April in Quebec
The winter blues have passed. The northern corner of the states is seeping into Summer FINALLY. The weather is constantly on an up and down trend, but we are out exploring.
Old Quebec City
Our first trip in the spring, just to break from the winter blues was a quick trip out of the country just a bit further north to Quebec City, QB. If you haven’t had the opportunity to venture into the quaint part of the city known as old town Quebec, its a definite on the tick list. For us Vermonters, it is a short weekend trip but it feels as if you have crossed the ocean and landed in Europe.
This city is magical to me and the people were all so welcoming. The short 3.5 hour drive north to Old Quebec City makes it easy for a long weekend, or dare I say lunch if you love a good long drive.
We were fortunate to have a very good friend with us to share this rich experience where our only goal, was wine, cheese, pastries and coffee. Or as our Quebec hosts would say, le vin, le fromage, les patisseries, et le café. But of course we did leave room for chocolate.
The sun was shining fully and it was a rare 70-degrees in April. All of us had been working way too many hours and were more than ready for a respite regardless of the length. Leaving to go to our sister country and experience a taste of Europe was just what was needed.
The Hotel Palace Royal greeted us on the edge of the old city within walking distance of all the quaint streets, and attractions like Le Chateau Frontenac, and the Citadelle. The concierge greeted us, in French as we entered, (Now I am thinking I should have practiced more.) The butterflies begin and instead of answering in French, I smile and ask, vous repetez s’il vous plait? Finally there is understanding, the room is ready and the baggage is delivered right behind us as we enter the room.
This hotel is not old, but older and oozing with character. An indoor courtyard filled with light and a view from our balcony where we’ll sit with wine & slices of cheese while listening to the live music after our quick swim and dip in the hot tub. But before our R and R on the balcony, it was time to venture into the city for some sustenance.
Cobble stone streets and dinner…..
Now that our feet are in Old Quebec City, hunger finally hits, and the exploration of the village begins. It is beyond charming. The streets are narrow, and many are cobblestone. Signage hangs into the walkway truly feeling old world. Europe is here, France is here at our feet, yet we KNOW we are still in North America. It is just a little surreal.
Taking our time, even through protesting stomachs, we enjoy the smells of pizza, and crepes, coffee and pastries. Ok, I made up that last part because it was too late to smell the pastries, But you get the idea.
Opting to walk the length of the first street before making a final decision for dinner and then landing at the door of Le Casse Crepe Breton.
The menu varies from sweet to savory offering the palette a healthy or more decadent choice. Each of us chose the crepe that suited our mood and screaming taste buds. Bananes, de Fraise avec chocolat. Not much translation is needed to know that the mix of chocolate and bananas is going to be fabulous, especially with strawberries. For my dinner I opted for a savory dish with melting cheese and seasoned tomatoes on a buckwheat crepe and a salad on the side. All said and done, everything was delicious so that our exploring could commence.
The Invitation of painted doors….
The evening light is just beginning to dim. Walking the streets to settle dinner and scope out which café will be the best place for “le petit dejeuner” (breakfast). So many places to choose from and the desire to eat ALL the pastries possible.
Macarons & Cafe’
Pastries are not in short supply in le petit ville. It was wonderful to wander around, peak into each patisserie and café to decide which would be the best for the next day. We tried three, one we went to twice. Believe it or not, it doesn’t get old.
Shoppes and Ice Cream….
The shops are all charming. The art galleries are unique and filled with the art of from local artists. The architecture doesn’t disappoint either. This city originated in the 17th century and now although the comforts of home are there, has retained all its original character. A few places we intended to see were closed on Monday. Something we hadn’t checked, but the shops that were open were worth visiting and of course, more pastries.
The Town Square….
This barely scratches the surface of what Old Quebec City has to offer. Hopefully it peaks your interest just enough to do a bit of research and plan a visit to this very lovely place. (map)
