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A Stroll Down the Governors Promenade Quebec City

The Governors Promenade (Promenade des Gouverneurs) is a giant boardwalk in Quebec City that connects the Plains of Abraham Park to the Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin). The Dufferin Terrace is close to the famous Chateau Frontenac hotel, the Funicular, and the Breakneck Stairs that connects Upper Town to Lower Town. The elevated promenade stretches along the Citadel with the fortification wall on one side, and a gorgeous view of the St. Lawrence River on the opposite side. You can start at either end of the boardwalk. This is a great free activity where you can get some exercise, enjoy the scenery, and make your way from one destination to another.

We really didn’t plan it this way, but we started at the Plains of Abraham. This is kind of like cheating in a way. Walking the Governors’ Promenade usually ensures that you climb a whole bunch of uphill staircases and steps – at least over 300. However, since we started at the Plains of Abraham side after walking around the Fortifications & the Citadel, we ended up walking down the stairs the entire time! It doesn’t really matter what you do. If you’re into completing the full stair climbing experience, start at Chateau Frontenac! If you’re there more for the view and less for the exercise, start at the Plains of Abraham. No matter which way you end up going, it is guaranteed that when you visit Quebec City, you’re going to end up climbing a whole lot of stairs anyway – it’s an extremely hilly city with many stairways!

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The Plains of Abraham, our starting point.

We found the Governors’ Promenade where the Citadel meets the Plains of Abraham park along the cliff edge. The Battle of Abraham was fought here many years ago; now, the area is a sprawling park with many picnic tables and trees. The Plains of Abraham is a great place to relax or have a picnic in the sunshine.

View of the city from the Plains of Abraham

We walked down the boardwalk and enjoyed the views of the river. We could see straight across to the island of Lévis as we slowly sauntered along, fully absorbing our surroundings. We saw many people jogging and walking, mostly in the opposite direction than we were going! The path really wasn’t very busy. We walked at our own pace stopping many times for photos. Thankfully, it was a gorgeous day outside and the sun was shining brightly.

The view behind us where someone is jogging up the steps.

And we arrived back at the Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin), a giant boardwalk with many shaded pavilions. It is where Chateau Frontenac is located, and where you can travel between Upper Town and Lower Town using the Funicular car or the Breakneck Stairs.

Mary Solio

Friday 5th of September 2014

What a beautiful day for a lovely stroll at this promenade. I have really enjoyed seeing all your Quebec posts and the variety of things you've shown us. I'm sure exercise here is a welcome change. Those boardwalk looks awesome and so clean!

Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren

Thursday 11th of September 2014

Thanks!! Yes, it is a city where you can get lots of exercise, but in the best way possible as there are always nice things to look at, it doesn't really feel like exercise much of the time!

East Meets West Veg

Thursday 4th of September 2014

So beautiful! I see why my husband keeps telling me that I need to see Quebec!

Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren

Thursday 11th of September 2014

Oh yes! You should go to Quebec!!

Chris Boothman

Tuesday 2nd of September 2014

Really cool guys! I am loving how many things you are adding to our Quebec City bucket list...the more you add, the more likely we are to return there to check them out for ourselves. One thing that I loved about our time in Quebec City was how many high points there are in the city that provide breathtaking views both over the city and surrounding areas, across the St. Lawrence River.

Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren

Thursday 11th of September 2014

I'm glad that we are adding things to your possible future itinerary for Quebec City! You will have to let me know if you end up returning! Also - if you guys ever come up to Toronto, let me know and we'll meet up!

Jenna

Tuesday 2nd of September 2014

I think you made a good choice going down the stairs even if it was an accident! :) Looks like a great path with some beautiful views of the city!

Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren

Thursday 11th of September 2014

Yes, it was a pretty good accident ;)

Mytanfeet

Monday 1st of September 2014

Ooh so pretty! Haha a little bit of work is always required to get a great view but it's definitely worth it!

Lauren | Justin Plus Lauren

Thursday 11th of September 2014

That is so true! The views are always worthwhile!