Am I still in Canada? One of the most intriguing and beautiful parts of the country is the French speaking Québec City. The country’s oldest city exhibits a huge French influence, with its founders passing on not only just the language but also its food, and in particular, its design. Get lost in Old Québec’s maze of streets exhibiting the best of French architecture and indulge in its signature dish, Poutine, a mischievous blend of fries, cheese curd and gravy.
The only fortified city in North America north of Mexico, you can walk along nearly 5km of city walls and explore the imposing gates that deterred invaders while Québec was under French and English rule. Step back in time and discover the magical Quartier Petit Champlain and Place Royale – the oldest neighbourhood in North America. Attracting one million visitors a year, the magnificent Sainte Anne de Beaupré Shrine has been the continent’s oldest pilgrimage site known as a “place of miracles” for over 350 years.
Visit the natural phenomenon that is Montmorency Falls Park, a spectacular waterfall that stands at 83 metres high (30 metres higher than Niagara Falls), with best views seen from Parc de la Chute-Montmorency. No matter what time of year you visit; in summer when the warm sun’s rays emphasise the colour and character of the buildings, in autumn when you’ll find trees awash in a blaze of colour or in winter, when the snow brings out a Disney-like magic, Quebec should to be high up on your list of Canadian destinations.
