There’s a feeling in the air. A sense of solitude that brings you back to a simpler time. Francois is friendly people. Pristine nature. Challenging hikes. Leisurely walks. It was everything I didn’t know I needed.

Everyone should make the trip to Francois. Our family of 4 along with our young Bernese Mountain Dog went back in August 2022. It was like going back in time. We stayed for 2 nights. This picture would make anyone want to go.

I first visited Francois with my ACW church group but returned in 2022 with my friends on a staycation. We hiked the many trails including Charlie’s Head, Cook’s Hole Cave and The Friar. A side trip to MacCallum and Hermitage was a highlight which rejuvenated body and soul.

Visiting Francois is like stepping back in time. Walking along the concrete pathways and many wooden boardwalks gives one an excellent tour of the entire community. The breathtaking views of Francois and the harbour at the top of the Friar, will forever be etched in my brain. The Staycation of a lifetime.

My husband, myself and another couple traveled to Francois in July 2021, staying for 2 nights.  No vehicles except for quads, just wooden & concrete boardwalks.  A gorgeous isolated community on the Southwest Coast.  It was so peaceful and quiet.  While there we did some hiking to the waterfall, the cave, Charlie's Lookout and the Friar.  Spectacular views at every turn.  Francois is a definite must for hiking or just to relax and enjoy the quiet.

I travelled to Francois a couple of years ago with a few friends. We stayed 2 nights at a lovely rental property. We hiked the friar trail and saw the beautiful view of Francois from high above the town. A very nice man named George took us in his boat to neighbouring Chaleur bay, a location with a beautiful beach, cabins and a site of a salmon farm operation. The day was just lovely. George’s wife made cookies for us and George let me drive the boat back. The town residents were very nice and we had a beautiful stay. I would like to go back one day.

François is more than just a beautiful place — it’s an experience. The scenery, the trails, the ocean, and especially the people make it unforgettable. If you ever get the chance to visit, take it. The journey may be long, but the memories you make there will last a lifetime.

We visited Burgeo a few years ago hoping to get to Francois. By chance, we met the ferry captain and learned our only opportunity to go was leaving in half an hour — so we took it.

Midway through the trip, we realized we hadn’t booked accommodations or brought supplies, but the captain kindly helped arrange both before we arrived.

We spent the evening exploring this unique and beautiful community and enjoyed every moment of our stay.