Winter Hiking & Hidden Joys in Cap-aux-Meules
A winter morning in Cap-aux-Meules is pure magic—crisp air, snow-dusted cliffs, and the thrill of adventure underfoot. With crampons secured and poles in hand, we set off toward the iconic lighthouse, perched high above the icy Gulf of St. Lawrence. The sea stretched endlessly before us, shimmering in the cold light, while red cliffs peeked through their snowy veil—a scene straight out of a winter postcard. But the b
est moments came after the climb. 
Descending from the trail, we stumbled upon a local celebration, a burst of joy in the middle of Lent. Islanders, dressed in colorful costumes, danced, laughed, and embraced the warmth of tradition—a reminder that even in the depths of winter, the Îles de la Madeleine spirit burns bright. Would you brave the icy trails for a view like this? 
#CapAuxMeules #WinterHiking #IlesDeLaMadeleine #SnowyAdventures #TravelWithLushLife 
Thanks for the photos, Cindy Miller Hopkins ⸻
A Taste of Luxury at Sea 
Though I disembarked in St. Pierre, I wanted to share a few last glimpses of the extraordinary journey aboard Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot. (And for my friends and family in Corner Brook, I hope you caught the Charcot sailing into the Bay of Islands!)
One of the most unforgettable experiences? Watching our executive chef work his magic at Alain Ducasse’s onboard restaurant. Think: seared scallops in butter, nestled with leeks and onions, draped in a silky beurre blanc, and crowned with caviar. A dish so indulgent, saying no to seconds was simply not an option.
Delicious? Absolutely. Decadent? Without a doubt. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.
A few more snapshots from my engine room tour and a foggy visit to St. Pierre & Miquelon, where the mist only added to the charm. Delays, missed trains, but finally back to Ottawa—safe and sound. #GastronomyAtSea
#LuxuryCruising #Ponant #LeCommandantCharcot #FineDining #CaviarAndScallops @Ponant @Virtuoso Travel @Lush Life Travel @sheila_lushlife
Let me know if you’d like to go!
#AskSheila [email protected]