04 December 2024

Put on your tuques and mittens for four days and three nights!

Accessible, fun, with a hint of history and nature, but above all a fine balance of fresh air and must-see heritage sites, this itinerary in the Quebec City region is your key to discovering the city and its surroundings at its best… or at its snowiest!

Day 1: Nature immersion

Start your winter escapade with a visit to the Aquarium du Québec, located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. This winter season, the Artika polar adventure is a must-see, with its immersive projection showcasing the wild beauty of the Arctic and its ice sculpture of a polar bear waiting for you to take a self-portrait in the polar container! The well-cleared outdoor paths will allow you to meet the stars of the show: polar bears, arctic foxes, harbor seals and harp seals, each more curious and playful than the last.

Less well known but rich in discoveries, the Maison Léon-Provancher, located in the heart of Vieux-Cap-Rouge, is a place dedicated to Quebec science, nature and biodiversity. “Encouraging experimentation, arousing wonder and stimulating curiosity” are the objectives of the institution, which aims to continue the work of the great naturalist Léon Provancher, a specialist in botany and entomology. The paths around the house offer the chance to enjoy a peaceful stroll while discovering local nature.

Finally, visit the Base de plein air Sainte-Foy, a vast area on the outskirts of town, perfect for a close encounter with nature. For those who enjoy peaceful strolls, there are 2.2 km of accessible, well-maintained trails. A variety of snow-friendly equipment is available, allowing you to take full advantage of the beauty of snow-covered landscapes. The base also offers rest areas to warm up between activities.

Day 2: Exploring the must-sees

For this second day, explore the hidden gems of the greater Quebec City region, with a touch of history and culture, as well as a touch of adrenalin…

Discover the traditions of the Huron-Wendat nation, the customs and rituals of daily life, at the reconstituted village of the Onhoüa Chetek8e Huron Traditional Site. The guided tour takes place outdoors in all seasons, where snow-cleared paths and adapted facilities facilitate access for visitors with reduced mobility. In winter, the site also offers special activities, including demonstrations of traditional tool-making and Aboriginal storytelling.

Then come and meet local producers, processors, artisans and innovators who come together at the Grand Marché de Québec to present a diverse, 100% local agri-food offering. Spacious, bright, accessible and safe, it’s the perfect place for a gourmet break. Entertainment, tastings, workshops and educational activities are offered on weekends.

In the mood for action after these must-see discoveries? Head for Galeries de la Capitale’s Mega Parc, the largest indoor amusement park in Eastern Canada, ideal for escaping the cold while having fun. For thrill-seekers, the park boasts some 15 attractions, some of which are adapted for visitors with reduced mobility. One of the highlights is the Patinarium, a magical indoor ice rink. Adjustable skate rentals and gliding aids enable everyone to enjoy this activity.

Day 3: Old Town and Port of Québec

The third day is devoted to discovering Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In winter, this city is transformed into a picture-postcard setting.

Visit the Monastère des Augustines, a unique, peaceful historic site that combines culture, spirituality and well-being. Cleverly restored to combine four centuries of history and modernity, the museum tells the story of the nuns who founded one of the first hospitals in North America. Tours, daily wellness workshops and a catering service based on the concepts of mindful eating are available for a few hours, a full day or a longer stay with accommodation on site.

If you’d like to explore a completely different theme, one that also plays an important part in our history, head for the Musée naval de Québec, located in the harbour. You’ll discover exhibits on the Canadian navy, the strategic role of the St. Lawrence River during the world wars, and above all the story of the men and women who put their lives on the line to help, rescue or fight.

Treat yourself to a breath of fresh air and experience ice fishing at the Port of Québec’s Nordik Village, temporarily installed on the river at Bassin Louise. Heated domes, winter activities and hot beverage service are provided. You can admire the view of the river while warming up with a hot chocolate in a friendly atmosphere. All the equipment you need to catch trout is provided, so all you have to do is bring your best!

Day 4: Breathtaking views and captivating stories

On this last day of your getaway, why not explore historic institutions and enjoy some of Quebec City’s finest views?

Start with a visit to the Musée des plaines d’Abraham, the gateway to the Plains, one of the world’s most prestigious urban parks, with its unique snow-covered atmosphere. At the museum, a number of exhibits will immerse you in the history of the famous battles that shaped Canada’s destiny. But beyond the material traces, these exhibits also allow you to discover the history and identity of the people from all walks of life who have occupied this site at different times.

Round off your visit to the area with a stop at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, located in the Battlefields Park. It houses rich permanent collections of Quebec and Canadian art, as well as temporary exhibitions in several pavilions. Or save some time for another of the old town’s emblematic museums, the Musée de la civilisation, where a variety of exhibitions offer fresh insights into Quebec, as well as the phenomena and realities that shape our civilization.

Then take a trip to the Capital Observatory. Located atop one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, this observatory offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, the partly ice-covered river and the surrounding mountains. Two self-guided tours with digital applications are offered, as well as the Horizons tour, incorporating immersive video projections from one cardinal point to the next!

No visit to Quebec City would be complete without a visit to the National Assembly of Quebec, one of the city’s most emblematic monuments. On a self-guided or guided tour, discover the building’s architecture, Quebec’s political history and the workings of its parliament. In addition to immersing yourself in parliamentary proceedings, savor Quebec’s terroir in one of the two restaurants, or wander the aisles of the Library, home to more than 220 years of history.