Witness the old-world charm and European roots of Quebec City as you stroll down its cobblestone streets

Scout for the elusive beluga whale and other marine mammals in the krill-rich waters of the St. Lawrence River

Hike within the wondrous Charlevoix Crater, which spans 34 miles in diameter and was formed by a stray meteorite, and learn about the historic event that shaped the region

Taste the agricultural bounty that fuels Charlevoix’s emerging farm-to-table movement

Spend an unforgettable night in the Ice Hotel!

INCLUSIONS

*All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners

*Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders

*Snacks and beverages between meals

*Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips

*Van shuttles to support a variety of route options

*Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information

*Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner

*All gratuities at hotels and restaurants

*Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner

*Park and other entry fees Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner Select coach transfers Baggage transfers and porterage

DAYS 1-3

In the wondrous Charlevoix region, explore the mighty St. Lawrence River where the plains meet the mountains. Wind through a tranquil landscape of coastal marshes and grasslands and into the surrounding foothills for stunning views of the expansive river below. From the beautifully preserved hamlet of St-Joseph-de-la-Rive, ferry to Isle-aux-Coudres with an abundance of stone cottages, historic churches and picturesque farmland. Stop at Les Moulins, whose early 19th-century stone windmill and watermill still churn out wheat and buckwheat flours • Ride through mixed pine forest woodlands, catching glimpses of bucolic Baie-St-Paul. Indulge in a spa treatment at our unique hotel. Enjoy meals featuring fresh ingredients from nearby farms and dine at charming restaurants to savor the famous Charlevoix gastronomy.

DAYS 4-6

Enjoy a tour of one of Quebec's oldest routes, Avenue Royale, past old colonial houses and the magnificent Basilique de Saint-Anne. Take in the impressive site of the 270-foot Montmorency Falls before riding to enchanting Quebec City. Take in views of the skyline as you return to Quebec City via ferry. Explore the Plains of Abraham, site of a famous 1759 battle. Meander through old Quebec City on a historical walking tour. This afternoon, transfer to Valcartier for an overnight stay at the Ice Hotel.

DAY 7

After lunch, depart the Ice Hotel to return to Quebec City.

The first well-known European explorer to visit what is now known as Québec was Jacques Cartier who began exploring the region in 1535. Seventy-three years later, the colony of New France was established by Samuel de Champlain. Over the next four hundred years, the colony and surrounding regions have been embroiled in battles, large and small, scandals, triumphs, and disappointments.

Champlain’s Dream by David Hackett Fischer: This tome digs into the life of Samuel de Champlain, the founder of New France (now Québec City).

Montcalm & Wolfe: Two Men Who Forever Changed the Course of Canadian History by Roch Carrier: Quite possibly one of the best novels on Generals Montcalm and Wolfe, and the battle of 1759.

Along a River: The First French-Canadian Women by Jan Noel: The first French-Canadian women were strong and fierce and absolutely fantastic. These women were vital to the colony’s survival, they helped shaped Québec into the city and province that it is today.

Hélène’s World: Hélène Desportes of Seventeenth-Century Quebec by Susan McNelley.

Québec Under Siege: French Eye-Witness Accounts from the Campaign of 1759