Nouvelle, a municipality in eastern Quebec, Canada, is a hidden gem on the south shore of the Gaspé Peninsula. Nestled at the mouth of the Nouvelle River, where the Restigouche River widens into Chaleur Bay, Nouvelle is a haven for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
The municipality of Nouvelle includes the communities of Allard, Brébeuf (Dugal), Drapeau, Miguasha, Miguasha-Ouest, Nouvelle-Ouest, and Provancher. The graphic seal of Nouvelle, a world globe overlaid by Eusthenopteron foordi, pays homage to the fossil discovery that brought worldwide fame to the Miguasha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the municipality. The seal's red and gray colours represent the colors of the rocks present on the fossil site.
Nouvelle's history dates back to the 18th century when it was first settled by Acadians fleeing the deportation of 1755, fish merchants from Jersey, Channel Islands, and some Irish. The name Nouvelle, French for "new," was used to denote the "new land" being made available west of the town now known as Carleton-sur-Mer.
In 1842, the geographic township of Nouvelle was proclaimed, and in 1845, it was incorporated as the Municipality of Shoolbred, named after John Shoolbred, the first owner of the seignory granted there. The municipality underwent several name changes before finally being renamed to the Municipality of Nouvelle in 1953.
Nouvelle's economy thrives on fishing and tourism. The Rivière-Nouvelle ZEC is world-renowned for its sea trout fly fishing and Atlantic salmon. The Miguasha National Park houses a world-class museum of natural history and offers a stunning beach with majestic red cliffs of the Bonaventure Formation. The Miguasha port facility offers yachting services and a ferry service from July to September.
Nouvelle also hosts the 5th edition of the Jeux des 50 ans et plus de la Gaspésie et des Îles-de-la-Madeleine, a popular event that takes place in June.
Nouvelle offers a plethora of recreational activities for its residents and visitors. The Centre sportif Louis-Sleigher, named in honour of the first native of Nouvelle to play for the NHL, is a popular skating arena. The region is also known for sport fishing and hunting, with opportunities to hunt ruffed grouse or partridge, moose, deer, and black bear.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, Nouvelle offers tennis courts, a soccer field, nature trails, and snowmobile and ATV trails. Harness racing is another popular activity in the region.
Discover the rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant community life of Nouvelle, Quebec. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a sports fan, Nouvelle has something for everyone.
