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 QUEBEC,
CANADA
Photos (1 and 2) Quebec's scenic harbor, skyline and
the Chateau Frontenac (c). Photo
(3) Exploring the countryside. (c) - All photos copyrighted
Quebec Ministry of Tourism.
EXPLORE QUEBEC. The Journey Begins Here.
Located at the convergence of the St. Lawrence and Saint Charles Rivers lies
Quebec City’s. This piece of French Canada is perched high above the picturesque
rocky cliffs. The City has an old European feel. Boasting to be the first French
City in North America, the Old City dates back 400 years. The old city is the
only walled city in North America and was named the United Nation’s World
heritage site in 1985.
The area at the bottom of the cliff is referred to as Lower Town and the site
of Samuel de Champlain’s first settlement. At this location they have
beautifully restored market square called the Royal Palace. This quaint area has
narrow cobblestone streets, lined with 17th
and 18th Century architecture,
boutiques, open air cafes, street performers, musicians and jugglers. Continuing
down the streets you will come upon the Notre Dame des Victoires – the oldest
standing catholic church in North America.
Ascend to the top of the cliff via funicular to the Chateau Frontenac,
perhaps one of the most recognizable structures in Quebec City. Outside of the
Chateau is the Dufferin Terrace – the vantage point where Samuel de Champlain
built his fort in 1620. On this site is now a romantic boardwalk with
spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River and the Ile d’Orleans.
Accessible via a bridge, the Ile de’Orleans provides exposure to the Quebec
Country side. See the 19th century resort homes of Quebec’s rich merchant class
with exceptional views of the Quebec skyline. Visit the Sugar Shack where you
can learn the history of the island’s production of maple products including
sweet maple taffee. There is even a Maple Museum on premise.
Next explore the National Battlefield Park. This 250 acre park is the site
where the French surrendered to the British in 1759. Explore the gardens and
view the monuments and artillery on display. A stop at Cap Diamant is a perfect
photo opportunity to photograph the St. Lawrence River, the beautiful
countryside and the Lower Town. Visit the Grand Allee, lined with small shops,
sidewalk cafés and boutiques
Visit the Montmorency Falls, where the Montmorency River drops over 272 feet
to the beautiful St. Lawrence River below. The falls are 1.5 times higher than
Niagara Falls.
Located along the famous Beaupre Coast and the St. Lawrence River is the St.
Anne de Beaupre a catholic medieval basilica attracting 1.5 million visitors
annually. This impressive, cross shaped building is built of granite and has
over 200 stain glass windows. Located in the Scala Santa is a replica of the
Holy Stairs which Jesus Christ ascended just prior to being sentenced by Pontius
Pilot. The Scala Santa was constructed in 1891. The Memorial Chapel dates back
to 1676.
Ascend 2,600 feet to the top of Mont Ste Anne via gondola and enjoy the
dramatic views of St. Lawrence and the Isle of Orleans. Once at the summit a
team of horses will pull your sled to the South-West Cottage. From there you can
enjoy the scenic beauty and stop for some freshly baked pastries and coffee.
In the fall, the temperature in Quebec City, Quebec ranges between 60 and 80
degrees during the day. In the evening and early morning, the temperatures are
cooler between 40 and 50 degrees. For daytime wear short-sleeve shirts and short
or light long pants are suitable for most days. In the evening it is recommended
to wear long pants, long sleeve shirts and I would recommend having a sweater
and/or light jacket handy. Since the temperate can vary greatly it is always
best to pack layers.
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