Canada’s Fall Colours in Ontario and Quebec

Overview

The colours of autumn burst from every bough, creating a kaleidoscope of hues in a dazzling display that acts as a dramatic backdrop to an adventurous journey through Ontario and Quebec. Beginning in Toronto, The route quickly travels into the vibrant forests of St. Lawrence valley to activity-rich resorts, historic cities of limestone and colonial architecture and wide canals dotted with fallen, multi-coloured leaves. A cruise of the 1000 Islands maximizes views of the fall colours as they reflect in the tranquil waters and vistas from the mountaintops of Quebec bathe the horizon in hues of every shade. A truly unique spectacle to behold for both casual outdoor enthusiasts and artists at heart.

What's Included:

  • Return flights to Canada from London Gatwick
  • 14 nights hotel accommodation, based on 2 sharing a room
  • 12 days car rental with zero excess, GPS and second driver fee
  • 1 hour Rockport sightseeing cruise (not included for departures 09-19 October)

Full Itinerary

Day 1: UK - TORONTO

Arrive at Pearson International Airport, Toronto and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. The Jonview Roadbook you received will have all the information needed for your holiday/trip/ journey. The remainder of day is at leisure for shopping at the Eaton Centre or perhaps sampling the fine cuisine and nightlife of Toronto.

Overnight in Toronto.

Day 2: TORONTO

Spend a second day in Canada’s most populous city. Known as a very walkable and livable urban centre, take some time to explore the main corridor of the downtown area. Leisurely wander the many neighbourhoods and urban parks that begin to show the colours of fall in the late summer and early autumn.

Overnight in Toronto.

Day 3: TORONTO TO KEENE / ELMHIRST'S RESORT (146 KM)

Collect your rental car this morning and head northeast of Toronto to the ‘cottage country’ belt that surrounds the city. In less than 2 hours of driving, the landscape transforms from an ultra-modern metropolis to idyllic cottage communities set along the waterfront of inviting, clear lakes. Spend the next two days in a private cottage, enjoying all the amenities of a sprawling lakeside resort.

Overnight at Elmhirst's Resort.

Day 4: KEENE / ELMHIRST'S RESORT - Annapolis Royal (85 miles)

Wake to the sounds of the water lapping along the shoreline as the sounds of the forest welcome you to a day of activity and adventure. All of the facilities of the resort are at your disposal – from canoes and kayaks, to barbeques, fire pits and sports equipment, or perhaps a visit to the onsite working farm. Take some time to hike the local trails as the trees begin to shed their summer greens for resplendent oranges and reds of fall.

Overnight at Elmhirst's Resort.

Day 5: KEENE / ELMHIRST'S RESORT TO KINGSTON / GANANOQUE (159 KM)

Heading southward, travel into the lush forests of the St. Lawrence basin and its dozens of rivers and waterways that converge into the massive St. Lawrence River. Embark on a spectacular cruise* of the 1000 Islands region – a river interspaced with countless small islands, creating a magical landscape surrounded by the changing leaves of the forests. Arrive in historic Kingston – one of the oldest cities in Canada.

Overnight in Kingston / Gananoque. *not included for departures Oct 9-19

Day 6: KINGSTON TO OTTAWA (196 KM)

The road turns north into the hinterlands of Ontario. The lush landscapes of the river basin give way to the rugged rock outcroppings of the Canadian Shield, surrounded by ancient forests transitioning to their autumn plumage. Arrive at the nation’s capital of Ottawa – the Neo-Gothic Parliament buildings surrounded by wide open parklands and bisected by the mighty Rideau Canal. Overnight in Ottawa

Day 7: OTTAWA TO TREMBLANT (154 KM)

Take some time to further explore the public buildings and museums of Ottawa before departing, crossing the provincial border into Quebec. Ascend the Laurentian Mountains into the resort village of Tremblant, known as one of the best activity-oriented areas in country.

Overnight in Tremblant.

Day 8: TREMBLANT

Enjoy a full day in Tremblant, perhaps with a hike on any of the local trails throughout the area. You may wish to take a side trip to the village of St. Jovite for a taste of the colonial history of Quebec that still resonates to this day. Within Tremblant village, local shops and restaurant provide everything from local wines and beers to unique artwork and boutique products.

Overnight in Tremblant.

Day 9: TREMBLANT TO QUEBEC CITY (368 KM)

Returning to the shores of the St. Lawrence, follow the river’s path on a scenic drive on the "King's Highway", passing numerous historical French-Canadian villages. Arriving at the walls that circle Quebec City, you will enter a magnificent UNESCO Heritage Site dominated by cobblestone streets, historic buildings and a lively Quebecois community.

Overnight in Quebec City.

Day 10: QUEBEC CITY

A full day to discover why this historic city was one of the earliest and most influential seats of power in the early days of North America. The site of pivotal battles and home of great barons of colonial industry, buildings, museums and monuments invite all visitors take a journey back to a fascinating past.

Overnight in Quebec City..

Day 11: QUEBEC CITY TO ORFORD / BROMONT (250 KM)

The road leads to the south shore of the St. Lawrence River and into the heartland of Quebec. Small villages and communities showcase the pastoral beauty of the province. This region itself is an outdoor enthusiast and artist’s dream, thriving on its closeness to nature and picture-perfect landscapes.

Overnight in Orford / Bromont.

Day 12: ORFORD / BROMONT TO MONTREAL ( 90 / 126 KM)

A short drive through the outlying communities and suburbs of Montreal provides ample time to check in and discover the many delights of the city. Widely known for its love of fine dining, inspired by cultures and cuisines from around the world, today is the perfect opportunity to embark on leisure a culinary exploration throughout Old and ‘modern’ Montreal. Overnight in Montreal.

Day 13: MONTREAL

A free day to explore all that Montreal has to offer. Be sure to see the Notre Dame Basilica, the French Quarter, and Mont Royale for a spectacular view over the city.

Days 14 & 15: MONTREAL - UK

Today your holiday comes to an end as you make your way to the airport and drop your car before taking your overnight flight home.

Hand Picked By

Maria Millard

With options of escorted touring, self-drive or even a mixture of both, 1st Class Holidays can tailor-make your perfect holiday experience.

Maria Millard

Additional Information

  • Date: Various departures for 2024
  • Board Basis: Self catering
  • Duration: 14 nights
  • Departure Airport: London
  • Guide Price: From £2,379pp
 Enquire Now

Latest from our Travel Experts

Fiona's First Impression of Riverside Luxury Cruises

fionaintro

I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to go to CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) a River...

Read More
Nicole's AMAzing experience on board AmaSerena

Nicole group

I had an amazing opportunity to stay on board AmaWaterways AmaSerena for one night during the CLIA...

Read More
Margaret's Extraordinary Expedition Cruise to Antarctica

Mags intro

“Where? Antarctica … Really? Yes! Wow” …was all I could say to a fact finding...

Read More