French Culture, Lobsters and Lighthouses
Immerse yourself in the fascinating historic beginnings of Canada as this programme explores the first urban centres of Quebec, the inspiring villages and national parks of the St. Lawrence River and the imposing shores and deep wilderness of the east coast. The vibrant art and culture of French Canada are the driving forces of Montreal and Quebec City, expressed through their architecture, museums and collection of restaurants representing cuisine from nations around the world. The St. Lawrence Seaway dominates the view as the route travels into the heart of Acadia and its mix of French, Native and Scottish ancestry that perfectly complements the lobster-laden inlets of the Northumberland Strait and the magnificently stark wilderness of the Cape Breton Highlands. The route leads back into Quebec where the waters of the sea and river meet and formed country’s earliest trading marine super-highway – a passage that is still one of the most in North America today.
Day 1: Arrival in Toronto
Arrive at Pearson International Airport in Toronto. Transfer independently to your downtown hotel. Pick up your Jonview Canada Roadbook at the front desk and check in. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this cosmopolitan city. Enjoy the fine cuisine, varied nightlife and world-class shopping of Toronto. Overnight in Toronto.
Day 2: Toronto
With the city at your doorstep, you can explore the many facets of this world-class destination. Toronto boasts a fascinating mix of multi-cultural neighbourhoods. From Chinatown to Little Italy, Greektown on the Danforth to Little Portugal, you’ll discover a virtual world within one city. Other highlights of the city included the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Art Museum, the Harbourfront District and the Eaton Centre and underground PATH complex with kilometres of subterranean shops, restaurants and services. Overnight in Toronto.
Activity:Ascend the 553.33 metres of the CN Tower, offering, sweeping panoramic views and a world of entertainment. Venture back in time and travel from the mid-70s to the present where visitors discover the architectural secrets behind the tower. From there, the glass faced elevators, now with glass floor panels, rockets to the LookOut Observation level in a mere 58 seconds. Dare to walk the Glass Floor, sample the exquisite cuisine at 360 Restaurant the revolving restaurant or relax in Horizon\'s Restaurant. Admission ticket provides elevation to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels along with access to base attractions that include a 3D film and motion theatre ride.
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Activity: Visit the new Ripley’s Aquarium near the base of the CN Tower, featuring a 12,500 square-metre attraction with more than 5.7 million litres of water depicting marine and freshwater habitats from around the world. A 96 metre long moving walkway takes all visitors through an acrylic tunnel deep below the Shark Lagoon. A total of 49 tanks in 7 galleries showcase fresh and saltwater habitats from around the world. Guests are sure to enjoy “touch tanks†with horseshoe crabs, sharks, and rays, as well as a café and gift shop.
Day 3: Toronto to Montreal
Drive east today following the shoreline of Lake Ontario and pass through the small communities and villages that adorn the landscape. You will pass by the city of Kingston, home to the prestigious Queen’s University and the gateway to the port lands of the beautiful 1000 Islands – a nearly countless collection of small islets grouped over a vast natural waterway. Continuing eastbound towards the border of Ontario and Quebec along the shoreline of the might St. Lawrence River, you cross soon reach the thriving metropolis of Montreal - a city of cultural contrasts and urban elegance. Overnight in Montreal
Day 4: Montreal
Today you independently explore the many sights and sounds of Montreal. You may choose to visit such highlights as the beautiful Notre Dame Basilica, residential and financial districts or historic Old Montreal. For a taste of the contrasting architectural, perhaps visit the Olympic Complex or the sprawling grounds of the campus of McGill University. For a dramatic overall view of the city, take it all in from the panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mont Royal. Montreal is renowned for its superb dining, sampling menus and cultures from around the world. Overnight in Montreal. *Today is the start of the 17-night itinerary.
Activity: Embark on a fully-narrated city tour of Montreal with highlights that include a stop at the beautiful Notre Dame Basilica (entrance not included), residential and financial districts, historic Old Montreal, an outside view of the Olympic Complex, the campus of McGill University and the panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mont Royal. The tour can be considered a complete tour of the city, as it will bring passengers by more than 200 points of interest. Tours are in English and French only.
Day 5: Montreal to Montmagny
Depart Montreal and travel eastward on the east side of the St. Lawrence through the cultural heartland of French Canada. En route to Montmagny, we suggest a stop at Cap-de-la-Madeleine, Canada\'s national shrine to the Virgin Mary. You may wish to alter your route slightly north to the shore of the river to the bustling town of Trois-Rivières. Stop for lunch, or perhaps visit the Museum of Quebec Folk Arts and Traditions to see excellent examples of period wood carving, tapestries and other fascinating artwork that tells the story of the region’s people and cultures. Overnight in Montmagny.
Day 6: Montmagny to Edmundston
The towns and villages such as Riviere-du-Loup and Saint Pascale have grown up along the banks of the river and reflect a complex modern history spanning over three centuries. The cultures of these communities are the legacy of both French and English empires during the country’s formative years. Take your time and perhaps stop at any one of these vibrant towns to experience a true taste of Quebecois culture. Crossing into New Brunswick, arrive in the small, picturesque town of Edmundston for the evening. Overnight in Edmundston
Day 7: Edmundston to St. Andrews-By-The-Sea
Today journey through the central wilds of New Brunswick en route to the southern shores of the province. The central region of New Brunswick contains some of the most pristine wilderness of Eastern Canada. The vast tracks of forests are home to wildlife such as brown and black bears, moose, wolves and other woodland creatures large and small - it is both an avid naturalist’s and casual outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. Arrive in the seaside village of St. Andrews-by-the-Sea where the rest of the day is free to explore this charming maritime community. Overnight in St. Andrews-by-the-Sea.
Day 8: St. Andrews-By-The-Sea
Today is yours to experience a day in the life of an East Coast villager. This bustling town has developed into one of the premier tourist destination in the Maritimes. Everything from local modern and native art galleries, to interactive salmon hatcheries, to a fascinating aquarium delight visitors year round. If seafood is to your liking, the small restaurants of the village serve up delicacies from the daily catches that are sure to tantalize you. Overnight in St. Andrews-by-the- Sea.
Activity:Embark on a marine wildlife and whale watching tour, experiencing the thrill of racing across the waves of the Fundy coastal waters to view magnificent natural spectacle of a massive humpback, finback or minke whale cresting the surface to feed. A small group of 6 to 12 participants is guided by an experienced mariner in a high-speed rigid hull Zodiac boat, equipped with the latest modern tracking equipment to maximize the chances t view as many whales as possible.
Day 9: St. Andrews-By-The-Sea to Digby
This morning take the short journey to St. John where you independently take a ferry across the deep blue waters of the Bay of Fundy. Disembark at naturally-sheltered cove settlement of Digby, a Loyalist town dating back to English settlers in the 1750’s. Named after the captain of the first colony ship, Robert Digby, you can tour several small museums and historic homes celebrating the town’s establishment. Overnight in Digby.
Day 10: Digby to Halifax
Crossing the width of Nova Scotia, your route takes you alongside the gates of Kejimkujik National Park, an idyllic natural oasis of old growth forest surrounding a large inland lake. Continuing on towards the southern coast, pass by Bridgewater on the shores of the La Have River, followed by a drive through the port of Lunenburg and its Famous Fisheries Museum. On the approaches to Halifax, you follow the northern shores of Margaret’s Bay, one of Nova Scotia’s largest natural harbours. This harbour is peaked by the famous Peggy’s Cove and its iconic whitewashed lighthouses - historic sentries preventing ships from running aground on the rocky shoals that surround the harbour entrance. Arrive in the premier city of Halifax for the evening. Overnight in Halifax.
Day 11: Halifax to Baddeck
Today you drive through the centre of Nova Scotia, passing through the towns of Truro and New Glasgow, celebrating their European heritage. Arrive at the narrows of the ocean and eastern reaches of the Northumberland Strait at the doorstep of the island and the commercial hub of Ports Hawkesbury near the tip of St. Georges Bay. Continue on through gentle rolling fields of the bay area as it transitions into the beautiful Bras D’Or Lake lowlands. Arrive in Baddeck, often known as the gateway to the Cape Breton Highlands. Overnight in Baddeck.
Day 12:Baddeck
With a day free in Baddeck, we suggest a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail into the highlands of northern Cape Breton. The trail runs past lochs and glens settled by Scottish Highlanders and along scenic coastlines settled by Acadians. You will meander through the rugged Cape Breton Highlands National Park, enjoying stunning views of sea-swept headlands, steep cliffs and tranquil beaches. Hiking trails lead into the interior of the park where stunning vistas appear at each turn. Return to Baddeck through the lush Margaree Valley. Overnight in Baddeck.
Day 13: Baddeck to Shediac
Today you have another opportunity to stop and visit the small towns on the route back into New Brunswick. If you didn’t have the chance on your journey east, perhaps now stop for lunch in the small town of Truro, or watch gravity be defied at the Magnetic Hill in Moncton where your car will appear to roll uphill. Stay a little longer and visit the adjacent Magnetic Hill Zoo with creatures both unique to Canada and from around the world. Continue on to Shediac where you might wish to treat yourself to a lobster dinner at one of the local restaurants. Overnight in Shediac.
Activity:The Hopewell Rocks is located along the Bay of Fundy,
home of the highest tides in the world. Visitors to the
tidal wash area offers a unique natural experience of
both high and low tides. Included is admission to the
multi-media exhibit in the Interpretive Centre, scenic
walking trails and lookouts.
Day 14: Shediac to Caraquet
Heading up the coast of New Brunswick you may choose to visit Bouctouche Bay Eco-Tourism Site, preserving and restoring one of the few remaining great sand dunes on the north-eastern coastline of North America. Alternatively, you may wish to consider stopping at the Kouchibouguac National Park visitor centre for an interactive presentation of the wide variety of forests, marshes and lagoons indicative of the Maritime Plain ecosystem. Continue on to Caraquet where the remainder of the day is yours to explore this pleasant waterside community of the shores of Chaleur Bay. Overnight in Shediac.
Activity:Renowned for the authentic character of its recreation of history and the warm welcome it reserves for its visitors, the Village Historique Acadien recalls the life of our Acadian ancestors from 1770 to 1949. More than 40 historic buildings, occupied and animated by interpreters in period costumes, give an impression of going back in time, of a brief travel through history. Each of the inhabitants has a story to tell, a craft or custom to bring to life. Take the time to savour this unique experience.
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Activity:Visit the “the lobster capital of the world†and experience the lively charms of Acadia hospitality in this beautiful coastal area. On this ocean cruise you will learn to haul real lobster traps, prepare them in the traditional Shediac way, and finally savour a mouthwatering lobster dinner on board an authentic Atlantic fishing boat. Cool salt-water breezes, sparkling blue waters and warm smiles make this Atlantic adventure a seaside treat.
Day 15: Caraquet to Perce
Today the road follows the southern shores of the Baie des Chaleurs and the original lands of the Acadian people who were among those expelled from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick in 1760. Passing through seaside resort town of Bonaventure, you may wish to visit the Acadian Historical Museum of Quebec, featuring the art and cultural artifacts of that displaced community. Crossing the provincial border back into Quebec, you arrive in Percé. Overlooking the waters of the river, this commercial centre of the Gaspe Peninsula marks where Jacques Cartier first took possession of the land for France in 1534. Overnight on Percé.
Day 16:Perce
Once the largest fishing port in the Gaspé Peninsula, Percé is now the gem of the entire Gaspé region as a resort and tourist town and renowned for the extraordinary beauty of its surroundings. Its prominent geological feature is a great rock pierced with a hole, from which the community derived its name. The town has a delightful selection of restaurants and cafes, some of the best in the region as well as a summer theatre programme and a boardwalk that stretches along the south beach. At the wharf you can watch the fishermen cleaning their daily catch. Overnight in Percé.
Activity: Join a 1-hour discovery cruise of the majestic Percé Rock and the seabird sanctuary on Bonaventure Island. The cruise boat takes passengers up close to the rock and the island to admire the scenic beauty while observing fascinating wildlife. There is an opportunity for a 2-hour visit Bonaventure Island to view the over 150,000 seabirds in their natural environment. Commentary is in English and French.
Day 17: Perce to Matane
Passing by the wide headwaters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, you begin to follow the river of the same name as its waters flow by out to sea. Perhaps divert inland a short distance for a pleasant drive or short outing in Parc de la Gaspésie – one of the most beautiful and accessible protected lands in eastern Canada. Continue on to pass through the lush and historic farmlands of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, one of the first and most prominent early Catholic churches in the New World. Although most of the original building has been destroyed by subsequent fires over the last 150 years, it has been immaculately restored and is an unforgettable sight for all visitors. Arrive in Matane where the rest of the day is at leisure to discover the charms of this francophone town. Overnight in Matane.
Day 18: Matane to Tadoussac
This morning you board the ferry in Matane and cross the wide waters of the St. Lawrence to Baie- Comeau. During your sailing, you may see some of the Great Lakes shipping vessels that continue to use the waterway as a viable transportation route for heavy goods into the interior Great Lakes. Upon debarking at Baie-Comeau, the scenic north shore of the river offers a day of discovery through picture-perfect waterside towns. Les Escoumins is considered one of the most beautiful villages of the Haute-Côte-Nord region, located along the riverside at the gate to the Parc Marin du Saguenay. During the summer months, whales may be glimpsed from the shores of the village on their migratory or feeding routes. Arrive in the town of Tadoussac at the confluence of two mighty rivers. Overnight in Tadoussac.
Day 19: Tadoussac to Quebec City
Today as you travel into the heart of Quebec, you are retracing the route of early European explores as they pushed into the interior along inter-tribal trade and hunting routes used by the First Nations peoples for thousands of years. Furthermore, the towns and villages such as Beaupre, Baie-St-Paul and Saint- Simeon that have grown up along the banks of the river reflect a comparatively recent 300-year history of both French and English empires, leaving their mark on the architecture and the local cultures. As the river narrows, the spires and fortifications of Quebec City come into view, quickly dominating the riverside landscape. Overnight in Quebec City.
Activity: Aboard a comfortable cruise ship, the Groupe Dufour invites participants to join them for a whale watching cruise on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. The mixing of the waters from the two rivers creates the perfect feeding ground for many varieties of whales, including the often – playful humpback whale. The tour is also offered aboard a Zodiac (semi rigid hull), including all safety equipment and instruction. The tour is conducted in English and French.
Day 20: Quebec City
Today you depart on a comprehensive orientation tour of historic and modern Quebec City. The cobblestone streets still resonate with the long histories of French and English empires that formed the foundation of Canada. The walled city is one of the finest examples of a colonial fortified city in the world. On this guided tour, you will see the Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham, the Citadel, the Fortifications, the National Assembly, Place Royale, the Basilica and other points of interest within Quebec City. The remainder of the day is free to independently explore the sights of sounds of the city. The local restaurateurs have refined dining to a fine art and invite all visitors to sample the indulgent local dishes, or experience the delights of fusion menus that combine ingredients and preparations from around the world. Overnight in Quebec City.
Day 21:Â Quebec City
Today your package comes to an end as you proceed to either Quebec City or Montreal International Airports for your flight home.
|
Day |
Standard Accomodation |
Superior Accomodation |
Location |
|
1 & 2 |
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre or Courtyard by Marriott Toronto |
Eaton Chelsea Toronto or Sheraton Centre Toronto |
Toronto |
|
3 & 4 |
Days Inn Montreal Downtown or Le Nouvel Hotel & Spa |
Hyatt Regency Montreal or Delta Montreal |
Montreal Day 4 - Start of 18 day itinerary |
|
5 |
Hotel L\' Oiselière Montmagny or Hotel Le Florimay |
Hotel L\' Oiselière Montmagny or Hotel Le Florimay |
Montmagny |
|
6 |
Auberge Les Jardins Inn or Best Western Plus Edmundston Hotel |
Auberge Les Jardins Inn or Best Western Plus Edmundston Hotel |
Edmundston, NB |
|
7&8 |
St Andrews Motor Inn or Rossmount Inn |
Auberge Les Jardins Inn or Best Western Plus Edmundston Hotel |
St. Andrews-by-the- Sea, NB |
|
9 |
Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa |
Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa |
Digby |
|
10 |
Atlantica Hotel Halifax or Hampton Inn by Hilton |
The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites or Delta Halifax |
Halifax |
|
11&12 |
Inverary Resort |
Auberge Gisele\'s Inn or Silver Dart Lodge & MacNeil House Suites |
Badeck |
|
13 |
Hotel Shediac or Maison Taït House |
Hotel Shediac or Maison Taït House |
Shediac |
|
14 |
Motel Super 8 Caraquet or Auberge de la Baie Caraquet
|
Motel Super 8 Caraquet or Auberge de la Baie Caraquet |
Caraquet |
|
15 &16 |
Riotel Percé or Hotel Motel Le Mirage |
Riotel Percé or Hotel Motel Le Mirage |
Perce |
|
17 |
Riotel Matane or Hotel Motel Belle Plage |
Riotel Matane or Hotel Motel Belle Plage |
Matane |
|
18 |
Hotel Motel Le Beluga or Hotel Motel Restaurant Georges or Maison Gauthier, Les Suites de l\'Anse & Maison Hovington |
Hotel Tadoussac or Hotel Motel Le Beluga or Hotel Motel Restaurant Georges |
Tadoussac |
|
19&20 |
Delta Quebec or Hotel Le Concorde |
Hotel Manoir Victoria or Hotel Palace Royal |
Quebec |
|
21 |
|
|
End of Tour |
• Accommodation for 20 or 17 nights
• Ferry Crossing (under height car and passengers)Â
• Day 18 or Day 15, Matane, Quebec to Baie Comeau, Quebec (2.5
hours)
• Day 20 or Day 17, 2-hour sightseeing tour of Quebec CityÂ
• A personalised Jonview Canada Roadbook, containing essential travel
information featuring overview notes of the area of     travel, local
sightseeing and attractions, daily itinerary highlights, provincial maps
with city guides, hotel vouchers and         customised day-by-day routing
maps
• Provincial Taxes and Federal GST and/or HST, less tour package rebate
 NOT INCLUDEDÂ
• Airport transfers
• Ferry Crossing on Day 9 or Day 6, St. John, New Brunswick to Digby,
Nova Scotia (2.5 hours)Â
• Meals and attractions unless otherwise specified
• Car rental, taxes and insurance
• Fuel