Québec
Walking and Hiking in Québec City
Program No. 23165RJ
Take daily hikes across four centuries of history & French Canadian heritage in the urban UNESCO setting of Québec City, the Île d’Orléans & the region’s stunning collection of parks.
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May 25 - May 29, 2025
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5 days
4 nights
8 meals
4B 2L 2D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Quebec City, QC
2
Old Québec City, Architecture & History
Quebec City, QC
3
Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier
Quebec City, QC
4
Île d'Orléans, Montmorency Falls
Quebec City, QC
5
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Quebec City, QC
At a Glance
From the stunning architecture of the Old Town to the historical countryside of the “Nouvelle France” Orléans Island—explore some of the most beautiful and fascinating neighborhoods of Québec City and the surrounding parks and islands. Learn about the city’s world-renowned cuisine, language, architecture and culture as you discover this region with local experts and during free time.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking five to eight miles daily on varied terrain that includes steep hills, stairs, cobblestones, river banks and forest trails with loose dirt and rocks.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Walk through Plaines d'Abraham, a historic urban park in the heart of the city, and learn about the battle that took place there in 1759.
- Hike to Chutes-Montmorency to learn about the geological history of this 272-foot waterfall that descends into the Saint Lawrence River.
- Explore Jacques-Cartier National Park with its beautiful glacial valley in the Laurentian Mountains.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Sylvie Nadeau
Born and raised in Montreal, Sylvie Nadeau loves Quebec's largest city, the province's vibrant, creative multicultural hub, which she has been exploring her whole life on foot, by subway and on her bike. A professional in the travel industry for over 30 years and a recipient of several awards honoring the quality of her work, Sylvie hosts and coordinates the activities of Road Scholar groups with competence and enthusiasm. Her funny French accent and infectious joie de vivre give all her programs and tours a very personal color. A sports enthusiast, Sylvie is offering a new series for active travelers in addition to the many programs she already coordinates, all highlighting the many colors of Quebec as presented by passionate Quebecers dedicated to sharing the richness of their unique Canadian Province.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Sylvie Nadeau
View biography
Born and raised in Montreal, Sylvie Nadeau loves Quebec's largest city, the province's vibrant, creative multicultural hub, which she has been exploring her whole life on foot, by subway and on her bike. A professional in the travel industry for over 30 years and a recipient of several awards honoring the quality of her work, Sylvie hosts and coordinates the activities of Road Scholar groups with competence and enthusiasm. Her funny French accent and infectious joie de vivre give all her programs and tours a very personal color. A sports enthusiast, Sylvie is offering a new series for active travelers in addition to the many programs she already coordinates, all highlighting the many colors of Quebec as presented by passionate Quebecers dedicated to sharing the richness of their unique Canadian Province.
David Mendel
View biography
David Mendel studied at York University in Toronto and the University of Paris before moving to Quebec City in 1976. He completed a Master’s in art history and is undertaking doctoral studies at Laval University. A resident of Quebec’s historic district, David is President of the Foundation of the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity and a member of the Consulting Committee for Religious Architecture of the City of Quebec. His new book, “Quebec: World Heritage City” is the first in a series of four volumes.
Djany Poulin
View biography
Djany Poulin, having studied tourism promotion, has been leading groups in Quebec City for more than 10 years. As a foodie and history enthusiast, she is fascinated about Quebec’s heritage, cultural scene, and local products. Having worked in the outdoor and culinary industries as well, she finds the Quebec area a perfect playground for her passion for hiking, running, and camping. Her experience has brought her to lead international travelers with different specific interests, developing a broad expertise in Quebec City’s history.
Jim Dinan
View biography
Jim Dinan, a Quebec City native versed in both the English and French cultures, has been forever been interested in the layered history of his city, even working at the famed Chateau Frontenac. Alongside a travel expert course, he has surrounded himself with almost every book relating to history, arts, cuisine, politics, and geography relating to the makeup of modern-day Quebec. In his 70s, he continues to enjoy playing hockey recreationally, painting, and drawing.
Suggested Reading List
(4 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Walking and Hiking in Québec City
Program Number: 23165
Montreal & Quebec City Guide – Lonely Planet
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…)
A People’s History of Quebec
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.
Champlain's Dream
In this enthralling biography, acclaimed historian David Hackett Fischer brings to life the remarkable Samuel de Champlain—soldier, spy, master mariner, explorer, cartographer, artist, and Father of New France.
Shadows on the Rock
Set in seventeenth-century Canada, an evocation of North American origins highlights the men and women who struggled to adapt to the new world even as they clung to the one they left behind. The novel covers one year of the lives of Cecile Auclair and her father Euclide, French colonists in Quebec.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
5 days
4 nights
What's Included
8 meals (
4B, 2L, 2D
)
1 expert-led lecture
6 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
4 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Quebec City, QC
Meals:
D
Stay:
Le Monastère des Augustines
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously). Walking up to a mile; Old City terrain.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 5:15 p.m. After you check in to Le Monastère des Augustines and have your room assignment, join us in the conference room to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation. We will gather in the hotel conference room where the Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with a knowledgeable Group Leader and will also feature local experts. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the Monastery featuring healthy cuisine.
Evening:
We will set out with our Study Leader who will provide expert commentary as we stroll through the streets of the Old City to the famous Château Frontenac and form our first impressions of Québec as we begin to explore the city. Old Québec is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “Québec was founded by the French explorer Champlain in the early 17th century. It is the only North American city to have preserved its ramparts, together with the numerous bastions, gates and defensive works which still surround Old Québec. The Upper Town, built on the cliff, has remained the religious and administrative centre, with its churches, convents and other monuments like the Dauphine Redoubt, the Citadel and Château Frontenac. Together with the Lower Town and its ancient districts, it forms an urban ensemble which is one of the best examples of a fortified colonial city.” Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Old Québec City, Architecture & History
Location:
Quebec City, QC
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Le Monastère des Augustines
Activity Note
Walking about 4 miles throughout the day, approximately 3.5 hours total; steep hills, challenging staircases, narrow streets, cobblestones, dirt trail, ascents/descents approximately 300 feet.
Breakfast:
At the Monastery.
Morning:
We will be joined by a local expert who will give us a presentation highlighting the city's foundation and exceptional geographical location as well as present-day social and economic facets. We’ll gain an understanding of how Québec City's history contributed to the creation and development of Canada and why it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We will then set out from the monastery lobby on our first walking field trip that will take us to the Plains of Abraham and back to the Old town. Long before the historical battle of 1759, the area situated just outside the city wall was renowned for the diversity of its natural resources. Heading towards the east, we will climb on the fortifications for an overview of military and civil architecture. In the walled city, we will learn about the various districts marked by the presence of French, English, Scottish, and Irish who left a significant legacy of architecture, economic, and political heritage. As we reach Cap Diamond, we will have an amazing view of Québec’s natural harbor made of three ancient geological formations.
Lunch:
At the Château Frontenac, one of the landmarks of Québec City and the most photographed hotel in the world. It was named in honor of Louis de Buade, Comte de Frontenac, who served as the governor of France’s colony in Canada during the late 17th century.
Afternoon:
With our Group Leader, we will explore the lower part of Old Québec near the river — including Quartier Petit-Champlain — that represents centuries of compromises and struggle between people and geography, to facilitate defense and economic development while protecting the natural bounty of the St. Lawrence. The Quartier Petit-Champlain is the site of Québec’s first port. As one of the city’s original neighborhoods, it has gone through various periods of development, decline, and revitalization. Today, after an extensive restoration project, the district exudes an Old World atmosphere with historical architecture and buildings dating back to the 1600s, narrow streets, artisans and craftsmen, charming boutiques, and much more. Before dinner, we will gather in a local bistro for camaraderie and drinks (on your own).
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. Our Study Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Take this opportunity for independent discovery to see and do what interests you most. Our Group Leader will have suggestions for where you can go and what you can do at the time of the program.
Day
3
Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier
Location:
Quebec City, QC
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Le Monastère des Augustines
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 30 miles each way, approximately 1 hour. Hiking about 5 miles, approximately 4.5 hours; former forest road, uphills/downhills, mostly shady. Elective 1 mile extension hike; narrow trail, stone steps, roots, dirt, rocks.
Breakfast:
At the Monastery.
Morning:
We will board a bus and ride out to the Laurentian massif for a hiking field trip with our Study Leader in one of the most ancient mountain ranges in the world, home of the Parc National de la Jacques Cartier. The main feature of the park is the famous Rivière Jacques Cartier (Jacques Cartier River) put under the protection of the Park Act in 1981. The river has carved its passage down to more than 1,800 feet below the top of the plateau in a valley that existed even before the glacial period. During the hike, we will learn about the ancient trail connecting Quebec to the Saguenay through the floating timbers period that ended in 1978. The Jacques Cartier National Park is an environmental testament to the role of nature and geography in the development of Canada. Focusing on area history before the European arrival up to modern time, we will gain insights into local conservation efforts of this historical salmon river and protected glacial valley.
Lunch:
In the National Park, we’ll have boxed lunches.
Afternoon:
We’ll return to the hotel mid-afternoon. The remainder of the afternoon is free.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to stroll through the Old Town or enjoy coffee and a digestif in a café or bar.
Day
4
Île d'Orléans, Montmorency Falls
Location:
Quebec City, QC
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Le Monastère des Augustines
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 30 miles each way, approximately 1 hour total riding time. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 3 hours; woody area, dirt and mud, overstepping stones, walking on unstable sand.
Breakfast:
At the Monastery.
Morning:
Our next field trip is to the Île d’Orléans (Orleans Island), which has been called “a shining jewel in Quebec’s crown.” It is the largest district under the protection of the Cultural Property Act and the first agricultural settlement of Nouvelle France. We will board a bus, cross the bridge, and ride to the eastern tip of the island. There, we will immerse ourselves in a wide open view over the estuary where fresh and salt water mix. During a leisurely walk along the riverside, we will reach the intertidal area for a closer connection with the mighty Fleuve St-Laurent (Saint Lawrence River). As we explore, we’ll learn about its wildlife and navigation. We will then ride to St-Jean, considered the most beautiful village of the Island, renowned for its typical neoclassic architecture. As we walk through the village, we will be able to appreciate typical Quebec architecture.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in a local bistro.
Afternoon:
Next, we stroll along Montmorency Falls Park to the 272-foot-high Montmorency Fall, a spectacular force of nature rich with military, economic, and cultural history. With commentary by our Group Leader, we will walk on the bridge and enjoy spectacular views of the waterfall, the river, and surroundings.
Dinner:
At a renowned restaurant in Old Québec noted for its local “farm to table” gastronomy. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy a last evening together, step out to see another spot in the city, sip an after dinner drink at a favorite café, or just relax. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
5
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Quebec City, QC
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Monastery check-out by 12:00 Noon.
Breakfast:
At the Monastery. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
8 Meals
4 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
2 Dinners
LODGING
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Participant Reviews
Based on 44 Reviews
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My review, although way overdue is that the trip was wonderful. I have been telling people about it ever since I got back. Great people, great leaders, beautiful area. Good food. It was just a ton of fun. I'm looking forward to another Road Scholar trip next year. Maybe acadia.
— Review left October 23, 2024
Everything about this trip far exceeded my expectations! It was thrilling to be in such a French speaking environment which I worried would be difficult but it really wasn’t! The accommodation in and of itself was a very unique and sacred space. I will never forget it!
Everyone in my group, including our group leader, lecturer, and guides made the entire trip fun, memorable and thought provoking. Also , I have made some new friends who I hope to see again!
I love how Road Scholar is always teaching us while at the same time providing physical and mental stimulation!
I often mention Road Scholar in my everyday life. They are truly the best way to travel!
— Review left October 22, 2024
What an amazing trip! My first solo vacation, and the guides along with the other travelers were so warm, welcoming, and fun. The countryside was stunning, and the city had a charming European vibe. It exceeded all my expectations—truly a wonderful experience.
— Review left October 12, 2024
This is a trip not to be missed. We were fortunate to go during peak leaf season which enhanced our enjoyment, Sylvie is a uniquely talented leader. She shares her vast knowledge about Quebec at every turn. She is warm, funny, organized and passionate about Quebec.
— Review left October 11, 2024
This was my first Road Scholar trip and I absolutely loved it. Quebec City is like no other city in North America and I fell in love with it. As a first-time solo traveler, I found it easy to connect with other travelers, both solos and couples. I loved the combination of historical tours with walks in nature outside the city. Staying in the monastery in the authentic rooms was a highlight and I recommend it. The food there was wonderful, and there were so many great restaurants to try. My only regret is that I didn't arrive earlier or stay for an extra day. I am so ecstatic that I had a great time, and I cannot wait until my next RoadScholar trip.
— Review left September 23, 2024
This trip was excellent in every way: organization, variety of walks, hikes and adventures, comfort and cleanliness of the accommodations, quality and variety of the food, knowledge and interpersonal skills of the leader, and friendliness and compatibility of group participants. Even the weather was perfect, though RS was not responsible for this.
— Review left September 8, 2024
As my first Road Scholar trip those to follow will have an extremely high bar to master! Silvie Naudeau is a tour guide extraordinaire! The choices for planning were exquisite from the locally sourced and healthy meals to the shared history to the level of walking and hiking and free time! All dovetailed so intelligently and inclusively that it completely flowed and presented a rich and comprehensive story of Quebec.
It was so well coordinated that we were delightfully introduced to the city the very first night inspiring confidence when left on our own to explore personal interests. Silvie was consistently cognizant of the tour members as a group as well as individually, listening to questions, responses and scanning well being. She makes it all easy for each traveler and encourages fun and comfort with her laughter and beautiful smiles.
Whatever is the highest rating for an RS Guide I say: Double It, Please!
With Sincerity,
Susan
— Review left September 6, 2024
This was my first Road Scholar tour. It was terrific. The accommodation at the Monastery des Augustines was the most unusual accommodation I have ever stayed at. The mixture of modern and history of the Sisters were evident throughout the Monastery. I stayed in an authentic room with no TV, no phone and the shared bathroom down the hall. It worked very well. The food at the Monastery was very good. Our tourguide, Djany, was very personable. Her French/English was excellent and she just went above and beyond to make our tour enjoyable. She stopped the bus on the last day on the Ile d'Orleans to bring us fresh fruit of blackberries, strawberries and raspberries. I had a birthday while on the tour and she brought me a small bottle of Canadian maple syrup. Her special touch made the entire tour memorable. I highly recommend it.
— Review left August 18, 2024
For those like "active" walking trips, I highly recommend this walking tour of Quebec City and surrounding area. Just the right combination of city walking and getting out in nature. Accommodations are conveniently located within walking distance of many of the historical and cutural sites you will want to visit.
— Review left August 17, 2024
Quebec City is a totally neat place to visit. We had the best food on this trip of any of my 10 or so RS trips. The Monastery has fabulous breakfasts and nice rooms (I stayed in one of the 'authentic' rooms - they DO have a sink!!!). Staff there very helpful. You can apply for a free metro (bus) pass after a 3 day stay. Nice !
Hikes were not difficult; the hike along the Rivière Jacques Cartier had some ups and downs. THe 'box' lunch that day was to die for. Walking on cobblestones was maybe the hardest walking. The visit to Île d'Orléans was my favorite day.
I stayed in the hotel an extra day and walked down to Bois-de-Coulonge which is a very nice park.
QC is a popular tourist town.
QC has street musicians and some streets are blocked off after 11 am. Very nice !
— Review left July 30, 2024
Absolutely loved it - Quebec was beautiful. Everyone I interacted with was kind and patient with the language barrier. The food was fantastic. Many single women - fit right in - seemed like everyone was welcoming.
— Review left July 28, 2024
Fabulous short active program for those who like to get 20,000 steps per day!
wonderful, perfect group leader. interesting well located accommodation
— Review left July 23, 2024
Wonderful opportunity to see and experience historical Quebec City with a small group, and take a couple excursions into the lovely surrounding countryside. I am so glad I took this trip!
— Review left July 20, 2024
I highly recommend the Walking & Hiking in Quebec City trip. A wonderful historic city with a variety of activities and European charm. This trip covers both the city and surrounding natural beauty.
— Review left July 20, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this program in that I wish it were longer. Sylvie Nadeau and the other instructor and guides were awesome.
— Review left June 28, 2024
Overall:
Trip was wonderful
Our guide was informative, personable, funny, kind, approachable, accessible, and everything you can ask for on a trip like this.
Quebec City is a very accessible area to explore. I found myself wanting to see more and learn about it.
Would like to see:
More museums and cultural items on the agenda
Only one non-city hiking event; the first one was not that informative or visually exciting and was too long
— Review left June 22, 2024
I enjoyed my time in Quebec City. Our guide, Sylvie, was awesome. The accommodations at the Monastery were clean and the experience was unique. I loved it. My only regret is that I did not add a day or two onto my time there to visit one or more of the local museums.
— Review left June 16, 2024
The Quebec City Walking and Hiking Tour was my first Road Scholar trip, and will not be my last. Our group leader, Sylvie, was a wonderful facilitator. She and the guides made our trip interesting, fun and were flexible when weather affected our plans. I learned a lot, and so enjoyed my fellow travelers.
— Review left June 13, 2024
As a first time solo traveler, I was anxious about what to expect. This Road Scholar trip exceeded all of my expecations. Flight arrangements, lodging, meals, staff and intinerary were all top notch. I also enjoyed forging new friendships with enthusiastic people who like to learn about the world. While this was my first Road Scholar trip, it will definitely not be my last!
— Review left June 8, 2024
Quebec City Walking and Hiking was an excellent program to learn and explore around Quebec City and the surrounding countryside. The leader of the program, Sylvie Nadeau is excellent in how she creates a comfortable group atmosphere to meet and connect with our fellow travelers. I would highly recommend this program whether you attend with a friend, partner, spouse or solo. Thank you Road Scholar and Sylvie I had an excellent first time experience and will be looking to participate in another Road Scholar program in the future.
— Review left May 31, 2024
Amazing program! Loved every minute. Quebec City just drips with charm. The Fall colors on our hikes outside the city were stunning. Just go!
— Review left October 14, 2023
Beautiful city and countryside. Learned so much about the history of the city, in other programs that I’ve attended the lectures tended to be boring…not this one. The stay at the Monestare des Augustine was fantastic, the history of the Monestary, the food, the kindness of the staff, the mission of healing and wholeness made for a fantastic trip.
— Review left October 13, 2023
I highly recommend participating in this program. The leader was amazing -- expert, enthusiastic, and fun. The walks and hikes were beautiful and complimented each other well. I learned a lot about Quebec City and the surrounding area while having a wonderful time.
— Review left September 16, 2023
This was amazing. Learned a lot, walked a lot and saw amazing things.
— Review left September 14, 2023
Quebec City is a beautiful place and has a lot to offer. The hiking is great and the country in this province is gorgeous. I learned so much on this trip and hope to return one day. If you are considering this program, I encourage you to add on a day or two at the end so you can visit any areas that you may not have had time to see. This city is one that has so many delightful nooks and crannies that take time to explore. Do not pass it up!
— Review left September 1, 2023
This is a moderate hiking program mixed with a walking tour of the beautiful Quebec City. It is just the right balance.
— Review left August 19, 2023
Walking, Hiking Tour of Quebec City with Sylvie Nadeu was amazing, a must do!
— Review left July 31, 2023
Excellent!
— Review left July 30, 2023
Beautiful city with a fascinating history. Food, (delicious), for both the mind and the body. Wonderfully organized, with a terrific guide.
— Review left July 3, 2023
Great short break with superior leader!
— Review left June 20, 2023
Excellent venue and a chance to see the Pope at no extra charge.
— Review left December 21, 2022
Good Trip - Group generally friendly
— Review left November 16, 2022
This was a unique trip. The authentic accommodations at the Monastere des Augustines were fabulous, comfortable, and historic. What a treat to live in that unique setting for a few days. The combination of historic tours of Old Quebec and hiking in the beautiful autumn forests outside the city was delightful. Our leader, Sylvie, as over-the-top wonderful--knowledgeable, fun, and friendly.
— Review left November 8, 2022
The height of the Fall colors and a nip in the air. A walk around Quebec City and its European-like neighborhoods, with a fabulous lunch at the famous Frontenac Hotel - good food, scenery, ambience, people. An invigorating hike through a yellow birch forest along a large river. A stroll through a forest with red maples and a couple of dogs, and then along the shore, eating lunch in the sunshine at a farm. The leader (Sylvie) was very approachable and easy going, quite organized. I combined this program with a similarly structured one in Montreal back-to-back (connected by a train ride), and had a wonderful and varied vacation.
— Review left October 21, 2022
Stretch your brain and your legs while exploring this historic area. Fabulous exploration of Quebec City area!
— Review left September 11, 2022
My husband and I wanted to get back to traveling after two years of Covid; however, we also wanted to feel safe and secure in the experience. We decided to take a train (Via Canada) to Quebec City, which was a great choice because the train has excellent Covid protocols. AND we decided on this walking/hiking in Quebec City (and beyond) Road Scholar tour as our most safe option (lots and lots of time outside) to a North American city that had a European flair. It was a fantastic trip! Our group leader (there were 17 of us on the trip), Sylvie, is fantastic! She has a gift for making everyone feel welcome and for keeping energy levels up. She clearly loves Quebec City (and, now, so do we!) and was proud to introduce the city to us. There was an excellent balance between lectures/learning and hikes around the city as well as to the Jacques Cartier National Park (fantastic!) and Orleans Island. Our weather was spectacular (sunny, warm, breezy) until the last full day, when it rained quite a bit in the morning/early afternoon (we boldly hiked through the rain) and then cleared enough for a trip to Montmorency Falls. Bring a raincoat and waterproof hiking boots because hiking trips do not stop for wet weather! It was an adventure. I highly recommend this tour with Road Scholar, particularly with Sylvie leading the way.
— Review left August 20, 2022
This program provided the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Quebec, walk and hike, along with free time to explore on our own.
— Review left August 2, 2022
I just completed the Walking and Hiking in Quebec City! Wow! Far surpassed my expectations on my first RS trip. The stay in the first-class monastery was so amazing. We stayed in an "Authentic" room which added to the experience (the shared bathrooms are individual toilet and shower and are always open and incredibly clean). And the BEDDING; like a cloud. Our guide, Sylvie, was so knowledgeable, genuine and fun! The activity level was accurate and I learned so much about history. I know believe Quebec City is one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
— Review left June 19, 2022
I recently went on a spirited walking/hiking tour of Quebec City and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I stayed at the St. Augustine Monastery in an authentic room and the experience was wonderful and very nostalgic. Don't let the 'shared' bathrooms scare you off from experiencing the authentic rooms. There are approximately 6 private bathrooms down the hall. They just aren't in your room. This is similar to staying in dorms in college, yet more private. I would choose this same experience of staying in an authentic room again! Loved the entire trip!
— Review left June 11, 2022
Great program if you only have 4 nights to spend in the area and want some variety of experience. It hits the historical, geographical, and cultural highlights within Old Quebec City, plus some great field trips to nearby natural wonders like Montmorency Falls and beautiful forest/coastal hikes. Adequate time for individual exploration, too.
— Review left September 2, 2019
I enjoyed the program. The leaders are very knowledgeable about Quebec City. The Monastery of St Augustine was a very relaxing place to recoup from the winter cold and had a delightful and healthy meal to start our day. I thought there would be more time and places for
interaction between the travelers. This was a winter event and maybe that dampened the ability to meet others after the days events. I hope this Road Scholar travel program continues to offer the beauty of winter in a fantastic city.
— Review left March 9, 2019
This was an amazing winter adventure. The trip was well organized. The monastery was very relaxing, rooms were lovely and silent breakfast a real treat. A most comfortable bed with a lovely bath. I loved the dormer windows.
Pluses: Dog sledding, walking, history, knowledgeable guides,
Things to consider: ways to establish a bit more group cohesiveness (other trips had a common meeting area or small room to gather together in the evenings), the final meal at the fondue restaurant was not well organized.. we were too large of a group for the restaurant to handle efficiently)
Consider adding an additional day with options for group members to see the city.
I'd recommend this trip to anyone
— Review left March 3, 2019
Fantastic trip, 5 stars.
1. The guides, Judith and Sylvie, were excellent. They provided so much information on the history of the area, as well as the built and natural environment. They were also very good about explaining the best way to dress for the very cold weather. And they were flexible, able to adapt to weather related obstacles (snow cleaning) and crowds. They were engaged, fun, and funny.
2. The program had a good progression of activities. The first evening we had a short walk around the neighborhood of our hotel, which served as an introduction to the area. The next day was a long walk (at least 5 miles) beginning with the Plains of Abraham and military history, and working our way back into the old part of the city. Although the day was long, the pace was easy. This was followed with a more restful day, when we took a bus to Montmarcy Falls and walked around the areas below and above the falls. Then to lunch and the Ice Hotel. The final day was another more active day, dog sledding (definitely the highlight) and an afternoon on our own.
3. Our hotel - an old monastary - was beautiful. Rooms were comfortable, and the hotel was close to many good shops and restaurants.
4. The only downside was that the tour was not long enough for me. An additional day, either as part of the tour or as an add-on, would have been welcome. I would have loved to have done some snowshoeing, or xc-skiing, or even ice boating.
— Review left February 23, 2019
I cannot imagine anything more fun than this trip. Judith and Sylvie were wonderful and the dog sledding in particular was amazing.
— Review left February 22, 2019