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An immersion to the rich tapestry of Canada! Our recent family vacation was a whirlwind adventure that whisked us through charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. We started in Montreal, a vibrant city where French and English cultures beautifully blend. Quebec City then stole our hearts with its European charm. We wandered the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, marveling at the towering presence of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac hotel. Get ready to join us on a journey through breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences – our Canadian capers await!
From poutine to fjords: Our Canadian family vacation
MONTREAL
Our Montreal adventure started with a walking tour that highlighted the city’s fascinating duality. Spotting statues facing each other, symbolizing the harmony between French and English influences, was a great introduction. After the tour, we enjoyed a classic Montreal poutine for lunch, a must-try for any visitor! We weren’t limited to just the original, though. We enjoyed the variety offered at Montreal Poutine, trying options like smoked meat and even pica with chicken. For dinner, we stumbled upon Jardin Nelson, a delightful restaurant featuring food served in a colorful garden with live jazz music. In between these meals, we found a charming coffee shop, Crew Collective, located in the historic bank depicted in the movie “Catch Me If You Can.”
QUEBEC CITY
Quebec City was next on our itinerary. We captured some cherished family memories with a professional photoshoot, then embarked on a delicious adventure with “French onion soup” for lunch at Sapristi – a delicious classic! We strolled the charming pedestrian streets, marveled at the colorful Umbrella Alley, and even explored the landmark castle-like hotel! The Breakneck Steps provided a beautiful view, and the incline railway ride offered another perspective of the city. Outside of Quebec, we saved time for a stop to marvel at the awe-inspiring Montmorency Falls. The sheer power of the cascading water left us breathless.
SAGUENAY
Saguenay is a nature lover’s paradise. We drove through a mesmerizing forest of tall, thin pine trees, and even camped through a squall (an adventure in itself!). Our days were filled with relaxing in cozy coffee shops, swimming in tucked away lakes, and exploring the majestic Saguenay Fjord. We hiked alongside the fjord, took a boat tour for stunning views, and enjoyed a refreshing swim in its cool waters. Opia provided the perfect setting for a delicious farewell dinner.
DAY TRIPS FROM MONTREAL
Continuing our journey, the next day brought us a taste of Provence amidst the Canadian countryside. Maison Lavender offered a delightful sensory experience. We loved walking around the vibrant lavender fields, snapping photos to capture the beauty of the purple expanse. We indulged in lavender scones, refreshing lavender lemonade, and lavender-infused frozen yogurt – a must for anyone who loves this fragrant herb! KL Mainville Burger, a farm-to-table haven known for its ethically sourced ingredients, provided a delicious and guilt-free lunch option. Finally, we reached Mont Tremblant, a picturesque ski village nestled in the Laurentian Mountains. Here, we enjoyed a breathtaking cable car ride and a delightful Italian dinner with a garden view at A Mano Trattoria.
OTTAWA
Our final day in Ottawa was dedicated to cultural exploration. Little Victories Coffee Shop provided a perfect pre-museum pick-me-up, and the National Gallery of Canada captivated us with its impressive collection. We admired the works of the Group of Seven, Van Gogh, and Klimt, including the mesmerizing “Forest Slope with Unterach am Attersee.” A tour of the House of Commons offered a glimpse into Canadian politics.
Canada’s beauty, delicious food, and rich history left a lasting impression on our family. From bustling cities to serene natural landscapes, this trip had something for everyone. We can’t wait for our next family adventure!
The print shop
If you’d like to purchase photographs to remember your visit to Lisbon, please check out my print shop!
