Québec (29.12.18-02.01.19)

Right after our arrival, we head to the old town of Quebec. We round off the first impression of beautiful 'Vieux-Quebec by night' with a beer before returning to our cozy home on the icy sidewalks.

The next morning, we go up the Escaliers du Fauburg to the 'Observatoire de la Capitale'. From the windows on the 31st floor, a super 360° panorama of the city can be seen on a guided tour equipped with information boards. A great experience on a cold and beautiful day. After a meal in the old quarter, we slide down to the Terrasse Dufferin. The view of the Hotel Château Frontenac, which was never actually a castle, is most beautiful from the former Gouverneurs-Promenade. We descend into the former docklands to Rue du Petit Champlain via the 'Escalier Casse-Cou'. The many shops and restaurants in the historic buildings have to cope with very narrow conditions and exude a unique charm. The small funicular, the 'Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebéc', takes us back up to the old town without breaking a sweat.

On December 31st, we take a walk through Saint-Roche and the Basse-Ville. Poutine, a Canadian specialty (soggy fries with cream cheese and gravy), the 'Fromagerie des Grondines et ses amis' is at the top of the list for insiders. We have to try that. Comments on practice: well, a tastefully interesting, unhealthy mess. Will we become poutine fans? No. However, the saucisse sèche with blue cheese is absolutely amazing.

The attempt to reserve a table at Les Sales Gosses for January 2nd fails. Like so many excellent restaurants in Quebec, this one is also closed until January 8th. Back in our retreat, we dedicate ourselves to socializing. In Thailand, the fireworks start at noon Quebec time for the Affolters. In Switzerland, the sliding starts at 6:00 PM local time. Shortly after 11:00 PM, we put on our warm layers, lace up our sturdy shoes, and climb back up to the old town once more. We pass through the security check to the Grande Allee, the festive area for New Year's Eve. Past a stage where good 'Classic Rock' and later local country music is played, we move towards the Citadel to be able to watch the announced fireworks. It is amazing how peacefully and respectfully the crowds move between the attractions on the festival site. A quarter of an hour before midnight, without any crowds, we find places with the best view of the Plaines d'Abraham where the fireworks are shot into the sky. The rather short spectacle starts on time. A bit dry without music and much less opulent than over Lake St. Moritz. Accompanied by booming beats and flickering light effects, we walk through the festival area in the snowfall, back to Rue de la Cité where the warm bed awaits.

As is probably the case in many places around the world, the morning of January 1st in Quebec City is quiet. We take a look at Vieux Port and the unfortunately closed Marché through almost deserted streets.

We walk along Rue sous le Cap with its funny, colorful terraces and bridges to Quai 22 where a different perspective of the Chateau Frontenac opens up.

And once again, it's time for the beloved packing. The next morning, we drive to Montréal for the final stop of our dream trip.

The best view of the city:  https://www.observatoire-capitale.com/