Bonhomme enjoys some snowbathing with festival goers at the Quebec Winter Carnival. (Courtesy Quebec Winter Carnival)

Images: Visiting Quebec Carnival

Q: Have dates been announced for the Quebec Winter Carnival? Can you recommend any hotels and restaurants in Quebec City?

-- Merci. B. Pecora, Richmond Hill

A: Quebec's signature event will take place Feb. 1-17. This huge crowd-pleaser and its frosty activities get everyone outside to celebrate winter. For carnival details, see carnaval.qc.ca/en.

On the accommodation side, check out Auberge Duchesnay (1-877-511-5885) just outside the city, overlooking Lac St. Joseph. This luxe country-style lodge has everything you want in a Quebec retreat and makes a great base for ice-fishing, skating and cross-country skiing. Its restaurant menu features local products.

Looking for urban chic? In Vieux Port, the refurbished Hotel Le Germaine Dominion sizzles. Completed in 1912, the eight-storey hotel was once the city's most modern and tallest building.

For city dining, Le Parlementaire, in the sumptuous beaux-art Parliament building, is a well-kept secret. In addition, there are many funky restaurants and cafes in the Saint Roch district.

For general travel information on Quebec, see bonjourquebec.com.

Q: Do you have any information on the ski and snowshoe festival happening around Collingwood?

-- S. Kowalski, Toronto

A: Outdoor winter enthusiasts are prepping their cross-country skis and snowshoes in anticipation of the NordicFest Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Festival taking place on Feb. 2. The Scenic Caves near Blue Mountain turn into a winter wonderland backdrop as participants hit groomed trails along the escarpment. Insiders say you can even cross Ontario's longest suspension bridge. Other highlights include snowman-making contests and scavenger hunts. After the event, warm up beside a toasty firepit with some free hot chocolate or apple cider. See NordicFest.ca or sceniccaves.com/nordicfest for full details.

Send your travel questions to ilona@mycompass.ca