Québec
Québec is known as la belle province, “the beautiful province”, and it lives up to its name through its landscapes, its people and its culture.
Extending nearly 2,000km (1,242mi) from north to south, Québec is the largest province in Canada and offers some fantastic travel opportunities for people from near and far.
Every year millions of people are drawn to the festivals in Montréal, the history in Québec City, the lakes and forests around the province and the fierce tundra of the Northern regions. With such a diversity and each region offering it’s own unique treasures, it is easy to see why the province was listed among the top 20 best tourist destinations in the world.
Québec borders the Canadian province of Ontario on the west and the provinces of New Brunswick and Newfoundland & Labrador on the east. South of Québec is the USA, with the states of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. The province is made out of three regions, the Canadian Shield, St. Lawrence Lowlands and Appalachian Mountains. The province is home of over seven million people, with most of the population living around the St. Lawrence River. The river links Québec to the Atlantic Ocean and is 3360km (2,089mi). long. Aside from the St Lawrence, Québec has more than a one million lakes and waterways. Forest covers half of the province.
The official language in Québec is French and is used by the majority of the population, although, particularly in cities like Montréal, Québec City and other urban centers, English is spoken and understood. History of the French however is maintained and can be seen in the little villages and the cobbled streets of Old Montréal. The motto of the province is “Je me souviens” which is French for “I remember”.
Travel along the St. Lawrence River, dotted with picturesque villages and beautiful countryside. Take a moment to journey along the many trails that the region has to offer. Explore the urban city of Montréal, with its many museums, parks, cafes and nightlife, this city has everything to offer. Québec City was named a world heritage site by UNESCO. Rich with history and culture, this city is a must-see.
In the North the Inuit, Cree, Algonquin and other natives still live their traditional lives in the wild tundra landscape. Visiting this region offers the great opportunity to learn more about their culture and way of life. Northern Québec is also home to a large variety of wildlife, such as the fascinating caribou.
An abundance of wildlife can not only be found in Northern Québec, but everywhere in the province. Enter one of the 27 national parks or 15 wildlife reserves where a variety of animals can be found. Many of these parks are ideal for bird watching and fishing, but also offer an abundance of nature and activities.
If you are an animal lover, do not miss Bonaventure Island, located at Percé, on Gaspé Peninsula, a sanctuary for more than 250,000 seabirds.
We invite you read on and learn more about what there is to see and do in the regions of the fascinating province of Québec. And start planning! Québec, the place to be all year long.
