Ile D'Orleans - Gaspe covered Bridges

If the language and culture wasn't enough for the Quebecers to separate then the picturesque homes of Ile D'Orleans and the Gaspe covered bridges should put the doubting Thomas' to rest. Image yellow painted gabbles on a ancient stone with mauve pansies on the front veranda, each home a flurry of colors, textures and design all of its own.  Along with the Cheese Factories, wineries and ciders hosting raspberry, blueberry, gooseberry, apple and pear to tantalize the palate, no wonder they are embarrassed by the rest of Canada. Our perfectly brewed café au lait in St. Jean at Ma Petite Folie - was enjoyed in the company of a local artists who paints on conks.

We toured the Island in the mist of the morning dew scenting lavender farms, bakeries and microbreweries our noses guiding our route from village to village with beautifully painted welcome signs of pastoral and oceanic views. By noon the rain had made it's point and we ventured off one island and onto the Gaspe Peninsula in a full deluge.

Eating lunch in the car whilst gazing at a church constructed in the 19th century brought perspective to the history of this part of land the Native referred to as the end of the land. Now in a very appealing McDonald's after erecting the tent at warp speed to avoid an entire wet night. We walked around Montmagny visiting their historical sights and Catholic church.

The roof lines here are unique - an A frame slopping up just as they reach their ends, reminding me of Hansel and Gretel gingerbread house. The locals are truly generous always reaching out to assist us. Yet let it be known there is little to no English spoken outside of Quebec City. They are proud of their French heritage and yearn to expand those of us to their ways. My hope is that they don't change with modern culture.

Just as we exited the bridge our car became lost. Hal was behind the wheel and pulled over to ask someone. Within seconds their iPhone appear with fingers moving at light speed, never thinking to look at our map. No  eye contact is made, they move the phone into the car and point to the map on it, then smile, nod their heads and say, Sa va?