Whether you’re feeling the call of nature or prefer the creature comfort of interior settings, QRSTA* members are offering a wide variety of activities to delight art, culture, history and architecture lovers this winter! Here are a few ideas to inspire you!

Create a work of art out of copper

Ever heard of the “repoussé” technique? Learn all about this form of embossed copper art at Albert Gilles Copper Art. Marvel at the works created by passionate artisans using this traditional technique and create your own during an interactive workshop. After a demonstration, let your imagination run free and create your own work of art on a small piece of copper for a unique souvenir to take home! The perfect combination of learning and creativity!

Where: Albert Gilles Copper Art, Château-Richer (Québec City region)
When: The workshop is available at any time during opening hours.
Good to know: Allow approximately 30 minutes for the workshop and 30 minutes to visit both museums (access is included with the workshop). No reservations are required for individuals or families.

Enjoy a rejuvenating getaway to an Indigenous site

No matter the season, Spiritours offers stays that combine spirituality and well-being, allowing you to take time to reflect and reconnect with others. This winter, escape to the Mégantic region for a spiritual retreat with Back 2 Nature Eco-Lodging and Experiences, an eco-friendly Indigenous site dotted with unique accommodations. There, you’ll have access to picturesque trails where you can find inner peace and enjoy a variety of extraordinary experiences, including an encounter with the forest spirit that combines nature, Indigenous wisdom, and drum and flute performances. What better way to immerse yourself in nature?

Where: Back 2 Nature Eco-Lodging and Experiences, Piopolis (Eastern Townships)
When: All winter
Good to know: Already thinking about a vacation for next fall? With Spiritours, you can recharge your batteries in the heart of Quebec’s nature on a pilgrimage along the Notre-Dame de Québec trail, sometimes called the “Compostela in Canada.” Visit the website for more information.

Visit a sanctuary where history and spirituality meet

At Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour, dive into the heart of a rich heritage during a guided group or solo visit as you uncover the secrets and fascinating tales of this sanctuary, which is closely linked to Jacques Cartier’s second voyage to America. You can also embark on a pilgrimage through the neighbourhood to the Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site, where the French explorer and his companions wintered during their voyage, and where the first Jesuit mission in Québec City was established.

Where: Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour, Limoilou (Québec City)
When: To find out about opening hours and organize your visit, call 418 623-4926, extension 104.
Good to know: Stay tuned: a new immersive journey in the footsteps of Jacques Cartier, Stella Nivis, is coming to the sanctuary in April 2024!

Discover the architectural wonder gracing the Sherbrooke landscape

The Saint-Michel Cathedral Basilica towers over Sherbrooke, marking the city’s landscape with its massive, castle-like silhouette. And with its majestic arches and Gothic-inspired lancet windows, it’s a wonder for architecture enthusiasts. When visiting the city, you can plan a free self-guided tour (offered in French only) to explore this unique place of worship. You’ll have the chance to marvel at many architectural feats, including the beautiful stained-glass windows in the nave and choir.

Where: Saint-Michel Cathedral Basilica, Sherbrooke (Eastern Townships)
When: You can take a self-guided tour Monday through Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Good to know: Although guided tours are suspended until April 2024 due to painting work, you can still take the free self-guided tour (some areas may be inaccessible) or book a guided tour of the private chapel (for groups of 8 or more).

Visit an exhibition that’s sure to inspire future scientists

The Musée des Ursulines in Trois-Rivières invites you to immerse yourself in a captivating exhibition dedicated to pioneering female educators! Through texts, artifacts, images, fun games and multimedia content, the Nuns, Teachers AND… Scientists! exhibition unveils the innovative programs and avant-garde methods used by the Ursuline Sisters and the Congrégation de Notre-Dame to teach botany, chemistry, physics, mineralogy and more to their (female) students. Quite a feat at a time when science was considered a male preserve. It’s sure to be an inspiring outing for budding scientists and their families!

Where: Musée des Ursulines de Trois-Rivières (Mauricie)
When: Until April 7, 2024
Good to know: The museum also organizes family-friendly activities throughout the year! Stay tuned for upcoming activities!

*The Quebec Religious and Spiritual Tourism Association (QRSTA) is proud to contribute to the development and promotion of Quebec’s RICH and DIVERSE religious and spiritual tourism and heritage.