The Hotel de Glace, the only ice hotel of its kind in North America, is an architectural marvel, built entirely from snow and ice each winter. Tours of the hotel allow visitors to see the intricately carved bedrooms, a bar with ice glasses, and a chapel where wedding ceremonies are even held in extreme conditions. Although an overnight stay is only for the bravest and most prepared tourists, a daytime visit is a must for everyone to appreciate the craftsmanship of the builders and the beauty of the icy interiors. Nearby, the Valcartier amusement park boasts enormous ice slides where you can spend hours tubing, experiencing a rush of adrenaline and joy. Warm rest areas with drinks and food allow you to quickly recharge between descents, making the experience comfortable for children of all ages.
Quebec’s cuisine is especially hearty and warming in winter, offering dishes that have become symbols of the province, such as poutine, tourtière, and maple desserts. Restaurants in the old part of the city serve traditional lunches in cast-iron pots, keeping the food warm for a long time, perfect for the cold season. Tasting maple syrup directly on the snow (tire sur la neige) is a sweet tradition adored by children, as the hot syrup hardens on the ice, turning into a taffy treat. Markets and fairs offer local cheeses, sausages, and pastries, supporting farmers and discovering the region’s authentic flavors. Cooking classes on crepes and pie-making allow families to learn how to prepare Québécois dishes at home and take the recipes home with them.
A walk along a frozen river or ice fishing is a unique experience available near Québec City and Montreal during the coldest months. Specially equipped ice villages offer heated igloos, where you can fish in warmth and comfort while sipping hot coffee. Snowmobile tours on marked trails allow you to cover long distances and see winter landscapes inaccessible to pedestrians or cars. Instructors ensure safety and provide the necessary equipment, including warm overalls and helmets, so even beginners feel confident on the equipment. Such adventures bring families together, giving them a sense of shared overcoming of the elements and the joy of active outdoor pastime.
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