Québec City: love is in the air

By Stéphanie Gray

Keep the sparks flying with activities perfect for two. Whether it’s your honeymoon or a romantic weekend for two, prepare to be seduced by Québec City’s Old World charm. Not sure where to start? Try any one (or all!) of these unforgettable adventures.

WANDER THE OLD CITY

More than 400 years old, Québec City is the only walled-in city remaining in North America, and its Old Town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk down Côte de la Montagne and stand atop the staircase for a picture-perfect view of Rue de Petit-Champlain, your gateway to the charming district. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, where you can people watch as you sip on a coffee at a sidewalk café, browse the one-of-a-kind boutiques, or pop into a local gallery.

EXPLORE ON BICYCLES

Cover more ground than you would by foot by renting a bike for the day. Left your bike at home? No problem! Your concierge will show you where to rent one. From the hotel you can take two exceptional routes, including a 12-kilometre scenic ride to Montmorency Falls, an awe-inspiring waterfall one-and-a-half times higher than Niagara Falls, so be sure to bring your camera.

The second option is to head southwest along the bank of the St. Lawrence River on La Promenade Samuel-De Champlain. Highlights along the route include Boisé de Tequenonday, woodland containing Native archaeological remains and a small lookout reached by a zigzagging wood staircase, and Station des Quais, a set of four themed gardens, featuring art installations and interpretive paths. The base rate per bike is $10, which includes your first hour of use, with each additional half-hour at $5.

SUNSET FROM THE QUAI PAQUET

Snuggle up against your loved one and contemplate Old Quebec from afar while admiring the sunset from the Quai Paquet in Lévis. In the evening, the view of the Château Frontenac and the play of lights through the 160 water jets offer a magnificent spectacle. Don't forget your camera!

FRIDA KAHLO, DIEGO RIVIERA AND MEXICAN MODERNISM AT THE MNBAQ

This temporary exhibition presented at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec is simply fantastic. You have to see that. The masterpieces presented include 20 works by Frida Kahlo, including 10 paintings and 10 works on paper, among them the famous Self-Portrait with Necklace (1933), Self-Portrait with Braid (1941) and Diego On My Mind (1943), and Rivera’s celebrated Arum Vendor (1943). Presented until September 7th.

TURN IT UP AT LE GERMAIN HOTEL QUEBEC

Maximize the romance potential with thoughtful extras you’ll both love.

1. Breakfast in bed.
Stay in your robes a little longer with a made-to-order breakfast delivered straight to the room.

2. Champagne on arrival.
Chilled and ready to pop, kick off your trip with a bubbly toast.

3. Lighten Up.
Set the mood with 12 floating candles, accompanied with a bottle of cider.

4. Sweet Souvenir
For a souvenir that stands the test of time, bring Le Germain home with you. Two of our favourites: a bathrobe with Germain monogram (starting at $125) and glasses engraved with your room number (2 for $25). Visit collectiongermain.com.

5. Gift certificate.
Treat a loved one to a gift certificate. It couldn’t be easier, and it makes a great gift for that special someone who has everything!

Contact the concierge for pricing and arrangements of in-room services