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As same-sex marriage gains a legal foothold, more gay families are looking for the perfect honeymoon combining romance and family-friendly fun.

With the recent expansion of same-sex marriage laws and policies in the United States, the gay community is celebrating their newfound rights to become legal partners. The new push for marriage equality will open the doors to equal health coverage, disability insurance, pension rights, and the legal rights enjoyed by all "married" couples.

To take advantage of this landmark legal victory, gay couples are flocking to states including Connecticut to formally legalize their partnership. And because many gay couples were lifelong partners before same-sex marriage was ever legalized, many are already in the throes of raising children. But choosing a gay-friendly, kid-friendly, romantic destination to celebrate this family milestone can prove more difficult to plan. Parents of either sex will want a touch of culture, gourmet dining and nightlife, while providing their kids opportunities for adventure and entertainment. Canada's gay-friendly Quebec City and its scenic environs provide a variety of milestone vacation getaways that celebrate love and family in all their diverse forms.

Quebec Province Hotels Welcome Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex marriage has been legal in Quebec province since 2004, and Quebec City has a long-standing reputation for its gay friendliness. The city's diversity, fine dining, festivals, culture, skiing and outdoor recreation have enticed honeymooners and gay-parent families for years. Regardless of parents' orientation, family members of any age can appreciate the European appeal of the oldest city in North America. And now that airfare prices have skyrocketed, Quebec's French heritage and comparable dollar exchange rate make it an affordable alternative to France or the rest of Europe.

Those looking for a little romance on their trip, or traveling as honeymooners with kids, can get an overview of what Canada's only bilingual province has to offer by staying at one of 11 properties within the esteemed collection of Quebec Resorts and Country Inns (800/861-4024). Adhering to strict standards of quality, dining, and amenities, the network features 26 establishments ranging from woodland inns, charming city inns, resorts, and pastoral inns.

Although there are no formal kids clubs or overt child-friendly amenities in its roster, the collection of hotels prides itself on offering a variety of packages for families, outdoor adventurists, culture seekers, and foodies. Pave your way through Quebec at any time of year, choosing from nature settings, romantic escapes, gourmet cuisine, and urban convenience. And because Quebec is admired for its diversity, progressive attitude, and respect for the gay and lesbian lifestyle, you'll find your family welcomed with open arms.

Manoir des Erables, Montmagny

Our first stop on our Quebec excursion took us to Manoir des Erables (800/563-0200, Manoir des Erables 220, boul. Tache Est, Montmagny, Quebec, Canada G5V 1G5) in the area of Montmagny. This charming, upscale inn lies approximately 35-minutes from Quebec City and is just a short walk to the St. Lawrence River. My suite was located in the main building just off the beautifully carved mahogany staircase and fine rugs. When I opened the door, I was greeted by a scene right out of the French countryside with a large fireplace, mahogany four-poster bed, old-fashioned basin, Victorian accents, cozy layout, and views of the front lawn and looming trees.

Families looking for more space can opt for a superior room with multiple beds, or choose a regular room for added savings. Rooms run around $110 on up to $200 and generally include one five-course dinner. The concierge can assist in planning area excursions for golf, Nordic bath spas, and gourmet meals; the manoir's pool and spa were just a short walk from my room.