Strolling the Historic Dufferin Terrace

The Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) is one of the landmarks of Quebec City. In a city which has buildings that are almost 400 years old, this is a relatively new addition. The first cornerstone was laid by Lord Dufferin who was the third Governor General of Canada in 1878. It was one of the last things he did before returning to Britain to become Ambassador to Russia. 

#dufferinterrace

We have more than just this to thank him for, he protected the walls of the old city from being torn down for development and for that we must all be grateful. 

A relatively new addition to the Terrace is the archeological dig beneath it. You buy your tickets in the same place as the tickets to the funicular. I recommend that you visit, it is amazing and gives a good idea of what life in the area has been like for 400 years. 

Dufferin Terrace runs for about half a mile right on the edge of the escarpment. The Chateau Frontenac towers above the boardwalk that is anchored by the statue of the founder of Quebec City, Samuel de Champlain.

View of the Chateau Frontenac from the Dufferin Terrace

In the summer this is a great place to enjoy the views of the St. Lawrence River and the entertainment that is bound to pop up at any moment. In the winter, this is the location of a bobsled run.  At the eastern corner is the entrance to the funicular and at the western end are the stairs that lead to the Governors Promenade and the Plains of Abraham.    

Walking on the Dufferin Terrace has been a favorite pastime since the 1800s and it is just as entertaining today. It is one of the first places we head for on every visit to the city because of the gorgeous panorama before your eyes, never gets old.