Atop Cap Diamant (Cape Diamond), at the city’s highest point, the Citadelle overlooks Old Québec, the St. Lawrence River, and the Plains of Abraham. There have been defensive structures here as early as the French period—in fact, the location of Québec City was chosen because Samuel de Champlain saw the strategic advantages that Cap Diamant offered. The fortifications you see today, however, date to the 19th century: They were built after a failed attempt by Americans to conquer Québec City during the War of 1812. Students of World War II history may be familiar with the Citadelle as the site of the Québec Conferences, when Winston Churchill, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Canada‘s prime minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King, met to plan their countries’ strategies during the war. The Citadelle is still an active military base; the museum inside is devoted to the 22nd Regiment, which makes its headquarters here.
Olivier Lavigne Ortiz, courtesy Ville de Quebec
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Urban hiking with stunning views
Just navigating the Old City is an urban hike in of itself; with hundreds of stairs and steep inclines, many people choose to take on the city with hiking poles! But if you are looking for a bit more of an urban hiking experience, trek up the Governors Promenade and end at the Citadel—the ruins offer one of the most stunning views back on the showpiece Chateau Frontenac and the majesty of the Old City.
Picnic in the Park
After you’ve walked around the picturesque streets of Quebec and your legs start to tire, pick up some food and drink for a relaxing picnic at La Citadelle. The view is incredible - enjoy!
