Chateau Frontenac

Chateau Frontenac, the iconic hotel, stands high above the Saint Lawrence River. It's gorgeous Chateauesque-style turrets and dormers give it a fairytale air. It is the focal point of all views of Old Quebec, and to see it peaking up above the old buildings as you walk around town adds to your joy. 

In front of the hotel, tourists watch street performers at the Monument Samuel-De-Champlain. Happy lovers stroll along Dufferin Terrace, the wide wooden boardwalk above the river. Six stripey gazebos dot the terrace, acting as meeting points to take in the views of the river. You can look through the leafy green branches of the maple trees at the blue river, and tilt your head to see way down below, the Lower Town. 
At the side of the hotel you can buy an ice cream and take in the happy sights from Parc des Gouverneurs, a glorious spot above Dufferin Terrace. There is also a sandwich place called Au 1884, in one of the stripey gazebos (kiosques), where you can buy a snack. Starbucks has a small patio looking out on Monument Samuel-De-Champlain. If you need a clean restroom, go inside the hotel (the front door accessed from the car pull-in area).
Inside the hotel, you are treated to rich blue hues, dark wood, and gold accents. At any time you might be lucky to see a princess dressed in a royal blue gown, or a man dressed as king strolling up to a brass band, playing in the lobby! It's definitely worth it to pop into the hotel to see what you find.
The front entrance to the hotel leads off from Rue des Carrieres (where Parc des Gouverneurs is located) and Rue Saint-Louis, an adorable street with many hotels, indoor cafes (always filled by reservation), and historic rowhouses. Just down the hill from Monument Samuel-De-Champlain, Rue Sainte-Anne also has many eateries, with lovely leafy patios, that are full by reservation. You can usually get a table outside at Le Chic Shack,with amazing views of the Chateau- their burgers and fries are greasy but their salads are good. Around the corner, check out another amazing building, City Hall, where children shriek with laughter at the splash pad in the gardens. 
Don't miss out on seeing the best place in Quebec City, a giant hill with sweeping views called Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace! It is where the photo above is taken. You can get there at the far end of Dufferin Terrace, but it's better accessing it from above, by a walk from the Citadel. 
Chateau Frontenac opened in 1893. It is 18 floors high. It is expensive to stay there, but many people love its amazing location. In winter this area becomes a winter wonderland with glowing lights. In fall, you look at the river through orange leaves.

Directions

Chateau Frontenac is located at 1 Rue des Carrières, Québec City.

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