Percé (Gaspé), Québec, Canada

Percé is a small town near the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula in Québec, located within the traditional lands of the Mi'kmaq. These native people called the area Siscog, or “steep rocks,” an apt description of the dramatic landscape of rugged coastal cliffs and soaring mountains. One of the world's largest natural arches, striking Percé Rock looms just off the coast. On nearby Bonaventure Island, hiking trails wind through meadows and evergreen forests populated by large colonies of gannets, puffins, cormorants and murres. Back in town, step back in time as you shop the restored general store stocked with authentic antique merchandise. The local microbreweries are also popular, as are the many restaurants with a view of the sea, where those who linger until sunset are rewarded with a natural light show glowing over Percé Rock.