Jennifer's Quebec Splendour

Breathtaking viewpoints in the Laurentian Mountains 

My adventure began in the stunning Laurentian Mountains at Mont Tremblant. Summer transforms this famous ski resort into an active playground of hiking trails, biking trails and stunning lakes. Every trail seemed to reveal another breathtaking viewpoint, with rolling green mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. After each hike, the lively pedestrian village was the perfect place to relax with a drink while soaking up the welcoming atmosphere.

Leaving the mountains behind, I travelled south towards the beautiful St. Lawrence River and the charming village of Montebello. Staying at The Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello was a destination in its own right, a unique property with so much history and character.

Exploring Montréal's vibrant and fascinating neighbourhoods    

From peaceful countryside to one of Canada's most exciting cities, Montréal was my next destination. To make the most of my two-day stay, I explored using the hop-on, hop-off bus, which turned out to be the perfect way to discover the city's many different neighbourhoods. Highlights included strolling through the historic old town, taking in spectacular morning views from Mount Royal and enjoying the markets at The Port of Montreal. Every district had its own personality, making Montréal one of the most enjoyable cities I've visited.

A memorable rail journey to Québec City 

One of the highlights of the entire holiday was travelling in Business Class by train to Québec City. Rail travel is such a relaxing way to see Canada. I enjoyed comfortable seating, excellent service, and a timely arrival into the heart of Historic Quebec City. It immediately captured my heart, with its old walls, narrow cobbled streets, and magnificent European atmosphere. It feels unlike anywhere else in Canada. I spent two wonderful days exploring the city and joinied a guided walking tour, which brought the city's remarkable history to life. From tales of early explorers to dramatic battles between the French and British, every street seemed to have its own fascinating story. The magnificent Fairmont Château Frontenac dominates the skyline and beyond the city is the incredibly impressive Montmorency Falls, a comfortable bookend to Toronto’s Niagara Falls!

A wonderfully nostalgic overnight rail trip to Halifax 

As incredible as Québec City was, one final adventure still awaited. Boarding the overnight sleeper train to Halifax felt like something Joanna Lumley would do. My sleeper cabin was comfortable, quiet and surprisingly spacious, providing the perfect place to unwind after an action-packed journey through Québec. There was something wonderfully nostalgic about watching the landscape disappear as the train gently rolled through the rest of Quebec Province on to New Brunswick and the Atlantic.

From the mountain trails of Mont Tremblant to the charm of Montebello, from the energy of Montréal to the timeless beauty of Québec City, every destination offered something unique. Finishing the trip aboard an overnight sleeper train to Halifax was the perfect ending to an unforgettable Canadian adventure.

If you're looking for a holiday that combines breathtaking scenery, rich history, fantastic cities and the simple pleasure of travelling by train, I can wholeheartedly recommend this incredible journey through Québec.