Quebec City: Sunset Ice Canoe Experience with Sauna

Discover the Quebec City: Sunset Ice Canoe Experience with Sauna, an engaging 2-hour activity located near Anse-au-Foulon, Quebec. Priced at $155 per person, this tour offers a rare chance to paddle across the frozen waters of the St. Lawrence River at sunset, followed by relaxing in a luxury Nordic sauna with panoramic river views. Known for its small group size—limited to 9 participants—and guided by passionate professionals, this experience balances adventure with comfort, making it ideal for those new to ice canoeing or anyone interested in a uniquely Canadian winter activity.

The tour starts with a warm welcome from guides who share insights into the historical role of ice canoeing in Quebec’s maritime history. With all necessary gear provided—including neoprene socks, crampons, life jackets, and fitted mittens—participants are prepared to try both paddling with oars and scuba scooter-like crampons. The activity is adaptable to weather and tide conditions, ensuring safety and enjoyment at every turn. After the canoeing, there’s time to walk on the ice, sip hot chocolate, and take selfies amid stunning Arctic scenery before warming up in the Nordic sauna.

This tour is especially well-suited for first-timers and those eager to explore a unique activity in Quebec. The inclusion of digital photos and videos captures the moments, allowing participants to relive their adventure later. The hot chocolate and pastries add a cozy touch, rounding out a memorable experience that combines outdoor thrill with indoor relaxation.

Key Points

• Price & Duration: At $155 for 2 hours, this is an accessible and well-rounded experience.
• Location & Meeting Point: Starts at Anse-au-Foulon, behind Tennis Montcalm, with clear signage.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Includes neoprene socks, boots, crampons, and safety gear.
• Guided Activity: Led by passionate guides who explain the history and techniques.
• Adventure & Comfort: Combines ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River with relaxation in a Nordic sauna.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for adults and teens over 12, but not accessible for those with mobility or heart issues.

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Starting the Adventure at Anse-au-Foulon

The tour kicks off at the Anse-au-Foulon boat ramp, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Quebec City. The signage “Canot à glace expérience” makes it easy to find the meeting point. Upon arrival, the team offers a warm welcome, and guides provide a briefing on safety and technique, ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading onto the ice.

The location offers striking views of the St. Lawrence River, making it an ideal spot for photos and appreciating Quebec’s winter landscape. The proximity to the city means easy access while still feeling remote enough to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the frozen river.

Learning About the Ice Canoe’s History

Guides share engaging stories about the historical importance of ice canoeing in Quebec. Participants learn how this activity played a crucial role in maritime connections and transportation during winter months. Their insights add depth to the experience, turning a fun activity into a window on the region’s past.

This context enriches the activity, making the paddling more meaningful. The guides’ expertise helps first-timers feel confident, and their explanations make the experience accessible regardless of previous experience with canoeing or winter sports.

Trying Out Canoeing and Crampons

After gear fitting, participants are introduced to the basic techniques and safety instructions. The specialized equipment includes neoprene socks, boots, leg protectors, and life jackets. The guides demonstrate how to use oars and crampons, making it clear how each tool aids the journey.

Each route is adapted to weather and tide conditions, keeping safety paramount. Travellers get a chance to try both paddling and scootering with the crampons, adding an element of fun and skill development. The activity keeps a good pace, balancing effort with moments to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Midway Break with Hot Chocolate and Ice Walks

Around the halfway point, the group stops to walk on the ice sheet, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy snacks and selfies. This pause offers breathtaking views of the icy landscape and a chance to recharge before returning to the canoe.

This break also emphasizes the peaceful solitude of being alone on the river, with striking vistas that leave a lasting impression. The guides often take photos, ensuring this once-in-a-lifetime moment is captured professionally to share later.

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Returning to Land and Post-Activity Relaxation

Back on dry land, you can warm up and debrief with your guide, who shares additional stories or answers questions. The photos and videos taken during the adventure are emailed afterward, so you can relive the experience.

The Nordic sauna awaits on the riverbank, offering a luxurious and panoramic view of the river. The sauna’s warmth provides a perfect contrast to the icy activity, and the view of the river makes for a peaceful, scenic relaxation.

The Nordic Sauna Experience

The sauna is a major highlight after the outdoor activity. It combines warmth and comfort with stunning river vistas, giving a sense of ultimate relaxation. The luxury setting makes it a special way to wind down, especially after the physical effort of paddling on ice.

Participants often enjoy hot drinks, pastries, and the calm ambiance in the lounge area. This step completes the experience, offering both adventure and wellness in one package.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour operates in the afternoon or evening, providing flexibility for scheduling. It requires a minimum of 2 participants to run, and the small group size of 9 ensures personalized attention. Weather conditions can affect the schedule; poor weather may lead to an alternative date or full refund.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so participants should plan transportation to the meeting point. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is essential, and travelers are advised to bring extras for warmth and post-activity changes.

What to Bring and Wear

Participants need to arrive with comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including two pairs of warm socks, technical long-sleeve garments, and a light winter jacket. A sports beanie or buff is recommended, along with extra clothes and a ziplock bag if carrying a phone or camera.

For the sauna, bringing a bathing suit, towel, and sandals is suggested. Sunglasses are optional but can be helpful for glare on the ice.

Suitability and Accessibility

This activity is best for adults and teens over 12 years old. It is not suitable for visitors with mobility impairments or heart conditions, and wheelchair users cannot participate. The tour’s physical nature requires at least a moderate level of fitness.

Travelers should be prepared for favorable weather conditions; the activity may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe. Jeans, alcohol, and drugs are officially not allowed for safety reasons.

Final Thoughts: A Unique Winter Adventure in Quebec

The Sunset Ice Canoe Experience offers a rare glimpse into Quebec’s winter traditions, combining adventure, history, and relaxation in a single outing. The expert guides ensure safety while enriching the journey with stories and technical support. The all-inclusive package—including equipment, photos, hot chocolate, and access to the sauna—delivers good value for the price.

While the activity requires some physical effort, the stunning views and luxurious sauna make it well worth it. It’s a perfect choice for adventurous travelers eager to try a distinctive Canadian winter activity in a safe, friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the activity suitable for children?
This tour is designed for participants over 12 years old and is not suitable for children younger than that.

What should I wear for the activity?
Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including multiple layers, warm socks, and a warm jacket. Extra clothes are recommended for after the activity.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If weather conditions are poor or minimum participants aren’t met, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Will I receive photos of my experience?
Absolutely. The guides capture photos and videos during the activity, which are shared via email in the days following your outing.

Is the sauna included in the price?
Yes, the luxury Nordic sauna is part of the package, offering a relaxing way to finish your adventure with panoramic river views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby