Photographer Jeanne Rondeau-Ducharme grew up in Quebec City and still enjoys returning. She shares her recommendations for making the most of a summer getaway in the nation's capital.
Stroll at your own pace through Old Quebec City
A visit to Quebec City wouldn’t be complete without taking a stroll through the streets of Petit Champlain and admiring the view from Château Frontenac. While it’s a place that normally draws crowds during the warmer months, the summer of 2020 is shaping up to be a great time to explore the area at your own pace, since there are fewer tourists than usual. Most of the shops are open and there are several restaurants ready to welcome you, giving the area a pleasant and lively vibe.
Jeanne's Tip: Make the most of your visit by sipping a beer on one of the many patios! She really enjoyed the Pub Saint-Patrick!
Discover the sentier des Grèves
One of the city's best-kept secrets is the sentier des Grèves near Jacques-Cartier Beach. A famed feature of Quebec City is its proximity to the St. Lawrence River, and the sentier des Grèves is the ideal place from which to take advantage of it. Nestled between two cliffs, you’ll discover a charming little beach where you can kick back with your toes in the sand. The 1.7 km-long trail is also the perfect place to go for a run or a walk in the great outdoors!
Jeanne's Tip: Plan a picnic and enjoy it on the beach. Le Germain Hotel Québec City and Alt Hotel Québec City offer thoughtfully prepared picnics loaded with delectable local products.
Explore the Old Port
The Old Port is the ideal place in Quebec City to stroll around in relaxed surroundings. What’s more, every Thursday through Sunday until September 27, 2020, the area’s streets are transformed into large open-air terraces where visitors can get together for a great meal in an enchanting setting, all while respecting the required physical distancing. The perfectly located Le Germain Hotel Québec City offers a superb view of the Old Port’s marina.
Jeanne's Tip: Take your coffee to go and enjoy it on the dock, just a few steps from the hotel!