Quebec City: Ice Canoeing with Hot Chocolate & Sauna

If you’re after a truly different way to experience Quebec City during winter, this Ice Canoeing with Hot Chocolate & Sauna tour might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally gone on this exact adventure, from what I’ve gathered, it offers a mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and cozy comfort that’s hard to beat.

What really appeals is the combination of active fun and relaxation—you’re out on the frozen Saint-Lawrence River, trying a sport that’s as historically rooted as it is exhilarating. Plus, the chance to sip hot chocolate on floating ice sheets and unwind in a Nordic sauna with panoramic river views adds an unusual layer of comfort to the experience.

That said, it’s not for everyone. The tour requires a moderate level of physical ability and can be weather-dependent, which means if conditions aren’t just right, your plans might shift. Still, if you’re craving a hands-on, memorable winter adventure and don’t mind bundling up, this experience could be a perfect fit.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor activities, are interested in trying something culturally significant and historically interesting, or simply want a different perspective on Quebec’s winter landscape. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and who want something more engaging than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique activity: Ice canoeing on the Saint-Lawrence River is a rare, memorable activity rooted in Quebec’s history.
• All-inclusive experience: Guides provide safety training, equipment, hot chocolate, pastries, and photos.
• Stunning scenery: Expect panoramic river views and the thrill of being on ice-covered waters.
• Relaxing finish: The Nordic sauna offers warmth and comfort after your chilly adventure.
• Weather dependent: The activity is subject to favorable conditions, with alternatives offered if weather doesn’t cooperate.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 12, but perfect for adventurous adults.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Getting Started: What to Expect

The ice canoeing adventure begins about 15 minutes outside Quebec City at a designated ramp behind Tennis Montcalm. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted warmly by guides who will walk you through the safety procedures, basic techniques, and what to expect.

The activity is designed to be accessible for first-timers, but do keep in mind a moderate physical ability is needed. Once suited up in neoprene socks, boots, crampons, life jackets, and mittens, you’ll get a technical briefing. Guides are experienced and friendly, making sure everyone feels confident before venturing onto the ice.

The actual canoeing part involves both paddling and scooting with crampons—think of it as a cross between rowing and snowshoeing. The routes are tailored to the weather and tides of the day, so each trip offers a slightly different perspective. You’ll likely spend some time walking on the ice, which adds a fun variation to the activity.

The Experience on the Water

As you float on a large ice sheet on the river, expect moments of awe. The views are described as breathtaking, with expansive panoramas of the river and surrounding winter landscape. It’s a quiet, almost surreal experience, made more special by the guides’ storytelling about the historical importance of ice canoeing in Quebec.

Many reviewers comment on how safe they felt, thanks to the guides’ professionalism. One reviewer from Denmark mentioned feeling very secure thanks to the thorough instructions and support, which is a big part of why this tour is popular.

Midway Break: Hot Chocolate & Photos

Around mid-way, you’ll stop on the ice for a break. Here, you can sip steaming hot chocolate, nibble pastries, and take selfies with the stunning backdrop. This pause not only gives you a chance to warm up but also to soak in the scenery and enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the adventure.

The guides use GoPro cameras to capture this part of the trip, so you don’t need to worry about lugging your phone around on the ice. Afterward, they’ll share these photos and videos, adding a personal touch that keeps the experience alive long after the tour.

Winding Down in the Sauna

Back on land, your journey ends with a visit to the Nordic sauna. Located just on the riverbank, the sauna offers a cozy retreat with panoramic views of the Saint-Lawrence. Many reviewers find this to be the perfect way to relax after the chilly excursion, with some mentioning it as a highlight.

If you’re planning to enjoy the sauna, bring a bathing suit, towel, and sandals—most people find the warmth and the view a perfect way to conclude their day.

More Great Tours Nearby

How the Tour Is Organized

This 3-hour activity usually runs in the morning or afternoon, depending on availability. The price of $180 per person reflects a comprehensive experience: guides, equipment, safety training, hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos/videos are all included.

Transport isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point, Anse-au-Foulon, on your own. The site is easy to find with signage, and the guides are multilingual, speaking French, English, and Spanish, which is helpful if you’re not fluent in French.

What to Bring

To make the most of the trip, pack warm, weather-appropriate clothing—think base layers, a light winter jacket, hat, and extra socks. Extra clothes for after the activity are recommended, along with sunglasses if you want to shield your eyes from the glare.

It’s important to arrive on time and be prepared to sign a waiver. Note that jeans, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility or heart issues.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $180, this tour offers a lot. You’re not just paying for the activity itself but also for the safety, equipment, expert guidance, and the memorable photos. Many reviews highlight how much they valued the professional support and the opportunity to learn about Quebec’s unique ice canoeing tradition.

For those craving a hands-on, active experience that combines history, nature, and fun, the cost is reasonable. Plus, the sauna and hot chocolate add a cozy finish that many travelers appreciate after the exertion on the ice.

The Feedback from Fellow Travelers

Reviews consistently give this experience a perfect 5 out of 5. Travelers love the passionate guides and the stunning views they get to witness. Many describe it as a “once-in-a-lifetime event” and mention how safe and supported they felt throughout.

One traveler from the United States shared that their teenage boys loved the activity, especially the scooting part, and that the hot chocolate was the perfect pick-me-up. Another noted that despite the challenge of balancing on the ice, guides were patient and helpful, which made the activity accessible and fun.

Several reviewers emphasize the photo opportunities—they say the visuals of floating on ice sheets with the river stretching out are unforgettable. Many also appreciate the post-activity sauna, describing it as an essential part of the experience, offering warmth and relaxation with a view.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor adventures, are interested in trying something deeply rooted in Quebec’s winter culture, or simply want a story to tell back home, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s well-suited for adventurous adults who are okay with physical activity and cold weather.

While not designed for children under 12 or those with mobility issues, it’s a fantastic choice for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to do something memorable. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for a mix of active fun and cozy relaxation afterward.

Final Thoughts

This ice canoeing experience in Quebec City offers a rare chance to see the frozen Saint-Lawrence River from a different perspective. It combines a physically engaging activity with cultural storytelling, breathtaking scenery, and a warm, relaxing sauna. The guides’ professionalism and the safety measures make it accessible for first-timers, and the stunning views make it a top contender for your winter itinerary.

While it requires some physical effort and is weather-dependent, those who participate tend to come away with unforgettable memories and plenty of great photos. It’s a perfect adventure for those wanting to experience Quebec’s winter in an active, hands-on way that’s both educational and exhilarating.

If you’re up for trying something that’s both fun and meaningful—and don’t mind the cold—this tour could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who have never done ice canoeing before?
Absolutely. The guides provide safety training and a thorough briefing, making it accessible even for first-timers.

How physically demanding is the activity?
A moderate level of physical ability is recommended. The activity involves paddling and scooting with crampons, which can be challenging but manageable with guidance.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including base layers, a light winter jacket, extra socks, and accessories like a hat or buff. Extra clothes for after the activity are also recommended.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to get to the meeting point, Anse-au-Foulon. The site is accessible, and guides are available to assist with directions.

Can children participate?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 due to physical and safety considerations.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the ice canoeing activity, safety and technical training, equipment (neoprene socks, boots, crampons, life jackets, mittens), hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos/videos.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t favorable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours, including preparation, activity time, and the sauna.

Will I get good photos?
Yes, guides use a GoPro to capture the trip, and you’ll receive these images afterward.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Most reviews suggest yes. The combination of adventure, scenery, cultural insight, and relaxation offers excellent value for $180.

All in all, this tour is a solid choice for anyone craving a winter activity that’s fun, scenic, and culturally interesting. If you’re ready for a chilly but rewarding day, it’s bound to leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: