Compare Quebec: Cobblestones, Waterfalls and Woodcarvers by Road Scholar vs Best of the Canadian Maritimes by Intrepid Travel

Day 1
Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier D Auberge du Mont
Activity note: Check-in after 2:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Brief introductions of the participants and coordinators between 4:30 - 5:30 pm. A short slide presentation will let you know all about the site as well take you on a "virtual hike" through the trails.

Dinner: Dinner is at the Auberge du Mont at 6:00 p.m. and is served cafeteria style. Dinner includes a salad bar, soup, choice of two main dishes, vegetables, dessert, tea, coffee, etc. Wine is not sold on the premises, but there is a good selection at the local store and you are free to bring your own. We can provide a corkscrew and wine glasses. We do not organize a "happy hour" before meals, but participants may organize something if desired.

Evening: After dinner we will take a look at the whole week ahead; speakers, field trips and other activities. We will also let you know how to make the Auberge du Mont your "home away from home" for the week (laundry, phone, internet, etc.). In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Free time is reserved for your personal independent exploration. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, engaging in available activities on your own, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Day 2
Historical Overview, Old Quebec City
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier B,L,D Auberge du Mont
Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking up to 1 mile on pavement, cobblestones.

Breakfast: At the Auberge du Mont. Breakfasts are served cafeteria style and offer a variety of choices: cereal, muffins, eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, pancakes, etc. The only thing lacking is willpower! Early morning coffee is available.

Morning: Your day begins with an overview of Quebec history from the early explorers, through New France and the British conquest to today's political questions. Our regular speaker, Dr. John Keyes masterfully delivers more than 400 years of information with his light and humorous touch. This session will provide the much needed background information to begin your exploration of Quebec, its history, culture, conflicts and future.

Lunch: At the Auberge du Mont. Served cafeteria style, lunch includes a salad bar, soup, choice of two main dishes, vegetables, dessert, tea, coffee, etc.

Afternoon: We depart from the Auberge du Mont after lunch. Your learning starts right away with interpretive commentary about the area as we travel to Quebec City. Once in the city, a local guide will join us for a two-hour bus excursion including stops in Old Quebec and in the beautiful city park, the Plains of Abraham. Following the coach exploration, you will have time to explore Old Quebec on your own. The field trip coordinator will be available all day to answer questions, direct you to specific locations, and offer any help needed.

Dinner: Dinner is always at a well-known restaurant in Old Quebec. Usually we go to "Aux Anciens Canadiens" which is located in the oldest building in Old Quebec, a short walk from the bus drop-off/pick-up point. The ambiance of Old Quebec and choice of menu items, including traditional Quebecois cuisine, make for a delightful experience.

Evening: The bus leaves Old Quebec at about 7:15 pm, permitting a brief after-dinner stroll along the 18th century streets or upon the terrace overlooking the scenic St. Lawrence River.

Day 3
Museum of Civilization, Free Afternoon, House Party
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier B,D Auberge du Mont
Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking up to 1 mile on pavement, some standing.

Breakfast: At the Auberge.

Morning: We depart from the Auberge du Mont on a school bus refitted with comfortable “captain seats”. We will take a different route to Quebec City, this time traveling along the Jacques Cartier River through the picturesque village of Tewkesbury. In Old Quebec you will visit the world-class Museum of Civilization. We recommend the exhibits, “People of Quebec …then and now”, the story of Quebec from New France to today, and “Encounters with the First Nations” a look at the Native People in Quebec. Other exhibits may attract your attention or you may wish to visit the rooftop gardens. For more information about the museum, visit the website: www.mcq.org (Click the button for the English version at the top right of the screen.)

Lunch: Enjoy lunch on your own. You may take advantage of the museum cafe featuring delicious salads, soups and paninis, or visit one of the many restaurants and cafes in Old Quebec. Don't overlook the option of a sumptuous French pastry and bowl of Cafe au lait!

Afternoon: Take some free time to explore Quebec City independently. Options include: A 90-min. narrated cruise on the St. Lawrence River aboard the Louis Jolliet, approx. $35 (http://croisieresaml.com) Go to cruises – Quebec City – Maritime Excursion); A round-trip ride on the Quebec-Levis Ferry, approx. $3 – takes about 45 minutes and offers a scenic view of Old Quebec and fantastic photo-ops: Exploring Old Quebec on foot - historic sites and shopping; or stay at the museum for further exploration of the exhibits.

Dinner: At the Auberge.

Evening: This evening we invite you to a “House Party”! With the help of local musicians and members of the community we will recreate the ambiance of this very fine Valcartier tradition. More than a concert, you will be able to interact with the musicians and learn about the tunes that are unique to this area … tunes that are accented with both the Irish and French musical traditions. Whether a step-dancer or a sit-and–watcher, we hope you will have fun and feel like you’ve experienced the heart of this community.

Day 4
Woodcarving at St-Jean-Port-Joli, Sugar Shack
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier B,L,D Auberge du Mont
Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking up to 1 mile on pavement, mostly even terrain.

Breakfast: At the Auberge.

Morning: This coordinator led activity is designed to create an atmosphere of fellowship, fun and laughter. If you have always dreaded the "get to know you" games, rest assured that so have we. This activity, however, is a proven highlight.

Lunch: At the Auberge.

Afternoon: The coach bus departs for St-Jean-Port-Joli, the "woodcarving capital of the world". Your guide is your Road Scholar coordinator who delights in helping you to discover the treasures of his native village. The scenic drive along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River offers a look at the rural life just beyond the city limits. The first stop in Saint-Jean-Port-Joli is at the woodcarving museum “Le Musée des Anciens Canadiens” (http://www.museedesancienscanadiens.com) Learn about the woodcarving unique to this region with a local guide and have the opportunity to interact with a woodcarver as he demonstrates his art.

Dinner: At a restaurant in St.-Jean-Port-Joli.

Evening: Our last stop is at a "cabane à sucre” (maple sugarhouse) in the foothills of the Appalachians. Although syrup is made only in the early spring, we will be able to have a tasting experience, see the sugaring installation and learn about the process of transforming maple sap to something sweet.

Day 5
Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre, Isle of Orleans, Montmorency Falls
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier B,L,D Auberge du Mont
Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach. Walking up to 1 mile on pavement, mostly even ground.

Breakfast: At the Auberge.

Morning: We depart from the Auberge du Mont on a coach bus for our fourth all-day trip. After travelling along the Beaupre Coast, the "cradle of New France", we visit the Basilica of Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre. This beautiful and massive church can be likened to Lourdes, a place known for miraculous healings. The numerous mosaics covering ceiling, walls and floor are more than worth a viewing. Over a million and a half tourists and pilgrims visit each year. You will learn about the origins of this church in 1658, the transformations over the years, the stories behind some of the decorative embellishments, and about some of the rites and traditions unique to this important site. On the hillside next to the basilica, the Stations of the Cross wind their way up a beautiful path overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Each station is represented by a life size bronze sculpture. Combining "cathedral grandeur" with the down-to-earth spirit of Quebec, this site speaks to all, regardless of one's personal religious affiliation.

Lunch: At La Goéliche in Ste-Petronille. This exquisite restaurant is located on the western end of the Isle of Orleans and by the St. Lawrence River where you can watch the ships travelling in and out of Quebec.

Afternoon: During the first part of the afternoon, we will be visiting the western tip of the Isle of Orleans, known as the bread basket of the Quebec City region. We will learn about the importance of this rural island to the earliest European settlement and how it continues to play an important role in the lives of Quebecers today. We will be stopping in one of the six island villages to be treated to a magnificent view of Quebec City. From this vantage point, one can truly appreciate Quebec City's early nickname, "The Rock". Our final stop will be at Montmorency Falls which towers 83 meters above the St. Lawrence River. The view from the bridge over the top of the falls is unforgettable. In addition to its stunning beauty, this site is considered a "Hot Spot" to geologists and you will learn of its geological importance as well as its story within the history of Quebec.

Dinner: At the Auberge.

Evening: A relaxed evening of fellowship and fun. The program varies from week to week but always includes a "French Exam" which we guarantee you will pass with flying colors!

Day 6
Program Concludes
Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier B
Activity note: Check-out is 12:00 p.m.

Breakfast: At the Auberge du Mont at 7:30 - 8:30. Early morning coffee available.

Morning: Participants depart according to individual travel plans. Check-out is 12:00 p.m. This concludes our program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please be in touch via the Road Scholar Social Network, where you can share memories, pictures and comments. Best wishes for all your journeys.

Day 1 Halifax / Lunenburg

Welcome to Halifax! Your tour starts today with a welcome meeting at 10am before you head to historic Lunenburg on the South Shore, one of only two urban communities in North America designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Mahone Bay and nearby Blue Rocks on a leader-led walking tour and learn about this old fishing community that’s become a hub for artists and photographers. Enjoy some free time exploring the old town centre, which is a National Historic Site of Canada. And since Lunenburg was a rum-running town in the days of Prohibition, make sure you take the time to sample of the local brews. Head back to Halifax in the late afternoon and meet later in the evening for an optional dinner if you wish.

Day 2 Halifax

Take a trip to famous Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village that is one of the most photographed places in all of Canada – for good reason! Rocky outcrops, the crashing Atlantic, colourful fishing boats and that famous red-tipped lighthouse are what you expect to see on Maritimes postcards. Follow your local leader along the Peggy’s Cove Rock Walk, which meanders along the barren coastline that glaciers created some 12,000 years ago. Grab lunch in the village (your own expense) – perhaps a creamy seafood chowder or fresh lobster roll.

Day 3 Baddeck

Today you will drive from Halifax to Baddeck, but not without a stop at the excellent Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Center. Located in the heart of a development owned by Millbrook First Nation, it tells the story of the Millbrook Mi’kmaq and the important role they played and continue to play in the Maritimes. Don’t miss the gift shop which sells beautiful traditional arts and crafts. On arrival in Baddeck, relax and settle into your hotel before we head for an included dinner together.

Day 4 Baddeck

Today offers a big day of discovery and adventure. Start with a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to gain insight into the life and work of this inventor, scientist, and teacher who is arguably best known for inventing the telephone. Then drive along the Cabot Trail and stop for a leisurely hike within Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The Skyline Trail is the park’s signature hike, which leads out to spectacular sweeping views over the sea. If it’s a nice day for driving, your leader will take you further along the Cabot Trail – a 4 hours’ drive, but with plenty of beautiful stops along the way. Enjoy a picnic lunch while you’re out along the trail before returning to Baddeck for the night.

Day 5 Charlottetown

Drive from Baddeck to Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island and the smallest provincial capital in the country. It’s the perfect destination to explore on foot when you arrive in the late afternoon. Stroll alongside the picturesque harbour or take in the leafy parks and Victorian-era streets lined with gabled houses. Tonight you may like to join your group for an optional dinner and toast your adventure.

Day 6 Charlottetown

An orientation meeting will take place at 10am this morning to welcome any new travellers joining you for the next leg of your journey, then head out with your leader for a walking tour of the town. Finish with a tasting at Upstreet Brewing – a fellow B Corp business that brews a mix of classic, seasonal and experimental craft beers. Your afternoon is free to wander on your own before regrouping in the evening for a truly special dinner. Head out along the stunning Points East Coastal Drive (approximately 45 minutes) to meet a local fisherman and enjoy a traditional lobster and mussel boil on his private property.

Day 7 Charlottetown

Drive from Charlottetown to the Greenwich section of Prince Edward Island National Park, home to a rare parabolic dune system as well as miles of pristine white sand beaches. Located along the famous Points East Coastal Drive, Greenwich is the perfect place to discover the small towns, beaches and wildlife that make Prince Edward Island so unique. As you walk the dune trail and dip your toes in the surf, look out for rare coastal plant species and a variety of seabirds.

Day 8 Summerside

This morning visit Lennox Island First Nation to meet with a Mi'kmaq guide for a tour of the cultural center and St. Anne church. Immerse yourself in Mi'kmaq culture and history, and learn the traditional way of preparing bannnock at a campfire. Settle in with a cup of tea and soak up the stories about life on Lennox Island. Then drive to nearby Cavendish where L.M. Montgomery famously drew her inspiration for the “Anne of Green Gables” novels. Visit Green Gables Heritage Place and explore the area on a walking tour (with a focus on Anne, of course!). Then, check out the very cool Bottle Houses – a village of buildings, including a tavern, a chapel and gift shop, that are literally made out of thousands of bottles. At spectacular Thunder Cove Beach the sandstone cliffs, sea stacks and caves make for an otherworldly landscape that most visitors to Prince Edward Island totally miss. Spend the night in the coastal city of Summerside.

Day 9 Moncton

Enjoy a free morning exploring Summerside on your own. You may want to check out the local museums, galleries and cultural centres, or you can just wander through the neighbourhoods of historic homes. Then get your sea legs ready! Today you’re cruising the waters of Shediac Bay on a working lobster boat with local fishers. Get a hands-on demonstration of lobster fishing and enjoy a delicious freshly caught lunch on board. After lunch, drive to Moncton and your hotel for the night.

Day 10 Saint John

Cross over into New Brunswick and make your way to the postcard-perfect Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park. Arrive for low tide and join a naturalist guide for a walk right out onto the sea floor and get up close to the towering sandstone formations known as the Hopewell Rocks, or Flowerpot Rocks. When the tide comes in, waters in the bay can reach up to 16 metres, so a trip here is all about timing and your local leader will make sure you get the most out of your visit. In the afternoon, take a quick detour to spectacular Cap Enrage with its charming lighthouse before continuing on to explore Fundy National Park. Then it's a short drive onwards to the historic seaport city of Saint John, where you’ll stay for the night.

Day 11 Saint John

Your tour ends today, and you are free to leave at your leisure. Or, if you like, stick around and explore the city of Saint John and more of the Maritimes on your own.