The Canadian town of Boischatel is nestled on the peaceful shores of Montmorency River in Québec province. As this waterway heads toward the larger St. Lawrence River, it drops down a steep escarpment creating Montmorency Falls. The falls are higher than the famous Niagara Falls by 98 feet (30 meters). View the falls by taking a cable car to the top, crossing a suspended bridge or even riding a zip line. For a vigorous workout, climb 487 steps to a viewing area and see where the two rivers meet.
Just 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Quebec City, Boischatel is ideal for a daytrip from the capital. Before Boischatel, take the bridge to Île-d’Orléans, a 73-square-mile (190-square-kilometer) island in the St. Lawrence River. Cycle or drive the island’s network of roads, making frequent stops at artisan shops, boutiques and painters’ studios. Guided water tours are also available.
Continue along the road to the town of Château-Richer and its copper art museum, Albert Gilles Boutique et Musée. The original craftsman is responsible for embossed church doors and interior pieces that can be seen throughout Canada and the U.S. Today, family members keep this disappearing art alive. Choose a souvenir from a selection of pieces available at the shop.
In Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré, find Atelier Paré Economuseum of wood sculpture, which focuses on religious icons, scenes and characters from the province’s rich storytelling tradition. Watch works of art being created and purchase items in their store.
In the next town of Beaupré, winter sports are abundant at Mont-Sainte-Anne, eastern Canada’s highest ski location. During the rest of the year the area is popular for its hiking and mountain biking trails, the 18-hole par-72 Le Grand Vallon Golf Course and a gondola trip with panoramic views from the peak’s 2,600-foot (800-meter) summit.
Follow the road along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River to Boischatel and other locations. The area is also accessible by bus from the city.
