7 Ways to Make the Most of Our Winter Wonderland

From early December to mid-March, Old Québec is like a fairyland Christmas village of lights, decorations, snow, and enchanting European architecture. Delightful! The smells of cinnamon, gingerbread, and sausages from the German Christmas Market waft through the streets of the historic district while Grande Allée is abuzz in anticipation of the New Year’s outdoor festivities.

Québec City is like a fairytale winter wonderland brought to life! Seeing the charming historical buildings covered in a dusting of snow was absolutely magical. I felt like I was living inside a snow globe during my entire stay, and it continually took my breath away as I wandered the quaint streets.

- Caroline Ikeji, Pictures and Words, California

Québec’s one-of-a-kind Hôtel de Glace is the only place in North America where you can sip an aperitif in a bar at -5°C, enjoy a cozy night’s sleep in a room made entirely of ice, and tie the knot in a frost-covered chapel. Enter a magical, mesmerizing world of ice and snow!

This big winter celebration has been warming hearts since 1955 with a host of traditions that celebrate the city’s French Canadian roots. It’s the best time to celebrate with the locals, who will be eager for you to try some caribou liquor, blow the Carnival trumpet, and don an arrow sash.  Watch a shiver-inducing ice canoe race across the St. Lawrence River (a form of transportation that dates back to New France), get swept up in the colours and spectacle of the night parades, and meet the friendly ambassador of this winter celebration, Bonhomme Carnaval!

With over 300 cm of snow most years, Quebecers have long since learned to love this gift from nature. When in Québec City, do as the Quebecers do! Try cross-country skiing in the heart of town or in the most beautiful sceneries. Discover the magnificent skating rinks all over the city. Snowshoe through snow-capped forests less than 30 minutes from downtown. Go dogsledding through stunning winter scenery. After an adventurous snowmobile ride, bond with new friends at the chalet over a hearty meal. There’s nothing like warm times after a fun day outside!

Get in touch with your inner child—give snowtubing a whirl! It’s a Québec winter tradition that’s fun for the whole family. Your ultimate adrenaline rush awaits at Village Vacances Valcartier, North America’s largest winter playground. with its thrill-a-second slides. Choose a one-person inner tube, a giant inner tube, or an inflatable raft. Outsized fun in the great outdoors! And right beside the Château Frontenac, try Glissades de la Terrasse, a toboggan run like you’ve never experienced. The clifftop views will blow your mind!

Just a snowball’s throw from the city await spectacular ski runs, some with jaw-dropping views of the St. Lawrence River. Why not give night skiing a go? Carving down the illuminated slopes is a unique experience—one that wouldn’t be complete without getting into Québec City’s festive après-ski scene and making new friends.

Winter is also a time for getting snug and cozy. Have a seat by the fireplace at the chalet with a nice glass of wine. Share a meal with friends or spend the day in your wool socks playing your favourite board game. Cap off your stay with a visit to a Nordic spa. There’s nothing like alternating between hot and cold to relax you after a full day!