The vast Canadian province of Québec stretches from the valley of the St. Lawrence River in the south (where Québec borders Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire) up to the arctic tundra between Hudson Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. French is still the official language here, and while English is commonly spoken, most signage is in French. Montréal is a major metropolis that blends neo-Gothic cathedrals with contemporary museums. Québec City, the capital, has a slightly more provincial feel; its ramparts give way to spectacular natural parks. Other highlights include the Gaspésie peninsula, with its rugged maritime splendor; Montmorency Falls, a majestic waterfall taller than Niagara Falls; and Cantons de l’Est (Eastern Townships), a lush patchwork of vineyards, apple orchards and maple groves.

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