Depart Montreal this morning for Quebec City. Journey along the St. Lawrence River to Trois-Rivieres (three rivers) and the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap (Our Lady of the Cape). This shrine is the third-most frequented pilgrimage site in Quebec and is dedicated to Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire (Our Lady of the Rosary). The first official pilgrimage took place here in 1883 and the modern-style basilica is renowned for its stained-glass windows. We will also visit the Small Shrine (built in 1714) and the Musée des Ursulines. In 1697, the Ursuline Order of nuns became the first female religious congregation to establish in Trois-Rivières and its presence has greatly influenced the city’s history. Continue to Quebec City, which has delighted visitors for centuries. Throughout the years, the city has retained its Old-World charm, evident in the multitude of historical and religious monuments, fortifications, and narrow cobblestone alleys. The distinctive French flavor is enhanced by fine restaurants, outdoor cafes, and a lively nightlife. In 1985 the city became the first urban center in North America to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. After the city sightseeing, transfer to our hotel, our home base for the second half of our pilgrimage for dinner and overnight. (B, D, Mass)

Journey to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, dedicated to the grandmother of Jesus, and the oldest pilgrimage site in Canada. Miraculous cures have been reported at the basilica since the late 1600’s when a group of sailors, after surviving a shipwreck, built a small chapel in honor of their patron saint. Founded in 1658, the impressive grounds include not only the basilica, built in the Romanesque Revival style, but also a replica of the Scala Santa (holy stairs), the 17th-century Memorial Chapel, an outdoor Way of the Cross, and a museum. Continue our exploration of the Cote de Beaupre this afternoon with a visit to the Albert Giles Copper Art and Museum. Giles crafted the beautiful copper doors that adorn the entrance of the Basilica of St. Anne. Journey to nearby Montmorency Falls, which stand 100 feet higher than Niagara, then cross the St. Lawrence River to the charming Ile d’Orleans. Dinner tonight will be an entertaining and educational experience at a nearby traditional “sugar shack,” busiest during the early spring when the sap starts running in the maple trees. Afterwards, return to our hotel in Quebec City. (B, D, Mass)

Embark on an exploration of Catholic history in Quebec. Learn about numerous founders and teachers of the faith in this region. Visit the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica-Cathedral, situated in the heart of Old Quebec. Housing the tomb of one of the earliest Canadian saints, St. Francois de Laval, first bishop of Quebec, it also boasts of a large reliquary holding many of Canada’s Saints and Blesseds. Proceed to the Ursuline Monastery and Chapel (home of the oldest institution of learning for women in North America) to venerate another early Canadian saint, Sr. Marie de l’Incarnation, followed by the Centre Catherine-de-Saint-Augustin, where the Blessed Mother Catherine de Simon de Longpre (the co-founder of the Canadian church) is buried. This afternoon, we enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the St. Lawrence River. View the Montmorency Falls from a different perspective and marvel at the city skyline as you cruise beneath the famous Fairmont le Chateau Frontenac hotel. Enjoy a farewell dinner together this evening in Old Quebec City. (B, D, Mass)

Transfer to the airport in Quebec City today for our return flights home, taking with us all the blessings and graces of this pilgrimage. (B)