Quebec Archives — Thrifty Mommas Tips

Nine Reasons to Stay in Saint-Sauveur Quebec

Paula — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 16:10:27 +0000

It’s no secret that we adore Quebec in any season. In the wintery months, we often take at least one road trip to Mont Tremblant ski resort and village to revisit the extraordinary trails where we learned to ski as a family. While Tremblant is a huge draw for tourists both nationally and internationally, there’s so much more to see in the Laurentians. In this area of Quebec there are numerous villages and cities that are charming, relaxing, scenic and affordable. You won’t have to search too long to find great food or a spectacular relaxing spa for the day. Places like St Agathe, St Jerome and Saint-Sauveur Quebec each offer an alternative to the more well known Quebec ski resort locales. If you want to save money while visiting the nearby Tremblant ski resort then you can easily opt to stay in a quiet spot like Saint-Sauveur Quebec. Many Reasons to Love Saint-Sauveur Quebec Saint-Sauveur is located in between Montreal and Mont Tremblant which makes its location ideal. We arrived here via Chelsea, Gatineau and Ottawa areas where we visited and explored for a couple of days prior to driving two more hours into the Laurentians. Location Saint-Sauveur is an easy drive from Gatineau, but that said tune into the winter weather reports if you are driving in the snowy months. Roads can be slippery during ski season. Head out on a hiking trip or a ski trip, depending on the season. Saint-Sauveur Quebec is a small town with gorgeous scenery, architecture, food and history so you might even consider staying here simply for a quiet break. The Architecture The Food Saint-Sauveur has quite a few bars and restaurants who serve alcohol, the atmosphere at these places varies from classy wine tastings to drinking at the local pub with friends. Either way, it is à great way to unwind and enjoy your evening regardless of the season. The Shopping Saint Sauveur has a super cute Main Street that is highly walkable and fun. Closer to the nearby Saint-Sauveur Quebec.. A few of my personal favorites were à handmade soap and beauty products store, a crystal shop, an antique store, as well as an art store with works from local artists. There is a vintage candy shop that has been operational for 50 years, a great place to take the kids and enjoy the sweets and vintage toys. The History Saint-Sauveur was established in 1855, and a lot of the original architecture still remains in the area. The city combines the charm of a small historical town with modern amenities and culture to create a colourful and rich area for tourism. The Community When we visited Saint-Sauveur, not once did we feel like outsiders. The community and people there were so friendly and helpful, many were fluent in English and French which makes it easy for those who are not fluent. The servers gave great recommendations and made us feel so welcome. The town itself was very accessible, everything was within walking distance making it very easy to travel around the town. Skiing Obviously there’s a lot to be said for skiing in the Laurentians. There’s a cute local ski hill open all year round called Le Sommet Saint-Sauveurs. Use their adventure activities and water park area in the summer and stop by for a lift ticket in the winter. Visiting Saint-Sauveur When travelling with family through Quebec and planning to spend some time in the Laurentians exploring, it pays to think outside the box and widen your search to include small friendly areas such as Saint-Sauveur. From gorgeous architecture, to relaxing accommodations and a walkable Main Street, this destination is well worth exploring. Happy Travels!

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Tackling Interzip, the World’s First Interprovincial Zip Line!

Paula — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 22:23:44 +0000

Many thanks to Tourisme Outaouais for the gifted experience at Interzip, the World’s first interprovincial zip line. This past year when travel was a bit less predictable, we embraced camping, skiing and driving to Quebec to enjoy all the spectacular outdoor terrain. The Laurentians are a big draw for us always, in any season and Quebec is a manageable drive from London, Ontario, and several other Ontario cities, so it is a natural choice. Gatineau is one of our favourite Quebec cities to visit. It’s just the right distance to spend a couple of days in and then launch deeper into Quebec, which is how we planned our itinerary. In Gatineau, we planned to do a few fun family friendly activities that everyone could enjoy. Interzip, the world’s first interprovincial zip line, topped my list of must do activities. So, after an afternoon paddling a canoe and exploring on the outskirts of town, we drove back towards the centre of town, found Rue Jo-Montferrand, located parking and checked in to get our gear, helmets and harnesses and get started. We are a family that loves zip lining. So, any chance we get when we are travelling, we embrace the zip line and outdoor obstacle activities. Interzip, the World’s First Interprovincial Zip Line From the Gatineau business office of Interzip, it’s about a ten minute walk to the zip line platform across the Chaudiere to where the trip begins in Ottawa. The group is directed how to get there and t’s an easy walk over the Ottawa River. Of course, there’s a mandatory quick safety demonstration and it’s time to gear up and go up the stairs to the launchpad. Not so easy are the stairs. LOL. In fact, the hardest part of the entire zip line adventure is the walk up the seemingly endless stairs. The day we were there in late summer it was warm out so we felt the burn from the climb after we stood and listened through the safety instructions. Once you are up there and overlooking the Ottawa River, the stairs seem worth the arduous trip. Where else in the world can you zip from one province to the next? Nowhere actually. This is it. So, Interzip, the world’s only interprovincial zip line is a unique experience. The whole trip across the Ottawa River is fast so enjoy it, the scenery across the river is lovely. While this is one of the shortest zip lines we have ever done, the unique nature of zip lining across river from Ontario to Quebec is more than worth it. Have you been to InterZip? What did you think? The Details Here are the facts about physical size and age. Interzip will open soon. Stay tuned to the Interzip web site for more information and opening dates. They also offer gift tickets. Physical requirements Max. weight: 250 lbs, Min. weight: 70 lbs No minimum height, only weight If you have a specific physical disability, reach out to: info@interzip.ca We enjoyed this experience and would do this activity again.

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Valcartier – The Largest Winter Playground in North America

Paula — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 10:58:44 +0000

Setting – the largest winter playground in North America. We are flying down Everest, a human chain of inner tubes, each of us squealing deliciously, eyes squeezed shut, hearts drumming loudly in our ears. The vertical plummet straight down, as soon as the gate lifts, has me clutching even harder to handles on either side of my tube while simultaneously also wrapping my triceps around my younger daughter’s boots and grounding us both. All that planking at the gym literally paying off right now in this moment as we scream all the way down. At the bottom, when the ground levels out and the tubes finally slow to a halt, we are laughing so hard tears roll down our cheeks threatening to freeze before we all stand up and race back to the tubing conveyer belt in the largest winter playground we’ve ever seen. Back up we go, repeating the adventure time and time again, beaming ear to ear. I have not seen smiles this big in too long. No worry, no work, no school, no tests or projects, just pure play. Over and over we continue racing, spinning, screaming and laughing until we are hardly able to stand up any more. Bienvenue a Hôtel Valcartier! Bienvenue a Hôtel Valcartier! The largest winter playground you will find in North America sits about 20 minutes outside of Quebec City. You’d never know what is hidden here if you were simply driving by. Behind the Hôtel Valcartier is Hôtel de Glace, North America’s only ice hotel, open for guests and daily tours from December to late March. And just beyond that is an incredible tubing zone. Follow the path until you find the family sized rafts and hold onto your hats. The Slippery Outdoor Fun Zone Valcartier’s winter playground features more than 35 slides, including Everest and Avalanche. Seventeen mechanical lifts pull you uphill, carrying your family closer to the action and, with over 5,000 inner tubes, there’s very little waiting involved. The mechanical lifts are some of the coolest we have seen anywhere dragging you uphill while you sit in an inner tube. Talk about the life! View this post on Instagram That time we had maple 🍁 taffy on ice at Valcartier Vacances in Quebec. So sweet and simply a perfect treat for Quebec. Don’t leave the province without trying this. #travel #giftedexperience #flashesofdelight #quebecoriginal #epicfamilyroadtrip #food #yum #mapletaffy #wanderlust #familytravel #canada #quebecregion #ifwtwa #travelblogger #travelwriter A post shared by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on Apr 1, 2019 at 5:34pm PDT How Scary are the Slides at Valcartier? Each of the tubing runs is marked with level of difficulty ranging from easy to double black diamond daring fun, not unlike a ski hill. The Avalanche rafting group slides, Tornado round boat and Everest are extremely popular, so find your group and get in line. Whether you are a young family looking for a tamer version of wintery slides, or full tilt adrenaline junkies you will find a hill that’s just your speed. The Coolest Lifts Too This is not our first time tubing as a family, but it is without a doubt the most enjoyable tubing experience we have ever had together. We have done tubing where you walk up and down the hill entirely on your own steam and we’ve also visited some facilities where they use a magic carpet system, but this mechanical lift at Village Vacances Valcartier has all previous systems beat. The largest winter playground has the best lift system too. This is everything. Laughter, fun, playing together as a family levels out the days when there’s nothing remotely laughable about life. With Bora Park indoor waterpark, an ice hotel, tubing, indoor arcade, spa, sugar shack, skating rink and Everest too, there’s so much to do here that you will have to prioritize. The Last Part of Our March Road Trip Hôtel de Glace and Hôtel Valcartier are the final stops on our March break road trip. We started at home 12 days ago and drove to Vermont where we visited Okemo in Ludlow and skied for 2 gorgeous days. Then on to Sugarbush, our Vermont home away from home, to find out about their 60th anniversary celebrations. After skiing through epic Vermont we headed to Maine for three nights at Sunday River. Finally, after all that skiing we drove up to Quebec City where the snow was as high as the rooftops. The five hour drive was a bit hairy, especially when we saw someone spin right off the road. But eventually, Valcartier rose up just as the road levelled out at the base of a hill. We are here to stay at, visit, and write about Hôtel de Glace. Read more about our NIGHT in the ICE HOTEL, at Hôtel de Glace. Quebec’s winter work of art, the Hôtel de Glace is something everyone should do at least once. The Day After Our Ice Hotel Stay On our first night, we stay in the ice hotel. After the ice sculpting party and tour, we dress properly, dry off and leave valuables inside the hotel room. Sleep comes fast. In the morning, hearts swelling with pride, we race to breakfast, then the tubing hills and the indoor waterpark too. After a hearty breakfast at Resto Safari we are ready for the tubing hills! Resto Safari has a buffet and a menu too. We each order from the menu, which was a great choice for us. The crêpes and breakfast casserole are hearty, savoury, and sweet! That’s just right for a day of outdoor fun at the largest winter playground in North America. The rooms inside Hôtel Valcartier are clean and modern. Our room features a pull out wall bed that converts to give us more space during the day. The lobby and entry to the hotel is elegant, spacious and light. Down the hall on the main level, there are shops and indoor restaurants which give the feeling of a neighbourhood. In fact, my youngest daughter told me it reminded her of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship we were on once. The design has a relaxed, warm, feeling. Skating and Maple Taffy After an entire day full of adrenaline inducing outdoor tubing and snow raft runs, we skate around the forest track for a bit. Rental skates are available or you can bring your own. Then the girls ask for maple taffy on snow. YUM! There are two sugar shacks outside open during the day. Bora Park Indoor Waterpark Swimsuits on, we are ready for more play together at the indoor waterpark. A couple of fast tubing rides together and we break for quick dinner at the waterpark restaurant. Basic fast food fare, but good enough for a night inside the humid Bora Park. An indoor Flo-Rider surfing ride is extremely popular. Be ready to wait if you are interested in learning how to ride the waves. The lazy river is also a light show, so that’s unique. Of course there’s a wave pool and there are several areas perfect for young families. Before leaving for our drive home we all agree this is the most fun possible outdoors in the winter anywhere. Start with the Hôtel de Glace then take at least one or two more nights in Hôtel Valcartier, so you can fill a day or two with play. There’s so much value in that experience! But What About Summer? In summer months Valcartier features camp grounds, which also have access to all of the seasonal activities. Camp sites feature different prices and accommodation types, with cabins, tents or RV stays. Late May outdoor camping launches and summer kicks into high gear in mid June. This year the outdoor waterslides start June 12th! Plan Your Stay Now! -> Get Your Valcartier Snow Tubing Packages from Viator Do this Day Trip – Ice Hotel and City Tour OR Do The Ice Hotel Tour on its own. This one does not include transportation. Tips for Your Stay Bring snow pants, hats, gloves, thermal base layer, good boots and maybe even ski goggles. When you whip down the tubing hills that fast, snow flies everywhere! Pack a protein bar or two if you want to get the most from your time. Don’t forget your swimsuit. Bring a camera too. On our long drive home to London, we all decided collectively that Valcartier trumps Atlantis in the Bahamas. That’s no small thing at all, but Valcartier has so much more for families. It’s truly the most fun you can have outside in the winter months in Canada. We were guests of Valcartier and Hôtel de Glace Quebec in 2019. This experience was so incredible we cannot say enough. It is a must do. Post also contains affiliate links as a service to readers.

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Where in Canada Can You Stay in a Hotel Made of Ice?

Paula — Thu, 23 May 2019 23:11:33 +0000

I wake on a bed of ice, intricate carvings of a basilisk surrounding me, light subtly creeping through a snow ceiling and polished bricks of ice. Outside this crystal ice palace, the world is still and silent. The kids, in the bed beside ours, just a few feet away are still snugly bundled, not yet stirring. Beside me, wrapped in a burrito sleeping bag, is my husband. I hear the familiar rise, fall and slight catch of his breath. What Can I Expect Overnight at Hôtel de Glace Quebec? I squeeze my eyes shut a moment longer, listening with my whole body to the sounds of morning in an ice castle. A stark meditation. No humming appliances, creaking wooden floors, or air moving through ducts. No noise from other rooms inside Hôtel de Glace Quebec. All the scurrying, flying creatures, in this area of Quebec, hibernate still. Morning Math In my head, I count the bodies. 1, 2, 3, 4. Four of us last night went through the methodical routine, following each step of the preparation precisely. And one by one we drifted off quickly and warmly bundled. And four woke up, all present and accounted for, inside room 24 at Hôtel de Glace Quebec. We made it through the night! I take this all in for a few more minutes, practicing mindfulness, and recognizing that this silence will soon be broken. Perhaps I can commit this feeling of pride to memory longterm, I think, warmth swelling in my chest, spreading outwards through each pore, until it turns the corners of my eyes and lips up in a smile. After about half an hour, a wake up call comes wrapped in a French Canadian accent and we all stretch. Permission to talk quietly has been granted by this gentle interruption. Around me is a chorus of: “We made it.” “We made it.” and “I can’t believe we slept through the night!” How Do You Get to Quebec’s Ice Hotel? Hôtel de Glace Quebec is the final stop on our 12-day winter road trip, and after skiing for 8 days in a row we are ready to change it up slightly. We left Sunday River Resort in Newry, Maine and drove to Quebec City, roughly five hours away. From there, it’s 20 to 30 minutes to Valcartier and Hôtel de Glace. Driving or Air? We are Here Valcartier rises up at the end of the afternoon when light is slowly vanishing. The Hôtel de Glace is here on the grounds of Hôtel Valcartier, its home each winter for several years. The Quebec City ice hotel is the only ice hotel in North America and it has resided in Quebec since 2001. Exhaustion and excitement are both warring for control of our minds and bodies, but the minute we spy the lit torches lining a snowy path concealing the famous ice hotel, everything else takes a backseat. We are staying in one of the family rooms inside Hôtel de Glace. Inside the Rooms There are 42 rooms in the 2019 Jardins themed Hôtel de Glace. Some rooms have a theme and some do not. Prices vary depending on size of the room and whether it has a theme or not. Art and design students completed several rooms in 2019. Tonight a movie crew is filming overnight and staff want to be sure we are not disturbed by any noise. Attention to detail and service at the Hôtel de Glace is world class, as it should be. When Is Hôtel de Glace Quebec Open? Hôtel de Glace is built every December in a carefully orchestrated series of phases. Because it is built in stages, with utmost safety in mind, the entire vision is not typically complete until January. It’s an ambitious work of art and sculpture, coupled with a precise build and stays up until mid March every year, just outside Quebec City, in a small spot called Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier. Does it Melt? The temperature is controlled at -5 Celsius indoors and it only stays open until mid-March. Then it is dismantled on purpose. Structurally, it wouldn’t be sound, to let it melt. It takes 5 weeks to build and 5 hours to dismantle. The Theme Inside In 2019, when we stayed overnight at Hôtel de Glace the ice hotel pulled its inspiration from nature and gardens. The year before that, in 2018, the theme was the circus. While the theme dictates artistic changes inside every winter, the location has been the same for several years now. Other things that do not change: there is always a chapel located near the main ice hotel. It is non denominational and an enchanting setting for many weddings every year. The basic architecture and engineering process design doesn’t change that much annually. Gothic arches sustain the weighty blocks of ice fashioned into walls, floor, chandeliers, and a roof. Honeymoon Suite Hôtel de Glace Quebec contains a honeymoon suite every year, which goes hand in hand with the weddings held on site. Both singles and couples rent the suite every year as a treat. The honeymoon suite is colourful and spacious, with features that make you feel as if you are the only person, or people, on earth. It has its own entrance to a private hot tub and also a decorative fireplace in the room. Plan It Yourself All Your Questions Answered When I told my family we’d be staying in Hôtel de Glace in Quebec overnight, we had a wide range of emotions from excitement to disbelief to concern some of us wouldn’t make it through the night outdoors in an elaborate room made of ice. “Are the floors ice and, if so, won’t we slip?” “Are the beds ice and if so won’t we stick to them or slide off? “How cold is it?” “What if we need to go to the washroom at 3 a.m.?” First of all, I had no expectations beyond wanting them to try to sleep through the night. Sometimes, it is enough just to try. So I told them that and then also explained that every resident has a room indoors at Hotel Valcartier. A backup room. If you try your stay inside Hôtel de Glace Quebec and realize you can’t handle the quiet, or the cold is not for you, take comfort knowing you can go in and sleep indoors. There’s no extra fee. This is simply part of your stay. But What About….? Are There Bathrooms in Quebec’s Ice Hotel? Ice Sculpting Welcome Party After your briefing, the evening begins in earnest. A welcome party with a chance to make your own ice sculpture starts the activity at 9 p.m. Ice sculpting sounded fun and everyone gets one drink served in an ice glass. The kids opted for hot chocolate. Watch Your Fluids Do not drink coffee, tea, or beer before bed. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and you will definitely wake in the night, which you don’t really want to do. One drink during the welcome reception and that’s all you need. They remind you of this at the briefing. View this post on Instagram The light inside the Hotel de Glace changes throughout the day and at night of course too. When we arrived we took a tour after the drive from Maine and we found the bar and sculptures lit up in jewel tones of sapphires and frosty blues with rainbow hues of pink and purple. In the morning when we woke the sun washed bright light throughout the halls and ice walls and we headed in to get dressed for a day of tubing and skating and waterslides. Later in the afternoon I returned with @payton_schuck to peek at the structure then. In mid afternoon on a sunny day the rooms are lit naturally and it’s a great time to take photos too. The Hotel de Glace is only open a couple of weeks longer, depending on weather and then it will be completely dismantled to return next year. Five to six weeks to build this artistic display and five hours to dismantle purposefully. It is in fact the only hotel made of ice in the world that is reconstructed every year. There are other hotels made of ice that remain permanently all year but in Quebec there are four seasons and ice would not last. Although on our way driving when we spied snow banks that were the same height as houses we were astonished at the sheer amount of ⛄️ snow still in March just a few weeks before spring makes an appearance. Stay tuned because this is an experience to treasure. I’ll let you know next year when it is ready for guests. You have to do this tour at the very least and I highly recommend doing the overnight stay. It was so brilliant. Hard to describe how proud we all felt after making it through the entire night tucked in sleeping bags in Room 24. I told everyone I had no expectations other than I wanted them to try. And try we did. In fact we all succeeded and slept peacefully through the evening and awakened with gigantic smiles on our faces. Here in this photo I am standing by the ice bar. Go. Do. Be proud. Make memories. Experience this space. The quiet overnight will do you so much good. #giftedexperience #travel #ifwtwa #wanderlust #quebecoriginal #jaimevalcartier #quebec #canada #traveling #familytravel #magic #flashesofdelight #makingmemoriestogether #ice #nature #love #art #sculpture A post shared by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on Mar 16, 2019 at 6:26am PDT Preparing to Go to Bed in Quebec’s Ice Hotel After the ice sculptures are finished and you’ve had a brief visit to the bar, it’s time to prepare. First, head back to your indoor room and change into your swimsuit. Leave valuables inside your room at Hôtel Valcartier and take comfort knowing things will be safe indoors for the night. Do Not Make This Mistake In fact, you MUST follow the rule and leave valuables in the room. If you bring your glasses, for instance, to the rooms in Hôtel de Glace Quebec and set them on the nightside table you will have a problem when they freeze to the stand. (You wouldn’t be the first person to do this either.) Warm Up First Grab your warm, cozy, bathrobe and head out to the hot tubs under the stars. Lean back and relax in The Arctic Spas hot tubs as jets massage your back. Slip into the sauna quickly. This process serves a purpose. Warming your core temperature to a higher temperature than usual means that you should be warm, heading into the night in Quebec’s ice hotel. Hot tub and saunas are open from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. for Hôtel de Glace residents only. Can’t sleep? Head back out to the hot tub. So after a soak in the hot tub and a few relaxing minutes in the sauna too, we dried off thoroughly and went back inside our Valcartier room. There we decided which clothing made the most sense. Do not use the same clothing you wore all day. Opt for a thin, dry, synthetic, base layer instead. Don’t Overdress One of the biggest mistakes people make is wearing too much clothing to bed. When you sweat in the ice hotel, then you get cold. We wore coats, boots, hats and gloves out to the room and found our bundles on each bed. Open them up and find your sleeping bag with small pillow and a toga-like sheet inside. Unroll and remove your boots, then stand on the bed, climb into the sheet and sleeping bag. Boots go inside each other, so they don’t freeze or accumulate moisture. Remember to set them where you can reach them quickly in the morning. It Takes Teamwork Now this part is the tricky teamwork part. One member of the group or family has to go last and make sure everyone has their sleeping bag and other items organized for bed. Place coats, mittens and any other unnecessary layers inside the dry bag provided and seal it until the morning. One by one we all tucked in. Our youngest needed a bit of help and my oldest, who has Generalized Anxiety Disorder, was a bit anxious about sleeping through the night. Last, but Not Least.. Finally, Dad climbed into his sleeping bag too. Not going to lie, we individually squirmed around a bit as we tried to figure out the ideal way to bundle and how tight to cinch the sleeping bags, while still leaving enough of our faces clear, so we could breathe. Also we both kept our hats on. Bring a beanie style hat to fit under the sleeping bag. Is It Cold Overnight at Hôtel de Glace, Quebec? I was honestly warm enough to sleep. Sleeping bags are rated to -30 C, so sweet dreams are possible. The only chilly part was my nose. Several hours later I woke well rested, ready for a hearty breakfast of crêpes at Safari restaurant inside the main building and excited to tackle the tubing slides at Valcartier with my family. Sweet Dreams, Even With Anxiety As a lot of my readers know my older girl struggles with anxiety disorder and we have other special needs on board here too. She worries sometimes upto 75 % of her day. So, out of all of us, I was most concerned that she wouldn’t be able to sleep in an ice hotel. But she did it. It’s important to me that she doesn’t miss out on life because of anxiety, so succeeding at doing this when she didn’t think she could, is such a confidence booster. You Will Remember Hôtel de Glace Quebec Staying overnight at Hôtel de Glace Quebec made us feel like royalty. Add to that, time spent at Valcartier, plus a morning tubing, and an evening plummeting down waterslides at Bora Park indoor water park and it all adds up to the most fun possible during winter in Canada. We were guests of Valcartier and Hôtel de Glace Quebec in 2019. This experience was so incredible we cannot say enough. It is a must do.

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All the Best Things to Do in Saguenay Lac Saint Jean

Paula — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 11:57:57 +0000

Saguenay Lac Saint Jean was a complete mystery to me when we arrived there after touring Quebec Maritime and Quebec City this spring. I didn’t really know what to expect and I had never been before. Sometimes those adventures are the best. Having no preconceived notion of what to expect allowed me to let my imagination run wild. I’d say the sky is the limit when you take that kind of trip but it’s only half true in Saguenay Lac Saint Jean. The sky, the lake, the mountains and fjord are really the only limits. Boasting some stunning natural vistas, a spectacular lake, which many say looks more like an inland sea, and the Saguenay River which flows through a gorgeous fjord, Saguenay is resource rich. Riverfront communities abound in this water-rich area of Quebec which offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, fine dining, and more. All of this makes Saguenay Lac Saint Jean a great choice for a relaxing, adventurous getaway. There’s So Much to Do and See in Saguenay Lac Saint Jean Nature lovers, history buffs, outdoors enthusiasts and foodies will all find something in the area. With its unique natural beauty, historical sites and landmarks, cruise and dining options, it makes a great getaway for both couples and families with children. And honestly is there any other Canadian destination where a fjord is this accessible? Plan a visit soon and don’t miss several of these activities and attractions when there. Zoo Sauvage de Saint-Felicien Both kids and adults will love Zoo Sauvage which features hundreds of native animals in a respectful, natural setting. I had the opportunity to visit Zoo Sauvage in May while traveling through the area with three other travel writers and friends. This was a true highlight. On a rainy May morning we met just before lunch in the lobby area of ZOO Sauvage. First we were blown away by the quality of the food in the cafeteria. Tourtière anyone? The facility is a lovely new looking building and we joined our guide on a bus through the Borealie environment. At Zoo Sauvage the animals roam free throughout and the people are merely passing through their home. There’s a camp offered here too. Basically you can sleep on site and kayak on the lake and wake up to caribou and elk. The Zoo Sauvage is a 485 hectare animal facility with over 1,000 animals including 75 native and exotic species. Saguenay Fjord National Park Nature lovers will be impressed with the stunning beauty of this federally protected marine park. Innumerable pines cover the mountains that slope right down to the water. Trails and tons of watersports like sea kayaking make for a natural paradise. Val-Jalbert Historical Village – “The Ghost Town“ This town is perfect for families with children and history lovers. Explore the town that is just as it was before it was abandoned. Original buildings, an old paper mill, beautiful waterfall, and more await, all described by knowledgeable guides. AND, you can book a stay here. Modern amenities in a ghost town atmosphere make it cool and comfortable too. So plan ahead and consider sleeping in a ghost town. Not everyone can say that. Parc Cap Jaseux Treehouses Remember how much fun treehouses were when we were kids? At Parc Cap Jaseux visitors can stay in their very own treehouse. Situated 8 feet off the ground, these treehouses offer spectacular views of the Fjord du Saguenay and the surrounding natural beauty. Be prepared to rough it, though. There’s no water or electricity. Or you can choose a transparent dome overlooking the fjord. Insanely awesome. Sea Kayaking Kayaking through the Saguenay Fjord is serious kayaking. We worked hard to get through the waves at so many points. Fitting into those wetsuits was something else. For the real deal sea kayaking check out Charles at Organisaction. Cannot say enough good things about Charles and the stunning natural surroundings in Parc Cap Jaseux. Also, if you want to do a long sea kayaking and hiking adventure this is the spot to do it. La Velouroute Des Bleuets. The blueberry route leads cyclists of all calibres on 256 kms of world-class cycling trail around Saint Jean Lake. I wish the weather had been warmer when we visited this area because we were all looking forward to doing this. The morning we had a cycling adventure planned it snowed. IN MAY!!?? So we headed to Val Jalbert ghost town instead. Air Defense Museum Open from June to September, The air defense museum will appeal to aviation enthusiasts as well as children. See real aircraft such as jets and helicopters up close as well as real jet engines and more. Learn all about Canadian aviation history. Via Ferrata or Aerial Adventures in Parc Cap Jaseux. If you have never seen one of these Via Ferrata’s then picture this: Rock climbing through the gorgeous Parc Cap Jaseux. I mentioned a different Via Ferrata in Tremblant National Park last year which was super challenging and very high. We didn’t do it, but the Tremblant Park one looked insane. So the Via Ferrata in Parc Cap Jaseux looked doable for families in my opinion. I mean they both are marked as family friendly. But I can say I feel like my active family could do this one in Parc Cap Jasuex. Did I mention the dome? Sphere at Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux. What a unique spot to rest your head in beautiful Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. So many cool accommodations here. ✈🇨🇦👍🐳🐋 #saglac #adventures #ad #sageunay #travel #quebec #travelblogger #travels #saguenaylacstjean #saguenaylac #saguenayfjord #wanderlust #ifwtwa #fun #springadventures #adventuretravel #Canada #quebecoriginal A post shared by Paula Schuck (@inkscrblr) on May 9, 2018 at 3:28pm PDT Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon Nature’s beauty is on full display in this gorgeous national park. Enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and more in this natural wonderland. This area of Quebec lends itself to many outdoor activities and adventures. Airplane and Helicopter Tours There’s no better way to take in the beauty of Saguenay Lac Saint Jean than by air. There are wonderful aerial tour options available for those who want to take to the skies for the ultimate tour. We had one of these tours planned but we were too early in May and the snow lasted too long. The planes were literally still frozen to the lake and couldn’t move to fly yet. (GO in the summer months and make this happen.) Nordic Spa Relax in luxury at the Chalet et Spa Lac St Jean. Rebuilt after a major fire last year the spa features all the spa goodies you know and love, with Nordic hot, cold relax series of baths designed to improve circulation and relax you. The loft style condos here were adorable. Outdoor facilities along the riverside include warm basins, dry sauna and more. Auberge des Battures Foodies will love the fine dining at Abuerge des Battures. Featuring gourmet French and regional cuisine, all made with locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant takes food to a new level. This was the best meal we had the entire trip. The braised beef was outrageously good and fall off the bone moist. I of course shared my meal on Instagram. The blueberry wine aperitif was crazy delicious. Musee du Fjord Such a surprise! I assumed it would be a museum like any other. Not so. Musee du Fjord is creative and engaging. From the moment you enter you are transported into a theatrical arena reminiscent of a Star Trek space ship. An immersive show draws you into the geography and history of the area from billions of years ago. Also there’s a giant aquarium, a touch pool and numerous rotating itinerant exhibits. It’s educational without being boring. Saguenay Lac Saint Jean has Something for Everyone Whether you’re a nature lover, historical buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Saguenay Lac Saint Jean has something for you. I could travel every year to a spot in Quebec and never get bored. It’s a province that naturally supports exploring and adventures where the environment always is the star of the show. If you’re looking for a unique Quebec getaway, consider Saguenay Lac Saint Jean. Its beauty, historical and cultural importance, and amazing geography make it so worth the visit. Meanwhile in Quebec Maritime Region nearby: Near Tadoussac while visiting Cote Nord Region? Plan to do a Tadoussac whale watching tour. And families will love Ferme 5 Etoiles working farm and animal observation/ rescue centre. If you the it right around May then consider staying at Cap Au Leste overlooking the fjord. Views are spectacular and the prices aren’t bad. The road there is impassable for a few months of the year. It is perfect from mid-May to August. I was a guest of Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean in May and as such received accommodations, meals and attractions. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful. This post may also contain affiliate links as a service to readers.

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Whale Watching in Tadoussac For the First Time

Paula — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:11:59 +0000

I am on a 3-hour Tadoussac whale watching tour on a cold Monday in May. For years I have imagined going whale watching. Didn’t know where or when, simply that it had to happen. So here I am searching for whales breaching, whales dotting the horizon, whale tails…anything and everything whale. “I’m not leaving until I see whales,” I have told my travel companions on a Tadoussac whale watching tour. At the start of the day after a home cooked breakfast in Auberge La Sainte Paix, a bed and breakfast where we stayed overnight, I warned the three travel bloggers with me that I would not leave Tadoussac until I saw whales with my own eyes in Quebec Maritime. One of my GOOD friends has warned me: “Well, I will leave without you.” But I am committed. Last night we drove to Tadoussac after a conference in Quebec City. We have a 6-day tour of Quebec Maritime and Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean planned. So we left the city around 3 p.m. and drove for three hours until we hit the Tadoussac-Baie-Sainte-Catherine Ferry. It’s a short, cold ferry ride across the bay and here we are. Dinner at La Galouine is a hint of what is to come. The seafood. OH boy. Geek Life’s Aeryn Lynne and I both order something called a Seafood Cocotte. It’s fresh seafood cooked in a rich broth and served in a pretty ceramic dish. Divine. The next morning we are up and ready for adventures. The friendly owner of the Auberge La Sainte Paix says it’s possible to see beluga whales right from the window overlooking the bay. “We’ve already seen one this morning.” Encouraging, I think, scrutinizing the water for whales and failing to see anything but waves and the occasional bird. Tadoussac is such a tiny spot on the Côte-Nord Region of Quebec Maritime. It’s basically at the intersection of Charlevoix and Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean and yet it is well known for its beluga whales. It is on the Whale Trail. People come from all over to do the Tadoussac whale watching cruise and stay in the area. Many visitors here are European, and often from the French speaking countries. In fact, at breakfast we are seated with a pair of tourists from France. We check out and take a quick walk around through Tadoussac village before heading to the CIMM (Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre) Inside the CIMM, Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre we meet Melanie, a naturalist who shares beluga facts with us. Belugas stay all year long on the St Lawrence River. They have been an endangered species since 2017. Thirteen different species of whales call the Quebec Maritime, Tadoussac area home. 13!! Today the population of belugas here in this bay is around 900. In 1940 the population started to decline dramatically. A red tide in 2008 impacted all marine fauna, but the impact of that is normally limited, she says. Many other possible contributing factors exist. Climate change is likely a big factor and when winters are not as cold as usual, the barrier that ice usually affords beluga whales is less protective. Pollution, traffic, change of diet are all thought to be contributing factors to their decline. A few other random beluga facts. Mates that are together will stay for life. CIMM uses drones and hydrophones currently to study sound pollution and its impact on beluga whales. Each beluga has its own signature – it’s the first thing the moms teach their young Baby belugas babble like our babies do and they are born in July/August. After learning about belugas and other whales too I advise Melanie I’ve never seen a whale or been on a whale watching tour. I am reasonably sure I will see one on the Quebec Maritime Tadoussac whale watching tour we are going on with Croisieres AML. But, as I am standing at the window of the building trying to keep warm, Melanie spies a beluga and points it out. A bright white flash and then it’s gone, but it’s clearly a beluga and I practically jump up and down. MY first ever whale spotting in its natural environment. Brilliant! That one sighting could have almost been enough for me actually. But after leaving CIMM we drive to Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park for more. We spend a bit of time exploring the area, taking photos. Then we hike the beautiful Pointe de L’Islet Trail in Tadoussac village, before the boat boards for our 1 p.m. Tadoussac Quebec whale watching cruise and off we go. All whale watching tours and boats are required to stay a specific distance away from whales and wildlife. Ours is no different. A naturalist is on board directing the crowd and describing what we are seeing once we finally get to an area where whales are commonly nearby. Then we sit and wait. There’s a good deal of waiting and watching, camera at the ready when whale watching and it sure is cold. Grateful we have mittens and hats, scarves and multiple layers of jackets and sweaters on today. So dress warmly if you plan to do this amazing cruise. What’s the Weather Like in Tadoussac? Tadoussac weather in May can vary from hovering just a bit above zero Celsius to highs of 20 degrees Celsius by end of the month. BUT, it fluctuates quite a bit. June weather in Tadoussac, Quebec is a bit more reliable at an average of 17 – 20 Celsius much of the month and can be as high as 26 Celsius towards end of the month. July and August are warm with highs on average of 23 Celsius and lows around 11 C at night. September begins to get quite a bit colder at night. What Can I Expect? The boat stops and we listen and watch closely. Our guide tells us 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock and we scramble to the sides of the boat for a glimpse. Now I know what to look for and when the sun hits the waves I spy many flashes of white belugas throughout the afternoon. They are small but distinct. About an hour later we see a MINKY whale breaching. Every time someone notices one they point: “Over there.” In my excitement I find later many of my shots are out of focus. I get a few belugas in the distance but the minkys are blurry on camera. It’s more than enough to see them with your own eyes. In total I have spied 2 or 3 minky whales and multiple belugas on the tour. After a zodiac boat passes by we see more Minkys not too far off from the contrasting orange boat. And then we head through the Saguenay Fjord, which is a real treat. The Saguenay Fjord was created billions of years ago. Passing through the fjord we spy harp seals sunning themselves on rocks and this time my camera is fast enough and focused. By the time the day ends I have seen about eight whales; belugas and minkys and I am thrilled. A good friend and travel blogger Margarita Ibbott of DownshiftingPro has done this tour in July and tells me you can see an even wider variety then. The cold fresh water of the Saguenay combines with the salty water of the St. Lawrence to create a rich environment for marine mammals. The area is also rich in krill so whales love that. That’s just part of the reason this area of Quebec is famous for the whale watching tours. At the end of our three hour boat tour I’m pretty sure I was beaming ear to ear. Tadoussac whale watching is an epic, breathtaking, educational way to spend a day and so worth sharing with friends Margarita Ibbott, Aeryn Lynne and Vanessa Chiasson. Make the trip preferably in the summer months and enjoy this gorgeous rural spot, coupled with the Tadoussac whale watching tour. Random Fun Fact: The historic Hotel Tadoussac is where Hotel New Hampshire was filmed. Based on the John Irving novel. Tadoussac is largely bed and breakfasts and similar stays, so if you want to stay in a traditional hotel stay here open mid May to end of October. If you are there at the right time in Tadoussac you should also look into taking a sea plane tour over the fjord. How Can I Duplicate This Trip? Book a stay at the Auberge Saint Paix by visiting this link. FYI this bed and breakfast received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Book the Croisieres AML Tadoussac Whale Watching tour now. We were guests of Quebec Maritime while visiting and as such received accommodations, food and attractions in consideration of a post here. This post also contains affiliate links as a service to my readers.

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STEM Camp – Summer Day Camps Building Curiosity

Paula — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 09:35:18 +0000

Imagine a camp where you build your own space suit, or monitor weather in space. A camp where your children explore the world around them, ask questions and create experiments. Building curiosity and engaging young people all summer long is the name of the game at STEM Camp. I couldn’t be happier to share Stem Camp with you. STEM Camp is one of my favourite children’s STEM summer day camps. You already know STEM is the future and maybe you wonder how to nurture that interest. Maybe you worry your kids don’t get enough STEM in school. Well, STEM Camp is a great way to address that. These innovative hands-on summer day camps are fun and also help kids build curiosity, critical thinking skills and confidence. That all leads to better futures for our kids. STEM Camp is on a Mission Over the years, STEM Camp has made its mission to bring STEM to as many kids as possible. What started out as a single location is now a series of camps all across Ontario. They have grown by leaps and bounds since they started. This non-profit camp is proactive in its approach to making STEM accessible to as many kids as possible. Through the years, they have actively engaged in campaigns to help bring more girls to these summer day camps to nurture curiosity and build confidence. They’ve also partnered with the First Nations to bring STEM to those communities as well. All of this means more access to STEM for more boys AND girls in all communities, including those that are underserved. Highly Qualified Instructors If you are a parent you want to know about the instructors at summer day camps. Trusting your child to someone new can be a leap of faith. It doesn’t have to be. This inclusive summer day camp hires friendly and well-qualified instructors, many of whom are in college themselves. High quality instructors, great activities, an inclusive atmosphere and a great price! All things that matter to me when I choose a camp for my kids. Having college students who are passionate about STEM as counsellors ensures that kids learn STEM concepts the right way. Maybe kids take these concepts with them to help at school. Knowledge gained here builds curious kids who become confident adults able to think critically. That’s one way to change the world. Learning That’s Fun STEM Camp summer day camps focus on building curiosity and wonder in a safe friendly environment. Hands-on projects and experiments help kids grasp STEM concepts in a real way. Each week of camp has a theme which incorporates all aspects of STEM in a way that keeps kids interested and engaged. Take Space Week as an example. During this themed week, kids will focus on different aspects of space. Building a Space Suit – Over a three day period, kids construct their own space suit. This project helps with understanding Earth and space systems as well as structures and mechanism. The kids will also learn why astronauts need space suits, what components are required to build one, how to design the suit for spacewalks, and if weight plays a factor in suit construction. Space Weather – Each day, campers monitor the weather in space and discuss how it differs from Earth’s weather. This helps them understand what space weather is, how the weather in space is possible, how it affects the Earth, what role the poles play in the weather, and what the magnetosphere is. Don’t Miss Out on STEM Camp STEM Camp is doing great work bringing STEM to boys and girls in a variety of communities across Ontario. Camps cost $210 to $285 weekly. There’s still time to book a session or two of these STEM summer day camps, although specific sessions are filling up fast. So enrol as soon as possible. This hands-on STEM Camp experience prepares your kids for the future of work, and with 16,300 STEM Camp graduates since 2013, it’s going strong. Science, technology, engineering and math skills are vital to the future. Build on your kids sense of wonder and curiosity all summer long. Find a Stem Camp location near you. Oh and Stem Camp is now offering workshops for elementary schools as well. If you are a last minute Sally like me sometimes don’t fret. There’s still time to sign up, but some sessions are filling fast. Enrol now! Use the code: STEMtm10 to save when you sign your kids up for this incredibly fun and educational camp. This post has been sponsored by Stem Camp. My opinion is truthful and it is all my own.

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Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac – Modern Amenities in an Old World Castle

Paula — Tue, 29 May 2018 10:37:59 +0000

Nestled inside the walls of Old Quebec lies the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Originally a castle, this stunning building is now one of the most luxurious, memorable hotels in Canada. I stayed at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac while I attended the Women in Travel Summit being held there, and I can say without a doubt that it was one of the most scenic and luxurious hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Perfectly Combines Old World and Modern Day The Fairmont began as a castle, and as such, it has some unique rooms, which I find charming. It recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation, and it shows. Thanks to the recent revamp, the hotel has all the modern luxuries I’ve come to expect on my travels as well as that wonderful touch of the past that makes places like this so alluring to a traveler like me. Boasting stunning views of both the Lawrence River and the architecture of the Old Fortified City, the Fairmont sweeps you away to a time long forgotten while keeping your feet firmly planted in the modern day. Comfort and Style in Equal Measure With 611 guestrooms, the hotel is massive, but not intimidating. In fact, staying there felt peaceful and relaxing, especially when I took in the amazing view from the indoor swimming pool. The rooms are well-appointed and clean with appropriate furnishings and colours. I was in awe of the architecture of this hotel from the moment I saw its exterior. But to be honest most of Quebec City is like that. As I made my way through the lobby and then on to my room, The Fairmont continued to impress me with its attention to detail. Our room held two double beds and it was cozy. There was a TV entertainment centre with Keurig and a small business nook. The view was the best part of this room. Beds were fine and I slept well because the castle itself is quiet. The lobby was big and open with beautiful wood on the walls and gorgeous hanging lights that gave a feel of old world comfort in these modern days. In fact, all the rooms are like that. From the wine and cheese bar to the dining room and the guestrooms themselves, everything is beautiful as per the standard Fairmont level of style and service. The guest rooms offered a more modern feel without being cold or uninviting, and the indoor pool and fitness center were both incredibly well-maintained and up to date. The Perfect Conference Destination WITS couldn’t have picked a better destination for their conference. With plenty of space, I never felt cramped. In fact, it was a nice change of pace staying in such a well known historic chateau during a conference. This was not your standard conference by any stretch of the imagination. A Commitment to Doing Its Part Perhaps one of the most impressive modern touches of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is its green initiative and commitment to staying local. Their culinary team creates some great food. The conference served local regional dishes that were really good. Some scrumptious thin breakfast maple crepes that I have every time I am in Quebec were my favourite. We last had them at Fairmont Montebello last year on a press trip through the Laurentians and the year prior when traveling with family. Hashtag YUM. The hotel is also committed to helping grow their own boreal forest, maintaining the beauty of the surrounding area. Request a room with a view, unless you are in a suite, which might not have that option. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Has Its Own Special Flair I love the unique vibe of the hotel. It has a resident dog named Daphne, a retired working dog, who is super chill and gorgeous. The hotel also has access to many tours in the lobby, offering guests a chance to experience everything the area has to offer. When combined with the hotel’s flawless marriage of old and new world, it makes for an atmosphere that I’ve never experienced in a hotel before, and I doubt I ever will again. Note – watch out for the swinging doors at front of the entryway. Don’t dawdle in them or you will be hit by the person walking behind you. The halls are long and winding and you can easily get your exercise in walking the hallways or head to the fitness area or pool. Quebec City is amazing and beautiful and it is built for walking. Traffic is minimal on the narrow city streets inside the walled old Quebec area. So explore to your heart’s content. Shopping is nearby and dozens of great restaurants as well as churches. Take the Funiculaire up and down to the lower city if you want. $3 a person. It’s a must try just to say you have done it. The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac was amazing, and I can’t wait to get back there again. With modernized five star rooms and an old world flair, the Fairmont is unique in its atmosphere and presentation. If you’re traveling to the area, I highly suggest it as your hotel. We had one small issue with room cleaning and that was remedied quick after a call to front desk. That was my only service issue. A Few More Facts: The Fairmont just celebrated its 125th anniversary. There are beehives on the roof as part of its commitment to protecting the environment Take a tour of the Fairmont for a fee. This beautiful location was the backdrop for dozens of movies from Catch Me If You Can – with Leo DiCaprio to an Alfred Hitchcock movie as well. This post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. If you book a stay via any of the links here then I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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One of a Kind Saguenay Family Resort with Wolves

Paula — Thu, 24 May 2018 11:26:04 +0000

Waking up to wolves and bison and sled dogs is a bit surreal. But, you need not be a fictional character from a Canadian novel to make this wildlife experience happen. You can entertain your wild side and get spiritual too at a Saguenay Family Resort called Ferme 5 étoiles in Sacre-Couer-Saguenay, Cote Nord Region of Quebec. This family friendly destination in Quebec Nord region is comfortable, unique and open all year long. Recently I stayed there with friends while on a press trip. From the moment we arrived to the second we left we were enamoured with the rescue animals and excited about the prospect of a wolf encounter. Ferme 5 étoiles is a wonderful spot to take family for a relaxing vacation. Many of the rescue animals here have their stories right outside their enclosures to read. There are raccoons orphaned when their mother was run over by a vehicle and two moose that were also orphaned and wouldn’t have survived without help. This family run Saguenay resort is pretty much heaven for a kid and it’s likely to bring out the kid in everyone. It’s a working farm, with indoor area for goats and sheep and all manner of birds, and hares. On arrival you might be greeted by the friendly resident farm dogs living here or the geese that roam freely on the property. You can ask to accompany staff on rounds to feed the animals in the morning too. Camping takes place here in the summer months and there are numerous accommodation options from chalets, to condominiums and yurts. The Sageunay family resort and wildlife observation centre has many trails to walk and explore. Also, Ferme 5 étoiles has the only sugar shack in Saguenay. But of course the Sugar Shack and maple syrup season is extremely short. The accommodations are large and clean. We stayed in a condominium that had a working kitchen, a TV and two bedrooms. One room had two beds and the other had three so you could easily accommodate a family of five at Ferme 5 étoiles. This wonderful little Sageunay family adventure spot and wildlife observation/ sanctuary is just 15 minutes by car from Tadoussac. Take the day and go whale watching in Tadoussac while here, check out the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre too then return for a restful night at Ferme 5 étoiles. A highlight of the stay at Ferme 5 étoiles is the wolf encounter with Jacob. Such a great way to learn about wolves. Jacob is a grey wolf and Luna is an arctic wolf. The farm and animal observation centre has had the wolves for many years. Both are a huge draw for visitors from all over. Be warned though your children must be 12 and over to take part in the wolf encounter. Together we did the wolf encounter as a group and had no idea what to expect. With equal parts excitement and apprehension we sat down together and were given the history and the rundown on what to do and not do when inside the wolf’s habitat. Backs towards the enclosure, in case they jump up on you. No sudden movements and cameras out only when the wolf handler indicates it’s safe. Wolf Facts: Did you know that wolves travel in packs? Okay, so maybe that’s a basic one. How about this: did you know wolves partner for life? The pack chooses one dominant male and one dominant female and only those two breed. They have 1-6 pups per year. When the female is ready to give birth she lactates and the rest of the females in the pack also lactate to feed the babies. 60 % of pups will not make it to the first year. We entered Luna’s habitat first. The gorgeous white arctic wolf is a little intimidating to be honest. Entering an enclosed space with a wolf seems like it could be a once in a lifetime opportunity or a very bad idea. LOL. Luckily Luna and Jacob are friendly and we each have a turn interacting with and petting the wolves. First Luna, who seems smitten with Aeryn Lynne’s shoelaces. Then Jacob. Being able to spend time with wolves in close quarters was something I never expected to be able to do. These animals have such history in Canada and in literature too it’s pretty incredible to be able to get face time with wolves. Although I was honestly a bit worried at first, because wolves are formidable animals, the worries disappeared inside Jacob’s home. He was simply majestic and calm, allowing himself to be petted. I mean, I got to pet a grey wolf. Now, how many people can say that? Other Details: There is a spa on site so book a massage if you wish. Small gift shop on site as well for souvenirs and things you might have forgotten. Restaurant on site offers hearty meals and great service. Food that sticks to your ribs and gives you energy for a day exploring, biking, or whale watching. We had three course meals here both nights when we were visiting. Read Aeryn Lynn’s Post about this visit to the Quebec working farm. If you liked this post don’t forget to read my Tadoussac whale watching post too. I was a guest of Saguenay Lac St Jean and Quebec Maritime while staying in Quebec and I received accommodations, food and activities while visiting in exchange for honest content shared here. This post contains affiliate links to help readers and I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when a purchase is made. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful.

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One of a Kind Walking Feast – Quebec Food Tour

Paula — Tue, 22 May 2018 10:54:46 +0000

This post contains affiliate links as a service to my readers. If you make a purchase via one of the links I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. A Quebec food tour is a wonderful way to learn history and get an insider’s view into where to eat when visiting the city. The food in Quebec City is a curious blend of multiple influences from Europe and aboriginal peoples in Canada. That makes the food scene exciting, unique, and worth investigating, which is exactly what we did recently when visiting Quebec City for a womens’ travel writing conference. From Toronto, Quebec City is a long drive but a decent, relatively affordable flight. After a quick 1 1/2 hour flight we landed at the Quebec City Airport and headed straight to Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Read more on that next week if looking for a spot to stay in the city. The Frontenac was the perfect place to relax for a few nights before branching out to explore both old and new Quebec and then heading on to Quebec Maritime. The day we arrived we had a walking tour of the city booked from 2 to 5 p.m. Over two days we did five walking tours, including a microbrewery tour, a farm and market tour, wellness tour and a Quebec City art and architecture walking tour too. We started with the Quebec Food Tour. Walking Tours of Quebec City are offered straight from the lobby of the Frontenac. You can book on line or on site. We started our tour from the Fairmont and headed to Place Des Armes briefly then meandered through the old city. The nice part of this walking tour is the history given all along the way. When passing by notable spots in the old city and the new, the tour guide pointed out tips on where to eat and what to expect. That makes this type of tour an excellent way to begin your trip to Quebec City. Having an insider’s view on the food scene in the city is useful to any tourist or visitor. Did you know the first cheese was made in Quebec in 1663? Today Quebec still does cheese extremely well. Stop for cheese curds somewhere during your trip. Who Would Like this Quebec Food Tour? Anyone with an interest in learning a bit more about the city will enjoy this introduction to Quebec food and the food scene in Quebec City. People who are new to Quebec City could also get a lot out of it. Our tour guide was friendly, informed and she kept us on time. There were no moments during the tour when I felt bored or disinterested. In fact quite the opposite. Who is this Tour Not For? Well, to be honest I wouldn’t take kids on this Quebec food tour because the samples are less likely to be appreciated by kids. And also there’s a fair bit of alcohol. So, if you are in recovery this is not the tour for you. We did have many people with us who were not drinking. Each one got a special mocktail or juice instead at each stop. I feel like that worked out okay for everyone. The Foods Over the course of the day on the Quebec City Food Tour with Tours Voir Quebec we sampled poutine, which was a first for one of the individuals we were traveling with that day. We tasted wine and a scrumptious pate and maple candy. The maple syrup stop at Délices Érable & Cie was eye opening on its own. Had no idea maple syrup could be used to make that many different foods and treats and mustards too. This maple shop belongs to a maple syrup cooperative so they share various maple syrup products from the region while supporting local businesses. Yum!! The Restaurants of Quebec City Our first restaurant stop featured a small smoked salmon appetizer topped with a blueberry. We also had Caribou, a French Canadian wine that’s peppery and a little like sherry. Caribou is often served warm in winter months and was historically caribou blood. (See photo above brand name Kalibu) History and Unconventional Twists Buckwheat crepes at Billig creperie are a hit accompanied by many great wines and ciders too. At another stop, a sweet potato haddock dumpling with a hint of curry came with my first ever taste of iced cider. Iced cider was strong and not my favourite thing, but that sweet potato haddock appetizer was the star of the show to me. Wine menu is amazing here. The Food in Context While Quebec’s food is a blend that makes sense historically, it seems quirky if taken out of context. Because of the cold climate the variety of foods and meals were likely dense in calories and made with the ingredients found in the area. That diet would suit hunters. Which is why there are so many calorie rich and sometimes sweet foods in Quebec City. International Influences From the French settlers, Quebec had wine and cheese and from the aboriginal people the three sisters: squash, corn and beans. And the British settlers brought beer and gravy. Fish is integral to the diet and culture here, both because the city grew up around the St Lawrence River and because of Catholicism and the church. Historically fish was a staple from eel to haddock and sturgeon and bread is just one of those things present at every meal in Quebec. Quebec City Food Facts: Quebec produces 72 % of the world’s maple syrup. There are beehives on the roof of the Fairmont and a garden too. No pesticides are used in Quebec. 4,000 pounds of honey are produced in Quebec yearly. From Tournebroche (highly in demand so make a reservation) where we sampled a scrumptious meat spread, honey and wine, not all at the same time, to La Buche there’s history, flavour and fun involved at each stop. Tournebroche was originally a rotisserie style restaurant, but now is farm to table. Honey is made on the roof of this restaurant too. Oh and 60 % of the menu is gluten free. Why Do the Quebec City Food Tour? Quebec Food Tour is a chance to savour amazing local foods, while getting exercise and a history lesson. Flavours are varied and give insight into what food is like here and where you should consider making reservations during your stay. One of my favourite tours we did while visiting. Do this when you first arrive in the city. How to Book The Quebec Food tour: Learn more and book the food tour via this link below – > The Quebec City Food Tour was well worth the time. Check it out when you go.

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