Mavillette






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Welcome to Mavillette
There are a few theories about how this village came to be named Mavillette.

Some say that it was the combination of two French terms meaning "my" (MA) and "small city" (VILLETTE).

Another story tells the tale of a General Mavillette who died at sea and was buried on the beach of this coastal village that was then, of course, named after him.

In 1921 Mavillette became part of the St. Alphonse Parish whose church is one of the most popular in Clare because of its stunning hand painted murals and grotto carved from wood and made to resemble the miraculous site in Massabielle where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Bernadette.

Water taken from the European site was added to the grotto and continues to flow. Guided tours of this church are available in July and August.

The village of Mavillette offers a 2 km long stretch of sand that beckons sunbathers and swimmers to its shore. The 101 hectare (250 acre) Mavillette Beach Provincial Park is a hidden gem for the eco-tourist.

Boardwalks crossing grass-covered dunes provides access to the beach where you can view the Cape St. Mary's fishing wharf and lighthouse.

This spot is a beachcomber's paradise with the lapping waves bringing in a wealth of beautiful seashells with every tide, and picnic tables on the banks offer spectacular views and lovely ambience for any beachside feast.

A restaurant serving traditional Acadian dishes and a motel with cottages are within walking distance.

The park provides excellent opportunities for bird watching and affords a lovely walking atmosphere.

A 132 ha (325 ac) saltwater marsh behind the beach is very popular with birdwatchers since many different species can be spotted.

In the neighboring town, Cape Saint Mary's lighthouse stands proudly beside dramatic coastal cliffs and shines brightly to beckon ships home after one of Nova Scotia's most stunning sunsets.

Smugglers Cove Provincial Park is approximately a 10 minute drive North.

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