Quebec: Exploring the Culture and Landscape of Canada’s Lower St. Lawrence
Cycling · Hiking · Kayaking · History and Culture
Trip features:
• cycling the country lanes of the Ile d’Orleans
• whale-watching by kayak in the Saguenay Fjord
• exploring the High Gorges of the Malbaie River
• soaking in the Old World ambiance of old Quebec City
• unique history and culture at every turn
• small group travel (5–9 people)
Itinerary:
Day 1
We fly into Quebec City and travel by comfortable van into the historic Old City. Our central hotel will allow us to explore Quebec on foot: the historic Citadel, crowning the cliffs above the St. Lawrence; the Battlefield Park; and the gated, walled city. We’ll descend the famous “breakneck steps” to the Old Port below – home of the oldest stone church in North America, and the plaza dedicated to the “sun king” himself, Louis XIV of France. We’ll ride the Levis ferry for the perfect view of the city. Dinner and overnight in Quebec.
Day 2
This morning, after breakfast and a stroll to the Place Champlain (beside the Hotel Frontenac), we’ll drive to Montmorency Falls. We’ll have lunch in the area, before crossing the “1934 Bridge” to the large St. Lawrence island of Orleans. We’ll explore the cider farms, ancient villages, and picturesque churches by bicycle, as we circle a portion of the island. In the evening, we’ll return to Quebec. After dinner, we’ll stroll to the historic Notre Dame Basilica, for a Europeanesque sound and light show. Overnight Quebec.
Day 4
After breakfast this morning, we’ll return to the “High Gorges.” We’ll hike the famous Acropole des Drauvers Trail for the stunning view over three thousand feet above the river below. We’ll return to La Malbaie in the afternoon to enjoy the river promenade and historic buildings of the town. Overnight La Malbaie.
Day 5
This morning, we’ll drive further northeast along the great St. Lawrence to the beautiful Saguenay Fjord. Here we’ll explore the fertile waters by sea kayak, observing the stunning cliffs, and on the lookout for the whales that frequent the area. We’ll enjoy lunch in Tadoussac, and walk on the headlands above the fjord, before returning to La Malbaie for the overnight.
Day 6
This morning we’ll drive back to Quebec City to catch our flight home.
Day 3
This morning we’ll explore the north shore of the St. Lawrence, arriving in the old river resort town of La Malbaie – our home for the next three nights. In the afternoon, we’ll make the short drive up the Malbaie River to one of Canada’s newest national parks: the High Gorges of the Malbaie. We’ll take the opportunity to explore the beautiful clean waters of the river by kayak (fishing permitted!). We’ll return to the town of La Malbaie for dinner. The northern sun will give those who wish the opportunity to play tennis or swim in the heated pool at our hotel. Overnight La Malbaie.
Cost: $1989 / person; cost is all-inclusive.
Dates: July 7 - 12