CANADA EAST - Ontario and Quebec: Off the Beaten Path

Standing on the shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is not afraid to show off its wealth: its skyline juts with shining skyscrapers, under the futurist steeple of the CN Tower.

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, stands between the British identity of Toronto and the French heritage of Montreal – both physically and historically. It’s one of the most unique cities in the country. The seat of the Canadian Parliament and a cultural centre of importance, Ottawa is a pleasant town, brimming with parks.

Killarney is a small town in the province of Ontario, on the northern coast of Georgian Bay, famous for its beautiful natural landscape and for being the gateway to Killarney Provincial Park. The provincial park is renowned for its spectacular white quartz rock formations, crystal clear lake waters and dense forests, making it a popular destination for hikers, canoeists and nature lovers. Founded in 1820 as a fishing centre, Killarney has retained its rustic and cosy charm. The village is known for its breathtaking sunsets, wildlife viewing opportunities and outdoor activities such as fishing, sailing and camping. In addition, Killarney offers picturesque accommodation and restaurants serving fresh seafood, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature.

Huntsville, the gateway to Algonquin Provincial Park, delights with lakes, forests, and a vibrant arts scene. It's a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering canoeing, hiking, and fishing in summer and snowshoeing in winter. The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery features stunning artworks inspired by Canada's nature.

We leave Huntsville and Agolquin Provincial Park behind us, and travel through the beautiful Muskoka area and past small villages and quaint towns such as Whitney and Barry's Bay. Continuing east, you pass through lush forests, rivers and lakes, with occasional scenic rest stops ideal for taking in the scenery. The stage offers a mix of natural beauty and rural views before arriving in the vibrant and historic city of Ottawa, with its museums, art galleries and iconic Parliament Hill. Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, stands between the British identity of Toronto and the French heritage of Montreal – both physically and historically. It’s one of the most unique cities in the country. The seat of the Canadian Parliament and a cultural centre of importance, Ottawa is a pleasant town, brimming with parks.

Standing in a wonderfully panoramic location on Cap Diamant, overlooking the Saint Lawrence, Québec is the city with the oldest tradition in Canada. It’s also the only Northern American city that still boasts walls, bastions and buttresses, as well as many churches and convents, thus deserving the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Québec takes pride in its deeply-rooted French tradition.

The journey from Quebec City to Montreal offers an experience through the beautiful Quebec countryside. Along Autoroute 20 or Autoroute 40, the main highways linking the two cities, we pass through various landscapes, from green hills to open plains, with the St. Lawrence River accompanying much of the journey. Arriving in Montréal, the difference between the two cities is striking: so much Quebec is tied to its religious and military past, so much Montréal appears international, dynamic and progressive. Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal) is the historic heart of the city, located along the Saint Lawrence River. Known for its cobblestone streets and well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century buildings, it has a distinctly European atmosphere. The area is home to iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Basilica, Place d’Armes, and the Old Port, and offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, cafés, and galleries.