Walking in Old Quebec

I love to walk and it’s a good thing because it was our primary mode of transportation in Old Quebec. We parked our car when we arrived on Thursday and picked it up again Monday when we drove north out of town to Fjord-du-Saguenay.

We met up with friends from New Hampshire in Old Quebec and trekked all over.  Quebec City was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain and is one of the oldest cities in North America. Old Quebec is a historic neighborhood in Quebec City.

It’s a charming place: once a gated city with walls surrounding it except along the river where cliffs were the protection in days gone by. It has a very European flavor and is predominantly French speaking. Just being infused with the aura of Old Quebec was intoxicating.

Our B&B was lovely place and the location great. The proprietor was a petite woman with a wonderful accent who wore beautiful dresses. The breakfasts were European: meats and cheeses, breads & croissants, jelly, fruit, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs (with slightly soft yolks) and some cereal available for those who really wanted it. Breakfasts with our friends were leisurely, filled with lively conversation.

Daily we walked down narrow cobblestone streets, taking in all the beautiful sights…colorful window boxes and creative doors, boutiques and bistros, fountains and street musicians and art galleries, indoor and out. We found our way to the Chateau Frontenac along the St. Lawrence Seaway.

We ate our lunches and dinners in charming places: sidewalk cafes and indoor restaurants, with a jazz band accompanying us. One day we had a picnic on Ile d’Orleans with fresh picked strawberries sold at the farm stand along the road, wine and local cheese from a small market and fresh baked baguettes from a small boulange (bakery).

Another day we hiked all around the Plains of Abraham (battlefield turned into beautiful park) and down many steps to walk along the river back to our B&B Later that evening we walked on the wall, around Old Quebec, as a challenge and to see all aspects of this town (and back up many steps). All in all we calculated our mileage was about ten miles that day (with help of a fit-bit and markings on the maps).

Our final walk out of the city gate on Monday morning, to our parked car, was energized by feelings of gratitude for the opportunity to visit this enchanting old city.