Martello Tower 1

Lonely Planet review

For some reason, many visitors balk at having to pay admission here perhaps put off by its small size. It's too bad because there's heaps of fascinating information packed into the tower's tiny package and it's well worth the money. The interactive exhibitions explore the engineering history of the structures and soldiers living conditions in them and children in particular seem to get a real kick out of them.

Like the Citadelle, the British threw up these towers between 1808-1812 fearing an invasion by the Americans was in the works. Again, like the Citadelle, the British never got to try the towers out, as the American army was defeated in 1812.

Martello Tower 2 is nearby but is only open to the public during the two-dozen or so '1814, council-of-war-style' dinners held each year, in which diners must discover who the 'traitor' among them is. It's in French only, but there are translated scripts for English speakers who attend to follow along. Call for a schedule. Reservations essential by phone (418-649-6157) or at Discovery Pavilion.