Holiday season is approaching, and in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places to be during this time of year is in Québec! The landscape turns into a winter wonderland, with snow packed trees, hockey on a frozen pond, skiing down double black diamonds, and traditional French architecture lit up by festive lights. If you are not afraid of shoveling a bit of snow, I suggest you keep reading…
Just 30 minutes outside of Québec City is the village of St-Ferroel. This town of about 3000 citizens was settled in 1728. During the winter months, many locals enjoy alpine and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog-sledding. St-Ferroel is conveniently located at the base of Mont St. Anne Ski Resort, as shown above. So, why not spend the holiday season in St-Ferroel at your very own slope-side chalet?
Shown above, the Ricard House was build in 1835 by Pierre Ricard. Pierre was a big fan of traditional architecture, as seen by this Norman style chalet that is adapted for the Canadian climate. The Norman style originates from Normandy France, and is characterized by its rectangular shape, stone walls, and steep pitching roof with gables. The steepness of the roof is designed to prevent the accumulation of snow during the winter months. Many older Norman style homes in Québec were made primarily out of wood.
The Ricard House allows you to step into a more simpler time with a large stone fireplace, cozy furniture and rustic charm.
This four bedroom, two bathroom chalet is ready for you to rent!
The ground floor includes:
• 1 bathroom
• 1 washroom with washer and dryer
• 1 full kitchen with dishwasher, micro-waves, etc
• 1 big stone fireplace in the living room
The first floor includes:
• 1 bathroom with a double Jacuzzi and washer/dryer on first floor
• 1 full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, etc
• 1 stone fireplace
The property includes:
• Parking for 8 cars at the door of the house
• Largest yard of the village, with stone terrace and great views
• Maple and cedar trees all around the property
If winter isn’t for you, when you get back from Florida in the spring, the Ricard house is still ready for you to move in.
And, if you love traditional French architecture as much as I do, and already have your bags packed for St-Ferroel QC this holiday season, I suggest you check out the Chalets-village website.
Photos Courtesy of Chalets-Village
Researched and Written by Brennan Guse, Environment and Sustainability Undergraduate, University of British Columbia
