If you like crime dramas set in remote, cinematic places, Saint-Pierre (2025) is definitely one to watch. It’s a CBC series with mystery, moral grey zones, and jaw-dropping scenery.
The show is set in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, a French territory off Newfoundland, and also filmed in parts of Canada.
Here’s everything about where it was filmed, why those places were chosen, and what you’ll see if you ever go there.
🎯 What’s Saint-Pierre About?
After exposing corruption, Inspector Donny “Fitz” Fitzpatrick is exiled to the islands of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon.
He partners with Deputy Chief Geneviève “Arch” Archambault, a Parisian with secrets. Together they solve crimes in a place that looks peaceful but hides danger.
The contrast between beauty and crime is a big part of what makes the show feel real.
📍 Where Was Saint-Pierre Filmed?
| Location | What Scenes / Role | Why It Was Chosen / What Makes It Special |
|---|---|---|
| Saint-Pierre et Miquelon (France) | The core island scenes, atmosphere, the coastline, streets, local community feel | Because the real geography gives authenticity. Those rugged coastlines, isolated vibe, French architecture + oceanside charm. |
| St. John’s, Newfoundland (Canada) | Urban / shore / harbor scenes & some filming parts beyond the island to facilitate logistics | Logistically easier, more infrastructure, housing, transport; adds flexibility for production. |
🗓️ When Did Filming Take Place?
- Production for Season 1 began in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, France and St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada around May 2024.
- Season 2 also films in two blocks: Block One from June–July 2025, Block Two from September–November 2025, in both Saint-Pierre and St. John’s.
✅ Why These Locations Work
- Authenticity & Setting: The real Saint-Pierre et Miquelon islands have a mix of French and North American culture, rugged weather, remote docks, which work perfectly for a crime drama about isolation, secrets, and identity.
- Visual Contrast: Sea / coast / harbour vs. tight community streets vs. distant wilderness. The landscape itself becomes a character.
- Practical Production Reasons: Doing part of the filming in St. John’s gives access to infrastructure — hotels, crew, transport — which is harder on smaller islands.
🌍 What You’ll Get If You Visit These Places
If you ever travel to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon or St. John’s, here are things you could see & experience that connect to what the show shows:
- Saint-Pierre town: the seafront, fishing docks, French architecture, narrow streets with ocean views.
- Coastlines & Harbors: vivid sunsets, cliffs, lighthouses.
- Local Culture: small community life, local shops, local seafood, bilingual signage (French mostly).
- St. John’s: more urban amenities, plus harbourfront, hills, murals, old buildings. Good base if you want to combine a remote island trip with a city stay.
💭 Final Thoughts
Saint-Pierre doesn’t just use its setting for pretty shots. The geography, the isolation, the mix of French & Canadian culture all of that adds tension, character, and believability.
If you ever visit, you’ll feel part of the show: standing on a rocky pier, breathing the sea air, watching waves crash you’ll sense why the story is so haunting and beautiful.
FAQs
Where is Saint-Pierre et Miquelon exactly?
It’s an archipelago of French territory off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. Pretty remote, tiny population, strong French cultural influence.
Why use both Saint-Pierre et Miquelon and St. John’s for filming?
Combining them allows authentic island atmosphere (weather, views, remoteness) + logistical convenience (crew, lodging, infrastructure, accessibility).
Does filming in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon help the local economy?
Yes! Local businesses gain from hospitality, services, extras (figurants/actors), tourism interest afterwards.
When did Saint-Pierre first air?
The show premiered on January 6, 2025 on CBC.
Who are the main actors and creators?
Allan Hawco (also co-creator), Joséphine Jobert, James Purefoy. Created by Allan Hawco, Robina Lord-Stafford, and Perry Chafe.