I love traveling to Europe but it's expensive and far. Problem solved! A recent visit to Quebec City had me feeling like I had just stepped off the plane in Europe. It was as if I had visited Paris and a few, small French villages all in a single trip.
About an hour northeast of Montreal, Quebec City is the only walled city north of Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cradle of French civilization in North America. With cobblestone streets, a stunning port and rich history, Quebec City made for a perfect weekend escape! Plus, the city was so charmingly decorated for Christmas, with lights, wreaths, trees, and music. It was a fantastic time to visit.
Walking through the cobblestone streets it is so easy to feel transported back in time! A visit to the Musee de la Place Royal, which explores the history of French America, took us back even further. The museum has a costume area where visitors can try on costumes from the 1700s. We looked ridiculous but what fun!
Dressed up in costume at the Musee de la Place Royal
Highlights from the trip included a ride in the funicular, afternoon wine and cheese at the famous Chateau Frontenac, and tastes of the local cuisine. I tried pigeon, red stag, and elk and they were excellent! Quebec is also known for "poutine", made with french fries, cheese curds and a light gravy but I couldn't bring myself to eat it. I'm more of a ketchup and fries kinda gal.
View of the funicular from the Petit-Champlain district
View from the top of the funicular
It so happened that the Red Bull Crashed Ice race was scheduled for the weekend and the city was buzzing with activity. Described as "an extreme winter sport, which involves downhill skating in an urban environment, on a track which includes steep turns and high vertical drops", the Crashed Ice race course in Quebec City was magnificent. You can view a video of the insanity here.
Set up for the Red Bull Crashed Ice race course inside the city walls
View of the course from the city wall
The course, weaving its way through city, inside and out of the old city wall
If you are interested in visiting, this is a wonderfully informative website. Bundled up and layered in Adea camis and layering top, I truly enjoyed my winter weekend in Quebec City. Now I just need to work on my French...
- Christina
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