QUÉBEC

Welcome to the Woodcarver Capital of Québec

Located in Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, the "World Capital of Sculpture and Crafts", is the Musée des Anciens Canadiens. This prestigious museum showcases Québec’s ancient woodcarving tradition in the largest interpretive centre in America. Learn about the techniques and the various tools used to create the works of art on display. Be sure to visit the gift shop for one-of-a-kind objects and sculptures.

Explore Québec’s Geological Icons

Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé on the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula offers stunning views, peaceful forests, meadow landscapes, and steep cliffs that give way to the sea. The Park is designated into sectors; the historic Charles-Robin sector which is located in the village of Percé, the marine sector, and Bonaventure Island.

Enjoy a boat cruise near Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island.  Percé Rock is an amazing geological formation. A best-known Canadian landmark, this 88m-high, 475m-long chunk of rusty limestone contains 150 fossil species. In 1603 Samuel de Champlain gave the rock its name because it appeared to be pierced by a giant needle. That famous piercing created one of the world’s largest natural arches located in water. Lead by a knowledgeable interpreter, the boat ride gives visitors a chance to view the shorelines and rock faces from the water.

Once on Bonaventure Island, tour historic homes, learn about the cod fishing history, or hike on four trails that showcase the park’s outstanding flora and fauna. Home to the largest colony of northern gannets in North America, be amazed by the species of seabirds that come to the park to breed.

Gaspésie Fishing Story Brought to Life

The fishing industry has played an important role in the lives of many Gaspé residence. The Banc-de-Pêche-de-Paspébiac Historic Site features 11 outstanding period buildings including the largest wooden structure in North America, built between 1838 to 1840. During your guided tour, learn about the history and the daily routines of fishermen and fishing station workers during the 18th and 19th centuries.  Recognized for both its architecture and its social, economic, and historical importance in the cod fisheries, the fishing bank is a designated National Historic Site of Canada.

This is Where the Whales Play

In the North Shore region of Québec, is the maritime crossroads of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord. The warm freshwater of the Saguenay River meets the cold saltwater of the St. Lawrence, pulling in massive amounts of krill, a favourite menu item of whales. During the ferry crossing to Saint Simeon, be on the lookout for the telltale tuft of water exploding above the horizon as whales surface to breathe.

Time in Québec City

Get acquainted with this magical city with a guided tour. After familiarizing yourself with your centrally located hotel, meander the cobblestone streets wandering in and out of shops and boutiques. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Québec fare or looking for something more European, there is something to appeal to any appetite.

Traditional Sugar Shack

Cozy cabins nestled in the heart of an ancient maple forest, La Sucrerie de la Montagne (Candy of the Mountain) is a Québec heritage site. Celebrating over 40 years as an authentic Québec experience, founder Pierre Faucher and son Stefan are committed to honouring the traditions of Québec. Smell the aromas from the wood-fired bakery, learn how sap is turned into syrup, and enjoy a hearty Québecois meal.

Great Mix of Culture and Wildlife

This tour has it all! Discover nature’s wonders with visits to Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island. See wildlife such as whales and northern gannets. Learn about the heritage and traditions of Québec’s craftsman, sugarmakers, and fisherman. 

Whale Sightings 

Between May and October, up to 13 species of cetaceans are drawn to the cold krill-filled waters of the St. Lawrence. Find Minke, Blue (the largest creatures on the planet), Beluga, Humpback, and Fin whales ... the Humpbacks come close enough that you can spot them from shore! 

Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being an “exceptional example of a fortified colonial town”, Old Québec is the only walled city north of Mexico. The city’s history dates back over 400 years and is considered the birthplace of French North America. 

• Private coach transportation
• Our unique Connections Program
• 7 nights accommodation
• 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
• All entry fees, and passes for included highlights
• Services of a Professional Tour Director

Prices are in Canadian dollars, are per person, and include all applicable taxes.

Included Highlights

• Saint-Jean-Port-Joli Woodcarving Museum
• Percé Rock
• Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé boat tour
• Banc-de-Pêche-de-Paspébiac Historic Site
• St. Lawrence River by ferry
• Guided tour of Québec City
• Sucrerie de la Montagne

Day 1: Drummondville

Board the motorcoach, sit back, relax, and get to know your fellow passengers. After arriving at the hotel and settling into your room, enjoy dinner with your new friends.

Stay:  Best Western Hôtel Universel, Drummondville

Nights: 1

Meals: D

Day 2: Musée des Anciens Canadiens

Travel the byroads this morning to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, the woodcarver’s capital of Québec.  In this prestigious museum and interpretation center, the memory of the artists and craftsmen in the region is preserved and honoured.  View the intricate works and the different styles of woodcarvers before journeying on to officially arrive in the Gaspé Peninsula.

Stay:  Hotel Belle Plage, Matane 

Nights: 1

Meals:  B, L, D

Day 3:  Percé

Enjoy a relaxing day travelling to Percé, a small village near the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. There will be plenty of time to explore this quaint area.

Stay: Hôtel Le Mirage, Percé

Nights: 2

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4: Bonaventure Island, Percé Rock

Spend the day enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the little village of Percé. Lookout in the harbour to see Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, considered to be a jewel of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The park includes Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock, a natural rock formation located close to the shore, facing the town, and known for its size, colour, and an unusual door-like hole at one end. A cruise will provide an up-close view of the famous rock, with the option to stop at Bonaventure Island and follow the walking trails to see one of the most important gannet colonies in the world.

Meals: B

Day 5:  Banc-de-Pêche-de-Paspébiac Historic Site, Matapédia Valley

Learn about the evolution of the fishing industry in Gaspésie at the Banc de Pêche de Paspébiac Historic Site. Starting from the late 18th century, the site tells the story of the empire of two significant family companies from the Island of Jersey who were able to profit from the commercial fishing industry in the area. Continue up through the Matapédia Valley, to complete the circle around the Gaspé peninsula.

Stay: Le Navigateur Hotel, Rimouski

Nights: 1

Meals: B, L

Day 6: Ferry Across the St. Lawrence, Arrive in La Malbaie

Cross the St. Lawrence River by ferry today aboard the M.V. Trans-Saint-Laurent, a service that has been in existence between Rivière-du-Loup and Saint-Siméon for over 80 years. Enjoy the scenery on board the ferry during the 65-minute crossing, keeping an eye open for marine wildlife! With its unique underwater topography, the St. Lawrence River provides a summer feast for many species of whales.

*Note: This day is subject to change due to the ferry schedule.

Stay: Hôtel Clarendon, Québec City

Nights: 2

Meals: B, D

Day 7: Québec City

After breakfast, hear the fascinating history of Québec City through your step-on guide. After your orientation, the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. In the evening, savour a group farewell dinner in this beautiful, old city. 

Meals:  B, D

Day 8: La Sucrerie de la Montagne, Travel Home

Our journey westward includes a stop at La Sucrerie de la Montagne, an ‘old-time’ sugar shack that proudly showcases the traditional process of making maple syrup. Smell the heavenly aromas from the wood-fired bakery, and enjoy a traditional Québecois lunch.  There will be time to visit their gift shop to purchase some maple products or perhaps syrup for your first breakfast back at home! As you board the coach, say “au revoir” to La Belle Province, and continue on the journey home.

Meals: B, L

Best Western Hôtel Universel, Drummondville (1 night)

With comfortable accommodations and a host of amenities including a beautiful atrium indoor heated pool, the friendly staff at Best Western Hôtel Universel take pride in welcoming guests to Drummondville.

Hôtel Belle Plage, Matane (1 night)

Hotel Belle Plage has been charming visitors with its friendly hospitality for over 70 years. Their attentive and courteous staff will treat you to a warm Gaspé welcome and make your stay a memorable one.

Hôtel Le Mirage, Percé (2 nights)

Characterized by its welcome and the splendor of its decor Hôtel Le Mirage offers superior quality rooms with a breathtaking view of Rocher Percé and Bonaventure Island. 

Le Navigateur Hotel, Rimouski (1 night)

With its beautiful maritime-style interior, Le Navigateur Hotel,  offers clean, spacious and comfortable rooms. Located just steps away from the St. Lawrence River, the hotel is conveniently near restaurants and shops. 

Hôtel Clarendon, Quebec City (2 nights)

Located in the heart of Old Québec, the Hôtel Clarendon  is just steps away from the city's activities, attractions. Inaugurated in 1870, it is the oldest continuously operating hotel in the city. The hotel offers a distinctive historic experience alongside 4-star comfort.

This tour includes our unique Connections Program, and follows travel route C1, picking up in the following locations:

• Brampton
• Markham
• Whitby
• Bowmanville
• Port Hope
• Lindsay
• Peterborough
• Cobourg
• Napanee
• Belleville
• Kingston

Ferry Information: Approximately 1 ¼ hrs. The ferry holds 100 cars and 399 passengers, there are approximately 30 stairs, the ferry offers a cafeteria-style restaurant & gift shop.

For the ferry and boat tours on this itinerary, some people may want to bring along their remedies for motion sickness. You don’t want to let a little thing like that spoil these amazing experiences.