city after Paris in terms of population. This major centre of 4.1 million inhabitants is a tapestry of cultures from the world over with its many neighbourhoods, including Chinatown, the Latin Quarter, the Gay Village, Little Italy, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, the Quartier International and Old Montreal. Montreal has a rich architectural heritage, along with cultural activities, sports events and festivals. The city is celebrating its 375th anniversary in 2017. Quebec City The capital, Quebec City, is the only fortified city in North America. The oldest Francophone city in North America, Quebec City was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985 and celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2008. Resorts Château Frontenac Clarendon Hotel Ice Hotel Mont Tremblant Resort: Located in the Laurentides region, Mont-Tremblant Resort is a four-season resort offering activities for the whole family. The St. Lawrence River The St. Lawrence River is one of the largest rivers in the world and historically was the means of access to the centre of North America. Its 1,800 kilometres (1,120 mi.) are lined with coastal villages, bird and marine mammal sanctuaries, lighthouses and verdant and rocky shores. The river is one of the largest navigable waterways in the world, and its estuary is known for its marine mammals, birds and fish. Upstream from Montreal to the tip of Gaspésie, a road borders the shores of the St. Lawrence River, allowing drivers to explore a coastline that changes from mountainous to rural to wilderness. Visitors can explore the rich Saguenay Fjord. The 1,600-kilometre (994-mi.) St. Lawrence River transforms into a gulf that is more like an inland sea. The Gulf of St. Lawrence can be travelled by ferry, sailboat, kayak or cruise ship. Whale watching is popular in Quebec, particularly in Tadoussac. There are also islands and archipelagos scattered along the river. The Île d'Anticosti and the Îles-de-la-Madeleine have legends from sailors and fishermen who continue to live there. Adventures For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure, Quebec's wide open spaces allow outdoor sports, hunting and fishing: Aboriginal peoples: Visitors can discover the traditional way of life of the first inhabitants of the territory, the Aboriginals. Protected areas: Quebec has 27 protected national parks, Rail trails Ski areas and resorts What to do Sports and outdoors Sports and outdoor activities in Quebec can be enjoyed summer and winter: Hunting and fishing Golf Snowmobiling Wildlife observation National parks Water sports ATV riding