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Christmas at the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec

Program Number: 19228RJ
Start and End Dates:
12/22/2013 - 12/26/2013;
Duration: 4 nights
Location: Quebec City, Quebec
Price starting at: $1,499.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Holidays
Meals: 9; 4 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian; Gluten Free    

In the narrow streets, the sound of hooves on snowy cobbles keeps time as you peer out from your carriage at a world of decorated windows lit warmly against the winter air. Christmas approaches in Quebec City, a 400-year-old gem of Old World ambiance right here in North America where you’ll enjoy four nights of yuletide learning. The city's most beloved landmark, the Chateau Frontenac, is your home as you discover traditional tastes of the season like "tourtière" meat pie and local delicacies made from maple, a fundamental Quebec ingredient.




Highlights

• Experience Quebecois Christmas music during a private concert in a parish church and in the streets with locals caroling door to door.
• Indulge in perhaps the grandest Christmas tradition in Québec City, the annual dinner-dance at the Chateau Frontenac.
• Study Inuit art at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles daily over uneven terrain, sometimes snow covered. Standing, stairs and cobblestones.




Quebec City

The towers and turrets of Chateau Frontenac dominate the skyline of this 400-year-old walled city on the St. Lawrence River, the only fortified city north of Mexico. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage City, Canada’s oldest city is known and loved for its European charms and narrow, cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old homes.
Accommodations
The legendary Chateau Frontenac.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Andree Girard
Andrée Girard has been an active figure on the arts scene in Québec and in Canada for over 25 years. She worked as a broadcaster for CBC radio and television before becoming programming director for CBC French radio’s Chaîne culturelle for several years. She was also a founding member and director of the Conseil québécois de la musique. Over the course of her career, she has been associated with the creation of the Opus Prize, as well as the development of the Canadian Conference of the Arts.
 
Sylvain Lacoursiere
Sylvain Lacoursière is a journalist, teacher and devoted history buff, in addition to his role as a Road Scholar instructor. With degrees in journalism and Canadian history, he has worked on three Quebec history television series and as a journalist in several media outlets. In the past 13 years, Sylvain has led more than 1,700 educational groups through the fascinating city of Montreal. Sylvain teaches history, tourism and German at the college level.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
  Quebec City, QC 4 nights
 Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Standing high on a bluff overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of Old Québec. Offering exquisite dining opportunities, superior meeting facilities and a distinctive charm, this stately hotel stands above historic Old Québec, a United Nations World Heritage Site. Easy walking access to all of the wonderful sites and experiences that Old Québec has to offer. Your stay at this renovated historic hotel guarantees you a memorable and inspiring stay in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
  Contact info: 1 rue des Carrières
Quebec, QC G1R 4P5 Canada
phone: 866-540-4460
web: www.fairmont.com/frontenac
  Room amenities: Air-conditioning, alarm clock-radio, cable television, high speed internet connection, Coffee/Tea maker,Hair dryer, iron and ironing board, telephone equipped with voice-mail and cordless phone.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Please call for current rates Call directly at the hotel or book online and request the senior discount.
  Check in time: 4:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Please call for current rates Call directly at the hotel or book online and request the senior discount.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
4:00pm Hotel Check-In Time. 5:30pm Meet in the hotel lobby for Road Scholar registration. You will be staying at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends after breakfast. Room check out 12:00 pm. You will be staying at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. A passport is required for all air travel to/from Canada. On June 1, 2009, a new US law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) will require those traveling to/from the United States by land and sea to also have a passport or other appropriate secure document (NEXUS card). Passport requirements are subject to change. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html
  Parking availability:
Indoor self-parking: $26 CAD per 24-hour period, including in and out privileges.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Quebec City, QC
  Nearest city or town:  Quebec City
  Nearest highway: Highway 20 (Trans Canada) and Highway 40
  Nearest airport:  Jean Lesage International Airport - Quebec City
  From End of Program
  Location: Quebec City, QC
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Quebec City

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$38 cost can be shared
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

25 minutes 
 

Quebec city

 

From Bus Terminal

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$8.00 cost can be shared
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

7-8 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

1 miles
 

Quebec city

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$8.00 cost can be shared
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

7-8 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

1 miles
   

Via Rail offers service to Quebec City. 888 842-7245. www.viarail.ca
 
Driving Directions
  From Maine to Quebec City -Château Frontenac From Maine, route 201 to Quebec border, becomes 173 north at the border 173 north on to fwy 73 north to St-Lawrence river, crossing on Pierre Laporte suspension bridge. 0.6 mile after bridge, 3rd exit, number 134-E, for Boulevard Laurier Merge on Laurier east, becomes Chemin St-Louis, than Grande Allée, than rue St-Louis (inside Old City).Fairmont le Château Frontenac is the last building on the right hand side.
  From Montreal to Quebec City Château Frontenac Quebec City is 151 miles east of Montreal. From Montreal take Highway 20 East to Quebec City to Pierre Laporte bridge. Exit on blvd. Laurier wich changes name to Chemin St-Louis and again to Garnde-Allee and finally Rue St-Louis (5 miles ride). Go underneath the gate (fortifications wall), Château Frontenac is at the end of Rue st-Louis , on the right-hand side.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Independent Arrivals & Check-In, Registration & Orientation, Introduction to Québec City & Christmas Traditions
(Sunday, December 22)
   
 Afternoon: Following your independent arrival, HOTEL CHECK-IN begins at 4:00pm. Get your room assignment then at 5:30pm come over to the Road Scholar desk in the lobby to register with the program staff and pick up your arrival packet containing the most up-to-date schedule of program activities and general information on your stay.
Shortly thereafter, we’ll gather for an ORIENTATION session for introductions, to review the program schedule, note any updates, review roles and responsibilities, address safety issues, and answer any questions you may have. PRESENTATION: A talk about the Frontenac will reveal its history — even some secrets! — as well as its role in Québec’s economic and social development and influence in the development of winter sports.
 Dinner: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in the heart of Old Québec, a 5-minute walk from the Château Frontenac. After dinner, stroll with your coordinator through the streets of the Old City to the famous Terrasse Dufferin to form your first impressions of Quebec and discover the city or return to the hotel after dinner.
   
Accommodations: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Old Québec City: History, Architecture and the Spirit of Christmas
(Monday, December 23)
   
 Breakfast: We'll enjoy a breakfast buffet in the restaurant at the Frontenac with a wide variety of options amid opulent seasonal surroundings. The Chateau embraces its role as the “star” atop the city’s figurative Christmas tree with a beautiful display of decorations and a wonderful sense of revelry and bonhomie.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: A local expert will tell you about the history of Québec City — the birthplace of French America and the first settlement in Canada. You’ll learn how winter has shaped the military and political destiny of Québec, how residents deal with it in their daily lives, and get an overview of Québecois culture and Christmas traditions.
This program is based at one of the world’s most historic and charming hotels, in one of the world’s most historic and charming cities, within easy walking distance to all that Old Québec has to offer. Part of the learning experience will consist of delighting in the city itself decked out in a magical array of seasonal lights and decorations. The spirit of Christmas radiates throughout Québec City, and Christmas at the Château Frontenac is truly unique and special. FIELD TRIP: Led by our expert historian-guide, explore the neighborhood surrounding the Château Frontenac. We’ll walk along narrow streets to illustrious monuments and significant buildings that eloquently illustrate aspects of the city's history and architecture. The spirit of Christmas is all around you, from exquisitely decorated storefronts to beautifully-lit cobbled alleys — a wondrous scene to behold.
Our walking field trip concludes at the Musée de la Civilisation (Museum of Civilization) in the Old Port.
 Lunch: Lunch at the café of the Musée de la Civilisation. In addition to the appetizing food, you'll have a magnificent view of the mighty St. Lawrence River.
 Afternoon: FREE AFTERNOON: You may stay to examine the museum's fascinating exhibits or explore more of what the area has to offer, from the charming Christmas market featuring local flavors to a popular street known for its art galleries and antiques. Your packet will include a list of suggestions and our guide will be happy to answer your questions.
 Dinner: We’ll dine out to savor traditional food of Québec at the renowned restaurant Aux Anciens Canadiens, located in the oldest house in the city (1675). Its thick walls, solid joints, marvelous wainscoting and recessed cupboards are characteristic of the houses constructed during that era. Specialties of the house include a "tourtière" meat pie and an exquisite maple dessert.
 Evening: PRIVATE CONCERT: End the day with classical musicians who've prepared a program of classical and seasonal music just for you.
   
Accommodations: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Christmas Eve: National Museum of Fine Arts, Pageantry & Music
(Tuesday, December 24)
   
 Breakfast: We'll enjoy a breakfast buffet in the restaurant Cafe de la Terrasse at the Frontenac with a wide variety of options amid opulent seasonal surroundings.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (National Museum of Fine Arts). The museum is located in Battlefields Park, also known as the Plains of Abraham, a site of exceptional beauty and significance in Canadian history. You’ll hear about the fascinating history of the museum itself — comprising three buildings, styles, and periods — and of course its impressive collections including 35,000 works by 4,000 artists, dating from the 17th Century to the present, featuring an extraordinary collection of Inuit pieces from throughout the Canadian Arctic.
 Lunch: Another favorite local tradition is Onion soup for lunch. We’ll dine at a Brasserie Française in a cheerful ambiance.
 Afternoon: Let's talk about it. Quebec today - Regroup before dinner with your coordinators, Andree and Sylvie who will situate you more firmly in the social universe of present day Quebec to help you understand its health and educational systems, its nationalist leanings and the challenges that lie ahead for the province. It's a meeting that will surely spark some rewarding discussions among participants.
 Dinner: Dinner is on your own, allowing you to explore the multitude of Quebec City eateries. Our coordinator will offer guidance and suggestions. For this dinner, a reservation will be made by Sylvie in one of Quebec's fine restaurants (5 minutes walk from the hotel) for anyone who wishes to accompany her. (optional)
 Evening: EXTRACURRICULAR: You have two options this evening if you wish to attend a traditional Christmas Eve service full of liturgical pageantry and music. Both the Basilica of Notre Dame (Catholic) and the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (Anglican) inhabit magnificent historic buildings. Immerse yourself in the joyful sounds of voices and organ for an evening to remember.
   
Accommodations: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Christmas Day Traditions: Caleche Ride, Rue du Petit-Champlain, Dinner-Dance at the Frontenac
(Wednesday, December 25)
   
 Breakfast: Start the day with a wonderful breakfast buffet in a private room at the Château Frontenac.
 Morning: EXCURSION: Christmas continues with a festive ride in an authentic calèche (horse-drawn carriage). From your cozy seat, get a different perspective on North America’s only walled city including the beautiful 19th Century Parliament building.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own. Suggestions will be made. For this lunch, a reservation will be made by Sylvie to a local Bistro (5 minutes walk from the hotel) for anyone who wishes to accompany her. (optional)
 Afternoon: EXCURSION: Walking is key to appreciating all Old Québec has to offer. To absorb more of the city’s holiday spirit, we’ll stroll along cobblestoned Rue du Petit-Champlain in the lower town, named for Samuel de Champlain who founded Quebec City in 1608. You might imagine yourself in Old France thanks to the beautifully preserved architectural character and charm of North America’s oldest commercial district. You’ll feel as if you’re walking through history — no cars allowed! — as you look into distinctive boutiques and little artisan shops in old stone or half-timbered buildings while carolers on street corners sing traditional Christmas favorites.
 Dinner: CHRISTMAS DINNER-DANCE: Perhaps the grandest Christmas tradition in Québec City is the annual dinner-dance at the Chateau Frontenac — the most photographed grand hotel in the world and a proud symbol of the city. The centerpiece is a semi-formal, six-course dinner in the ballroom.
 Evening: Along with the fine cuisine, you're welcome to join in the dancing as the band plays contemporary popular music. Complete your Christmas Day festivities with this celebratory feast in a setting that is trés magnifique! Truly an unforgettable experience.
   
Accommodations: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Farewell Breakfast, Program Concludes, Independent Departures
(Thursday, December 26)
   
 Breakfast: Say farewell to Québec and Christmas at the Frontenac as we gather for one more breakfast buffet in the restaurant. This is the time to share your fondest memories of the program with new-found friends. Au revoir!
The program concludes with breakfast. Hotel check-out is 12:00 Noon.
We hope you have enjoyed this very special program and have gained an appreciation for the Christmas traditions of Old Québec and its grandest and most historic hotel. Please join us for other rewarding Road Scholar programs in the future, and best wishes for all your journeys!
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Bury your dead


Author: Louise Penny


Description: BURY YOUR DEAD has come out to some spectacular results - hitting the extended New York Times bestseller list, as well as the USA Today list, and bestseller lists in Canada! And it has been named one of the Top Ten Mysteries/Thrillers of 2010 by Amazon! This sixth Gamache mystery is set partly in the tiny fictional (and oddly murderous) village of Three Pines, in Quebecs Eastern Townships. But most of the action takes place in Quebec City. A vibrant, sophisticated fortress city, which lives in the present but guards its past. it's February and bitterly cold in Quebec City. But Chief Inspector Gamache barely notices. He's nearly consumed with grief and guilt over a police action he led - and the mistakes he made. He spends his time with his now-retired mentor, and in the peaceful library of the Literary and Historical Society. A bastien of the dwindling English population. But if Gamache thought death was finished with him, he was wrong. The body of a celebrated eccentric is found in the Lit and His, and Gamache is drawn again into hunting a murderer. The victim is an amateur archeologist who was monomaniacal in his pursuit. He had spent his life trying to find the body of Samuel de Champlain. This is the great mystery that has haunted Quebec for centuries. Where is Champlain? The founder of Quebec died 400 years ago. And while the burial places of nuns and farmers and minor functionaries of the time are known, no one knows what became of the Father of Quebec. How could this be? As Chief Inspector Gamache digs through the crime and the venerable old city it becomes clear the murder is rooted in this 400 year old mystery, and in people long dead. But perhaps not buried. It also becomes clear to the Chief Inspector that to find the truth he needs to confront his own ghosts, and bury his own dead. Enjoy!



A People’s History of Quebec


Author: Jacques Lacoursière


Description: A People’s History of Quebec is a lively guide to a little-known part of North American history. It tells of the settlement of the St. Lawrence Valley, but also of the Montreal and Quebec-based explorers and traders who travelled, mapped, and inhabited most of North America, and embrothered the peoples they met.



A short history of Quebec


Author: John Alexander Dickinson and Brian J Young


Description: A Canadian classic, A Short History of Quebec offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the province from the pre-contact native period to present-day constitutional struggles. The authors bring a refreshing perspective to the history of Quebec, focusing on the social and economic development of the region and its diverse peoples.



Montreal & Quebec City Guide – Lonely Planet


Author: Montréal-based author


Description: Montréal and Québec City really serve it up. You've got old-world grandeur, new-world sensibilities and big-city charms - there's enough neighbourhoods, restaurants and festivals to keep you mon-dieu'ing for months. This guide, penned by a Montréal-based author, gets you straight to the action. Pick & Mix: buy and download individual chapters from this book You could download free: Introducing Montreal (Very interesting…)





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