Vieux Couvent

Morning

Light arrives early, filtered through coastal air and wide skies. Breakfast unfolds quietly, with the sense that the island is still waking, shaped by wind rather than clocks.

Afternoon

The island draws you outward. Walks along open land, time near the water, or long pauses indoors where the building’s history feels present but never heavy.

Evening

As the light softens, the surroundings grow still. Dinner feels simple and grounded, framed by the awareness that there is little beyond the sea and sky.

Night

Darkness settles fully. With minimal artificial light, the island becomes silent and expansive. Sleep arrives deep, shaped by isolation and the steady presence of the ocean nearby.

Insider Tips for Domaine du Vieux Couvent, Magdalen Islands

• Even if you’re not staying here, many local travelers book just for the dinner experience and views.
• There’s usually a 3-night minimum in peak season, so plan your trip accordingly.
• Having a car or bike lets you explore the archipelago’s multiple beaches, dunes, and hidden coves at your own pace.
• Consider earlier fall dates if you want more services open; winters on the islands are tranquil but many restaurants/hotels are off-season.
• The islands are predominantly French-speaking with a welcoming blend of Acadian and Québécois culture, and many locals speak English as well 

Why We Love It (Curated Highlights)

At Hotelagio we hand-pick only stays that feel truly one-of-a-kind. This property made our list because of these rare details:

• A historic structure given new life without losing its soul
• A scale so small it encourages true retreat
• An island setting that defines every hour of the stay
• A rhythm shaped by weather and light rather than routine
• Remarkable value for such a remote and character-rich experience

For Whom

For couples: A quiet, reflective escape built around shared stillness and landscape.
For slow-travel enthusiasts: Ideal for guests comfortable with silence, distance, and simplicity.
For history-minded travelers: A rare chance to stay inside a meaningful building, not beside one.

Quick Facts (Luxury Snapshot)

Location: Magdalen Islands, Québec, Canada
Rooms: 10 rooms
Rates: From USD 142
Best for: Island escapes, slow travel, intimate boutique stays
Style: Historic boutique hotel in a former convent