Canada trip | Culture tasting in Quebec

You will be collected from your hotel by your private chauffeur and taken to the historic part of the city, Old Montréal, in around 10 minutes. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover how Montréal was founded by the French, later conquered by the English and eventually developed into a vibrant metropolis in the 20th and 21st centuries.

As you stroll through the charming, cobbled streets, you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours Chapel, Montréal City Hall and the magnificent old bank buildings on Saint-Jacques Street, once known as the ‘Little Wall Street of Canada’. You’ll explore the lively Rue Saint-Paul, admire the Cours Le Royer and discover the city’s historic origins at the Hôtel-Dieu, Montréal’s first hospital. The oldest building in the historic district, the Séminaire des Sulpiciens, is also included. The tour concludes with an introduction to Montréal’s charming Old Port. After your walk, your private chauffeur will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

In the evening, a culinary experience is planned at your hotel as the sun sets. You’ll take a seat on the atmospheric bar terrace, where you can admire the impressive artwork by Leonard Cohen. You’ll be treated to a luxurious seafood tower and a glass of premium champagne, whilst the sun slowly disappears over the horizon.

On your final day in Montréal, a spectacular activity awaits: a helicopter flight that allows you to experience the city from an unrivalled perspective. As you take off, a panoramic view of the impressive skyline and iconic landmarks unfolds before you.

You’ll fly over the imposing Stade Olympique, built for the 1976 Olympic Games, and over Mont Royal, the city’s green heart, where you’ll admire the famous viewpoint and the majestic Oratoire Saint-Joseph. The helicopter tour takes you on to the bustling Centre-ville de Montréal, where skyscrapers and historic buildings stand side by side. You’ll then glide over the atmospheric Vieux-Port, the old harbour district with its charming cobbled streets, and the St Lawrence River. You’ll then fly past the famous Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, home to the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the glittering Casino de Montréal.

One of the highlights of the flight is the view of the impressive Jacques-Cartier Bridge, which connects the city to the southern banks of the river. The tour concludes with a serene flight over the picturesque Îles de Boucherville, a green oasis in the middle of the river, where nature and tranquillity come together.

After a day filled with stunning views, the evening concludes with a visit to the enchanting Notre-Dame Basilica in Montréal. During the Aura Experience, this historic masterpiece is transformed into a breathtaking spectacle of light and sound. Upon entering, you’ll admire the rich Gothic architecture and the magnificent interior, which is stunning in its own right. As soon as the show begins, the basilica comes to life with spectacular projections that illuminate the vaults and stained-glass windows in a dance of colours and shapes. Accompanied by a captivating orchestral soundtrack, you’ll be immersed in a magical experience.

After exploring Montreal, you’ll continue your journey to the picturesque region of the Eastern Townships. You’ll be transferred to the car hire company, where you’ll collect your comfortable hire car. You’ll then drive for just under two hours to your wonderful hotel, Manoir Hovey, situated in North Hatley.

The Eastern Townships is a picturesque region in the south-east of the Canadian province of Québec, bordering the US state of Vermont. This region is known for its rolling hills, lakes, vineyards and charming villages with a blend of English and French influences. North Hatley is a picturesque village situated on the idyllic Lake Massawippi. Here you’ll find charming Victorian architecture, boutiques and art galleries, beautiful natural surroundings and a rich English-speaking cultural heritage.

Manoir Hovey isa member of Relais & Châteaux; a global community of luxury hotels and restaurants owned and managed by families, which places great emphasis on the richness and diversity of the world’s culinary and hospitality traditions. In addition to breakfast, an exquisite four-course dinner is included during your stay here.

Today, you’ll continue your journey to Québec City. Québec City is the only city in North America where the city walls are still standing, and the area within the walls (the old part of the city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And that’s hardly surprising, given its beautiful historic architecture, various monuments and charming cobbled streets.

The following day, you’ll explore the city on foot with a private guide. At a leisurely pace, you’ll take the time to explore and discover the history, architecture and charms of Old Québec, a World Heritage Site! Starting from your hotel lobby, you’ll embark on a fascinating walk past iconic landmarks such as Place d’Armes, the Notre-Dame Basilica, the Town Hall, Holy Trinity Church, Quartier Petit Champlain and Place Royale. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the people who founded and defended Québec City over four turbulent centuries. An unforgettable way to experience the history and charm of this extraordinary city!

On the final day of your stay in Canada, you’ll have the chance to encounter the most fascinating and majestic creatures in the world during a guided, full-day private whale-watching cruise. Experience the unspoilt nature along the breathtaking Saguenay Fjord, where the mountains meet the sea. You’ll sail along the St Lawrence River and admire Tadoussac, one of the most beautiful bays in the world, on the border of the picturesque Charlevoix and Manicouagan regions. This area is renowned as one of the best places in the world for whale watching. With an experienced guide, you’ll learn how to recognise minke whales, fin whales, blue whales and belugas. Thanks to the wide-angle and underwater cameras on board, you’ll also get a unique glimpse of the rich marine life.

In the evening, we have reserved a table for you at Taniere3, located in Old Québec City. The restaurant is inspired by the local history and terroir of Québec. Taniere3 offers two different dining experiences: one in the atmospheric cellar dining room and one at the chef’s counter, where you can watch the dishes being prepared up close.