Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec), Quebec City

Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec), Quebec City (must see)

The Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec) is a cable railway that links the Upper and Lower Towns (Haute-Ville and Basse-Ville) of Old Quebec between Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) and Petit-Champlain Street (Rue du Petit-Champlain).

Apart from being quick and convenient, let alone scenic, this form of transportation is also a valuable piece of heritage. The funicular first opened in 1879. Before its conversion to electricity, in 1907, it operated a hydraulic system whereby water had to be transferred from one reservoir to another to make it function.

On July 2, 1945, a major fire damaged the structure, necessitating its rebuild, which was completed a year later. Another two renovations, in 1978 and 1998, resulted in two cabins being made fully autonomous, operating automatically as an elevator. Technically speaking, this is now more of an inclined lift than a funicular.

Small as it may seem, the funicular offers an amazing way to "see things". When traveling uphill, you get in through the Louis Jolliet House and then, after getting your ticket (which takes roughly 10 minutes on a summer afternoon), click-clack 64 meters (210 feet) up at a 45-degree angle whilst enjoying a beautiful view of the Lower Town, the St Lawrence River, and the iconic Frontenac Castle (Château Frontenac).

Indeed, being here makes it one of a kind experience that you won't get in many other places worldwide. The ride itself may be short, but the fun of it is long-lasting!

For extra pleasure, there is an on-site gift shop and café.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.

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Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec) on Map

Sight Name: Old Quebec Funicular (Funiculaire du Vieux-Quebec)
Sight Location: Quebec City, Canada (See walking tours in Quebec City)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Quebec City, Quebec

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