Holiday Guide: Québec

When planning holiday travelling, especially for fun extended weekend excursions sometimes thinking outside of the box can mean a quick flight, crossing the pond or selecting a familiar place to explore more. Spontaneous jaunts are exactly what we have been doing in the past six months or so. One stop that I am hoping to visit is Québec City. I’ve not spent too much time there but it is a memorable place.

Saturated with European influence, Québec is one of those places where people seem so content with life–a great place to book if you’re seeking tropical alternatives, or if you’re looking to digitally unplug and live in the present! Although we’ve run into local English speakers, most natives in the city are French-speaking and over half of the population of Montréal can speak both English and French, so it’s an excellent opportunity to use thatlanguage appthat I introduced you to four years ago.

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The cradle of French civilisation in North America, Québec is the perfect destination for history lovers. Old Québec is a beautifully preserved historic city with marvellous blends of art, heritage, culture, and architecture. Minutes away from Old Québec is Québec City, with its own charm, gorgeous landscapes and exciting activities. Whether you have a few hours or several days to explore the city, I’ve put together some areas to put on your itinerary.

Public Art

If you’re not into art in the least bit, we probably would not be good friends. Enlighten yourself! The arts improve the quality of life (for residents) and strengthen ties with local artists. From art exhibitions to Montréal’s jazz festival, plenty of artful festivities are surrounding the area. Perhaps you would enjoy viewing Codex Populi, which has an angled flagpole measuring 23 metres high, and one of Québec City’s tallest public work of art.

The City of Québec is also reaffirming its commitment to beautifying its public spaces using art through the 2025 Vision of Cultural Development (a new infrastructure plan). Each piece provides a unique photo opportunity and is a chance to find something that speaks to you on a more personal level.

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Scandinavian Baths

Relaxation is available all year long in Québec, with a visit to the Scandinavian Baths at the Nordic Spa. Even in the middle of winter, you can unwind in steamy spas, cool pools, and thermal waterfalls. The Nordic Spa sets itself apart from traditional spas by being outside, immersed in the beautiful, natural Canadian landscape. You can book a session at the award-winning Mont Tremblant Hotel.

Old Québec

Old Québec is ideal for history lovers. In 400 years, the city’s European architecture has been pristinely preserved. Walking through the charming historic neighbourhoods is taking a walk back in time. If you’re looking for even more of a history fix, venture to the Château Frontenac and see spellbinding views of the river from a real-life fairytale castle. Instagram worthy snapshots will likely commence; Île d’Orleans, the St. Lawrence River, the City of Levis, and Québec City’s Lower Town should not be missed!

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Le Buffet de L’Antiquaire

Québec’s signature cuisine was developed by early settlers. It has deep roots in French tradition but has a lot of substance and nutrition due to needing to feed many mouths during harsh winters. Le Buffet de L’Antiquaire may be in a popular tourist zone in Québec, however, it pays homage to their traditional cuisine that sustained everyone through long winters. An affordable breakfast menu is available all day, and it’s a small cosy place that is family-friendly.

Pasties and meat pies, stews, and humble dishes are served for lunch and dinner. Just like their grand-mère (grandmother) used to make them. You can be certain to eat heartily and be satisfied at some of Québec’s favourite foodie spots.

Artillery Park

You won’t be greeted by characters in period costumes at any other park. Artillery Park features a collection of defensive buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries that are now of great strategic importance to the history of Québec City.

By the mid-18th century, the area was transformed into a garrison, and the British Royal Artillery Regiment’s headquarters was founded there until 1871. Group tours in the buildings are available, in addition to speaking to characters dressed in costume about what life was like for residents of Artillery Park.

Have you been to Québec? What places are you planning to visit this year?

This post is sponsored. Visit Mont-Tremblant Hotels, Château Beauvallon to experience this amazing city. All opinions and content expressed are honestly expressed and my own.