Promenade Samuel- De Champlain
As you approach Quebec City from the west you might find yourself driving parallel to the linear park along the St. Lawrence River that is natural, active with walkers and bicyclists, and dotted with well-placed plant life, small sculptural walkways and public furniture.
It is known as Promenade Samuel-De Champlain. It was commissioned by the government of Quebec City to celebrate its 400th year. The park opened in 2008 and has won several Canadian architectural awards.
The park was designed by the firm of Daoust Lestage Lizotte + Stecker of Montreal.
It was constructed in phases and the latest section of the park is in the last stage of completion.
The park currently covers about two and a half miles along the river. Among its features are; reclaimed wood walking paths, a natural wetland, well-marked walking and bike paths, an observation tower, a community center, manicured lawns, views of the river and the Quebec Bridge.
The park is a beautiful and modern edition to an old city.
The aesthetic is inviting. It is hard to imagine driving by without stopping to take a walk to enjoy both the natural and man-made scenery.