26 JUL 2019: With summer in mind – and glass in hand – we at Travel Industry Today, continue our seasonal series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues to enjoy during the (hopefully good) weather.

There are few North American cities that lend themselves to walking like Quebec City. (And, oh those stairs between the upper and lower towns!) Dieu merci then that’s there’s La Cour Arriere, a hidden patio gem simply made for those who have burned holes in the souls of their shoes wandering the cobbled lanes and alleys of the historic Old Town.

Located “behind” 84 Rue Dalhousie in the Old Port, “The Backyard,” as the name of the establishment suitably translates in English, has a waterfront setting beside the St. Lawrence River (and perhaps a cruise ship in town for the day), but better still, actual water in which to dip one’s toes in a foot-deep wading pool replete with lounge chairs and small tables on which to perch one’s beverage.

On that account, the bar, which is affiliated with the city’s Festibiere beer festival, boasts more than 40 brews on tap and in bottles, as well as wine, sangria, cocktails and – perfect for summer sipping – slushies, both alcoholic and non. Meanwhile, many patrons praise the pizza.

Open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., evenings feature live music and there’s a strong Latin and reggae vibe. Staff parler both French and English

Of course, one need not wade; but in either case, La Cour Arriere lives up to its reputation as “the most beautiful terrace in town.”