For 200 years, the wreck of the “Machault” a 26-gun military sailing vessel charged with protecting merchant vessels from the British has remained under water. At the battle of Restigouche National Historic Site, it is now possible to admire the ship’s remains and to relive the last Naval battle between France and Great Britain for possession of North American territory. It is an extraordinary journey that will take you all the way back to 1760!

The Battle of Restigouche Historic Site offers guided tours where you’ll be taken on a tour accompanied by a character in period costume (reservation required for this activity). During the tour you’ll get to know the epic tale of the final battle at sea between France and Great Britain for possession of France’s North American territories.

Here you will also be able to view and discover a birch bark canoe made by Mi’gmaq artisans and learn more about the canoe’s function, history and significance within Indigenous history (this is in collaboration with the community of Listuguj).

At the Battle of Restigouche Historic Site grounds you can also embark on the iNaturalist experience. iNaturalist is like having a huge guide for identifying plant and animal species in your pocket, but in mobile format. All you have to do is download the free application on your smart phone. Also take part in the iNaturalist – Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site Project by uploading your observations to the platform. By contributing to improving biodiversity knowledge, you will ensure that you keep a memory of your visit while providing valuable information that will be useful to future visitors and last many years.

Visiting with young children? The site also provides xplorers booklets for children (aged 6 – 11). The xplorers booklet contains a range of activities that will take you around to different points in the Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site. All young explorers who have completed at least three of the booklet’s proposed activities before the end of their visit will receive a surprise.

Parks Canada has also placed over 200 red Adirondack chairs in peaceful and scenic locations throughout many of the country’s most unique and treasured places, including one set at the Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site. Grab a friend, go for a walk then relax and snap a selfie on one of the red chairs. Each location immerses you in its landscape and history.

For more information about the Battle of Restigouche Historic Site or for inquiries concerning visiting fees call 1-888-773-8888, or 418-788-5676 (administration), email information@pc.gc.ca or visit the Parks Canada Facebook page.

Battle of Restigouche Historic Site
40 Perron Ouest Boulevard
Pointe-à-la-Croix