Active Adventure in Quebec City: History, Culture, and Scenic Cycling

The Trip

Year after year, travel magazines rank Québec City and its surrounds among the world’s top destinations. Just a few miles from the border with the United States, you will step into a world where French is the primary language and the culture and ambiance are distinctly European.

As the birthplace of French North America and the only walled city north of Mexico, Québec City is teeming with history, culture, museums, galleries, architecture, dramatic scenery, and international cuisine and delicacies. Québec-Vieux (Old City) was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, and you will soon see why.

We will explore with local guides on foot and bicycle-friendly lanes.

We’ll stay in comfortable lodging, just steps from the heart of Old City and minutes from major attractions including the iconic Chateau Frontenac, the majestic Saint Lawrence River, Parliament House, lovely gardens, and the Plains of Abraham, home of pivotal battles and now host to events and festivals throughout the year.

Our days and nights will be filled with all there is to see and do. We’ve built in free time to relax and explore on your own.

Our itinerary is tentative and subject to change depending on weather, pacing, the group, safety, and other conditions. The sequence and timing of activities may vary. Participants need to be flexible and adapt as circumstances change. To enjoy and get the most out of the outing, be ready for the unexpected! For the safety and enjoyment of all, participants are expected to stay together and contribute to a convivial, supportive atmosphere. Good humor and a positive attitude are invaluable. The leaders reserve the right to make changes as necessary, both before and during the trip. Please be aware Sierra Club specifically empowers the leader to exclude individuals from a trip activity in the interest of the safety or health of individuals or the group.

The second section, trip 24424B, coincides with the Festival d’été de Québec (https://www.feq.ca/en), eleven days of music in the heart of Quebec, which runs from July 4^th – 14^th and includes many ticketed and free events. Since the trip coincides with this festival participant flexibility will be key since adjustments to the itinerary may need to occur to accommodate the festival.

In addition, an optional trip extension with more excursions may be offered. Please let your leader know if you are interested in this option.

General schedule:

7:15 a.m. Coffee and breakfast at our lodging

8:00 to 9:00 a.m. Depart for the day’s activities (walking or by van)

Midday – Lunch*

4:00 to 5:00 p.m. – Return to lodging for showers, rest or relaxation

6:00 to 7:00 p.m. – Dinner “in” or at local restaurants*

*All meals included except where indicated.

Day 1: We'll meet for an orientation and welcome dinner at our comfortable lodging. We’ll share set-up and clean-up duties for dinner. Then, while it is still light, we’ll have a guided walking tour of Québec-Vieux. Learning about the city’s rich history and architecture from a longtime resident and educator we’ll experience the ambiance of a city filled with locals and tourists strolling on pedestrian-friendly streets, chatting at outdoor cafes and restaurants, and reveling in the evening air.

Day 2: After being fitted for our e-assist bikes and having instruction and practice, we'll embark on an all-day pedal-assisted tour of the beautiful city on a hill, along the majestic Saint Lawrence River and the famous Plains of Abraham. We’ll stop at a local restaurant for a delicious lunch. We’ll have time to shower and rest or wander on our own before dinner at a local restaurant or “take in” at our lodging.

Day 3: We'll go on a ferry across the St. Lawrence River to Lèvis (https://canada-quebec.ca/transportation/quebec-levis-ferry.html) bikeway along the river with fabulous views of Old Quebec and the Château Frontenac for a guided bicycle tour, enjoying lunch en route. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore on your own before meeting for a group dinner.

Day 4: We'll go for an all-day excursion by private van to the famous Montmorency Falls (https://www.quebec-cite.com/en/businesses/parc-de-la-chute-morency). Accompanied by a park guide, we’ll walk along the trails and learn the history of waterpower. There is also an optional cable car ride overlooking the falls. From there, we’ll travel to Wendake Native village (https://www.huron-wendat.qc.ca/en/), have a traditional lunch and tour the longhouse and museum. Dinner is on your own (not included in trip price).

Day 5: In the morning we will visit the Musée de la Civilisation (https://mcq.org/en/) whose role is to make known the history and cultural elements of civilization, particularly the social and material aspects of the cultures of Québec. The museum features many world-class temporary and permanent exhibits such as “This is our Story – First Nations and Inuit in the 21^st Century”.

The afternoon is free for participants to explore Quebec further.  Potential activities include Nordic Spa (https://www.quebec-cite.com/en/what-to-do-quebec-city/nordic-spas), Plains of Abraham (https://www.ccbn-nbc.gc.ca/en/), Museum of Fine Arts (https://www.mnbaq.org), and Parliament House (https://www.assnat.qc.ca/fr/index.html).

We will meet for a farewell group dinner afterward.

Day 6: We say our goodbyes as we head for home or continue traveling.

Getting There

Québec City is accessible by train, bus, car, or airplane (https://www.bonjourquebec.com/en-us/plan-your-trip/transportation/getting-around-quebec). To minimize your ecological footprint, you may take Amtrak and Via Rail Canada or bus lines to Quebec City. It’s best to check those schedules, however, as service and schedules change. Montreal to Québec City on Via Rail Canada is approximately 3½ hours. Driving in the city is not advisable, as it was designed before cars ruled. Parking is difficult and expensive. You can fly to Montreal or directly to Québec City. From the airport, train station, or bus station, a taxi or ride-share to our lodging is recommended. 2023 fares by taxi to the Old City from the airport were approximately US$35 to US$45 and from the train station approximately US$12 to US$16.

The leaders can facilitate your contacting one another to share travel plans and rides. Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until notified to do so by the trip leader. The Sierra Club strongly advises purchasing trip insurance. Participants who wish to extend their stay before or after the trip dates must make their own arrangements.

Note: Passports are required for U.S. citizens to enter Canada. See passport requirements https://www.us-passport-service-guide.com/canada-travel-requirements.html

Cash, Currency, and Sales Tax

Most vendors accept major credit cards, but some smaller places prefer cash, so it is a good idea to have some Canadian currency on hand. ATM/cash machines are readily available. For items you purchase on your own, be aware that you should allow for approximately 15% tax on top of the listed prices. In addition, some banks charge for cash withdrawals and credit card fees for foreign transactions may apply. Check with your credit card company and bank about those details to avoid unwelcome surprises.

Accommodations and Food

Lodging arrangements will be confirmed once we know the size and composition of the group, including the number of people sharing beds or rooms and solo travelers needing roommate matches. Double rooms are included in the trip costs. A limited number of single rooms may be available for an extra charge. Contact the leader to request a single room; subject to availability.

We will stay either in a small historic hostel, a former convent, in the heart of Québec Vieux (Old Québec), or apartments in a shared house just outside the Old City walls. The hostel is basic but comfortable, with real beds, private bathrooms with hot showers, communal lounge areas, and a fully equipped kitchen. In either place, you will not need to worry about being on top of a bunk bed.

The hostel houses other guests, including individuals or small groups of independent travelers, and sometimes energetic teens on school outings. Those larger groups sleep in dormitory-styled rooms in a separate section of the hostel. Many Outings participants appreciate the youthful energy, but we want you to be aware of that possibility.

The other housing possibility is a single dwelling divided into two- or three-bedroom apartments, each with at least one bathroom, living area, and kitchen. Each apartment unit has ample living/lounge space for our group gatherings.

Both the hostel and the house provide bedding and linens, and both are in ideal locations, very close to the heart of the Old City and within walking distance of most major attractions. Expect to walk up and down stairs, as the buildings do not have elevators.

Please note room preferences when you submit trip forms to the trip leader or speak to them during a phone interview. Specify requests for singles, sharing with a specific person in shared or separate beds, or to be matched with a roommate. We will do our best to accommodate preferences but cannot guarantee specific configurations until lodging arrangements are confirmed.

Participants extending their stay before or after the trip dates must book their own accommodations.

We will have simple but nourishing breakfasts, with bread and cereal supplemented with fresh fruit, yogurts, and other items. Lunches will be purchased at a deli or provided during our excursions. Dinners will be at various restaurants in town or taken “in” to eat at the lodging. In other words, there are no cooking duties except for shared tasks or light preparation, set up, and clean up! All meals except for one dinner are included in your trip price. We will be able to accommodate most diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free. If you have any concerns about meeting your dietary needs, please discuss them with the leader. In addition, we suggest bringing some of your own snacks or purchasing them locally at the many available markets. 

Trip Difficulty

This trip is rated as moderate in difficulty. Our two guided bike rides are approximately 7 and 16 miles and include some modest inclines. We’ve also planned a history-focused walking tour. Old Quebec is hilly and has uneven sidewalks and cobblestones. You’ll want to keep up with your fitness routine and will need sure footing, comfortable shoes, and the ability to stand and walk for several hours at a time.

Trip members are expected to participate in scheduled group activities, although there will be free time to enjoy on your own. We ask you to be punctual, considerate of fellow Sierra Club travelers, and willing to help out to keep things pleasant for all. We request that all participants be understanding about differences in views, comfort levels, fitness, speed, experience, and skill in outdoor activities. We are not in a race or competition. We look out for one another, try to be welcoming and respectful of all, and try to be sensitive and responsive to individual differences, views, and needs. Please discuss with the trip leader any issues or concerns that would affect your and others’ participation and enjoyment.

Equipment and Clothing

This trip is rated as moderate in difficulty. Our two guided bike rides are between 10 and 16 miles, with some modest inclines. We’ll ride electric-assist (e-assist) bicycles on the longer city tour where we’ll encounter steeper hills. The tour company will provide bicycles and helmets and racks or baskets to carry your essentials for the day. You may bring your helmet if you prefer. Wear footwear with closed toes or shoes with toe protection, such as those with covered-toe “bumpers." No open sandals while cycling are permitted. We strongly recommend that you are comfortable cycling and have some experience on an e-assist bicycle before the trip. The leaders can suggest how to do that. We’ll walk several miles on some days. The city has old streets, including cobblestones and uneven, hilly terrain. To fully enjoy our excursions, you’ll want to be as fit as possible, wear comfortable shoes, and be able to stand and walk for several hours at a time with some breaks. Be aware that while conditions vary, Quebec can be hot and humid in the summer months. Staying hydrated is essential.

Although this is a summer trip and can be hot, it can also be chilly, especially during rainy days and early mornings and evenings. Full rain gear is essential, as rain can occur at any time. Besides comfortable walking shoes, you’ll want casual shoes and clothing suitable for dining out.

In June, the average temperatures are 72 F (22 C) for a high, and 52 F (11 C) for a low. The average amount of rain for June is 4.5 inches (114 mm). On average in June, there are 234 hours of sunshine, daytime temperatures are usually very pleasant, and blue skies abound. However, it often rains (~13 days of the month), so be sure to have an umbrella as well as a full rain suit (top and bottom).

The trip leader will send additional information about how to prepare, a suggested packing list, and further details to confirm participants.

References

• http://www.Québec region.com/
• https://www.Québec -cite.com/en
• https://en.hiQuébec .ca/activities/
• http://www.locationechosports.ca/
• http://www.infofestival.com/
• https://tourismewendake.ca/
• Although this is a summer trip and can be hot, it can also be chilly, especially during rainy days and early mornings and evenings. Full rain gear is essential, as rain can occur at any time. Besides comfortable walking shoes, you’ll want casual shoes and clothing suitable for dining out.

In June, the average temperatures are 72 F (22 C) for a high, and 52 F (11 C) for a low. The average amount of rain for June is 4.5 inches (114 mm). On average in June, there are 234 hours of sunshine, daytime temperatures are usually very pleasant, and blue skies abound. However, it often rains (~13 days of the month), so be sure to have an umbrella as well as a full rain suit (top and bottom).

The trip leader will send additional information about how to prepare, a suggested packing list, and further details to confirm participants.

Conservation

Québec is the first jurisdiction in Canada to submit protected areas for consideration under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Green List Standard — a certification system for high-quality protected areas. In addition, an update to Québec’s Natural Heritage Conservation Act now recognizes Indigenous-led protected areas and commits to international protection standards.

We will strive to follow Leave No Trace practices during the entire trip.

Sierra Club National Outings is an equal-opportunity provider. When applicable, we will operate under permits from Parks Canada.