19 Dec 10 Old Quebec City

Temp: -12 Degrees, clear skies

Time for another stroll around the walled city of Quebec, this time by day. We returned to the frolicking grounds of the squirrel before venturing under the immense walls of La Citadelle. I took some time out for a slide down some steps. Great fun even if unintentional. Entrance to the walled fort is through a winding passage. Great open corridors contained by the huge walls lead you, eventually into the heart of the fort. It is easy to see how difficult the fort would have been to have been breached. The tour of the fort wasn't until later in the afternoon so we found our way out, eventually, and entered the Old city. This time we went inside the Chateaux Frontegnac. Reputedly the most photographed hotel in the world. I could see why. It is an immense stone structure with the classic green copper roof. The masonry is magnificent. Inside the hotel the eyes are assailed by beautiful wood work, wood and glass framed stores on marble and stone tiled flooring. The gold, green and red decorations of the season added to the décor. A restaurant overlooks the city walls and the Saint Laurent river. Prices here seemed quite reasonable with the most expensive meal around the $23 CAD. I may have only been looking at the entree, however.

From here we decided to take the ferry across the river. The view from here at the city, and also the island was incredible. The sound of the ferry cracking and smashing through the ice was an unforgettable experience. With the cold breeze stinging the skin you have to wander at the sight of rowers canoeing through the water at this time of year. Occasionally they would step out onto the ice sheets to push along with one leg.

On returning to Old Quebec we visited the Rue Champlain. Stores lie the street offering all sorts of wares. Popped into le Fudgerie, a store offering chocolate, fudge and nougat treats. Outside, and up one of the cobbled roads we met the sound of drums in rhythmic percussion. Two people on stilts lead by a third came down one of the steeper declines. An incredible feat considering people with shoes and boots were sliding down this road, surfer style. Some unintentionally I might add. We decided to take the glass elevator ride up. For $2 CAD per person this trip offers another view of the shopping precinct below, the river and island.

Later that evening we returned to the city to eat dinner at the Ancien Canada house. This home was built in 1675 and now serves as a restaurant serving fine Canadian cuisine. Hailey and I braved the Bison burgers while Sara had the 'Quebec' pie (pork) and Kylie a seafood plate. The Bison has a strong gamey flavour, but not unpleasant, and easily washed down with a Quebec sauvignon Blanc.

After dinner we continued our walk around city, drawing in the sights now becoming familiar, but still ever entertaining.