By Merrie L. Murray

Québec City, or "New France" as it was once called, today boasts 400 years of history written by the French and the English who followed. Set on a cliff called Cape Diamond, and surrounded by an authentic fortification wall with arched gates and a star-shaped Citadel, Québec City clearly is not a typical North American City.

City Skyline
From the 21st floor of the Québec Hilton, my first glimpse of the city showed a medley of copper roofs, chimneys, gables and spires reflecting the afternoon sun, rows of 18th- and 19th-century houses squeezed together inside the wall, and Le Château Frontenac, Québec City's famed landmark.

The St. Lawrence River beyond narrows at Québec City and circles the Île d'Orléans en route to the Atlantic.

Things to do
Pleasures of this capital city include cobbled streets, antique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes. Museums abound and visitors can easily walk to the major sites.

On the Dufferin Terrace high above the river at the dividing point between Upper Town and Lower Town, children pay one Canadian dollar, grab a toboggan, and slide down a run past green gazebos and lamplights. Access to Lower Town is via funicular or the "Breakneck Stairs."

Where to Stay
Quebec City's array of accommodations include bed and breakfasts, small boutique hotels and larger properties with hundreds of rooms close to the city center.

The 565-room Hilton International Quebec, located on Parliament Hill just outside the walls of the old city, is completing a major renovation including a new computerized safety system and restaurant.

There is no mistaking Le Château Frontenac, part of the Quebec City skyline for more than 100 years. Located on the Dufferin Terrace, this 613-room "castle" hotel has long been a favorite of royalty and movie stars.

Other choices include Dominion 1912, a boutique hotel with 40 rooms set within a 1912 facade, and Saint Antoine with 22 rooms close to the river.

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