Îles de la Madeleine, Québec, Canada

“Islands brushed by waves” is the wonderfully poetic name the Micmac Indians gave this small archipelago in the center of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. But it fails to capture the striking palette of the seascapes: white sandy beaches, pale dunes, ochre-red sea cliffs and deep blue sea. Most Madelinots live on the six largest islands linked by Route 199, which stretches 53 miles over rolling green hills dotted with cheerfully painted houses. At the southernmost end, historic La Grave is a hub of cafes, restaurants, shops, galleries, small museums and an aquarium. The islands’ culture is proudly Acadian, found in the islanders’ distinctive lilt, their music, maritime and artisan traditions, and cuisine. Try local cheese, smoked fish, craft beer, and flavorful seafood like the celebrated local lobster.