ÎLE-AUX-COUDRES was settled in 1728. Jacques Cartier gave it its name in 1535, after finding numerous hazel trees in this region. The first holy mass ever celebrated in Canada took place on this island.

The place were Jacques Cartier landed is located near the maritime terminal of SAINT-BERNARD, in a small bay that is still called "Le Mouillage des Français". To protect themselves against poor navigation conditions, this anchoring site served for a long time as a refuge to the French ships that navigated on the river.

Among the installations and tourist attractions of the island are:

• Auberge La Coudrière
• Auberge Les Églantiers
• Hotel-Motel la Roche Pleureuse
• Hotel-Motel les Voitures d'Eau inc.
• Motel l'Islet
• Moulins de l'Île-aux-Coudres
• Musée de l'Isle-aux-Coudres
• Musée Les Voitures d'Eau
• Maison Leclerc