I think most people can agree that Canada is a country known for its vast and beautiful wild spaces Early Winter in Quebec – HER//Excursions early winter trip Quebec (herexcursions.com). And despite it being a large city, I did find useable green spaces for nature lovers. And that was at Parc du Mont-Royal.
Parc Du Mont-Royal
While I silently lamented my inability to fully explore the space, I was nevertheless excited to visit the park Parc du Mont-Royal | Ville de Montréal (montreal.ca) . The park is hard to miss. It perches/is part of a small rocky mountain just west of, and within easy reach of downtown. I walked part of the way but eventually took a taxi te reast of the way.
The taxi ride turned out to be a smart move. The mountain is very steep. I could imagine the cyclists I passed alternately cursing and revling at the RPMs and tempo they had to churn out to even stay upright. Because there was a horrid wind to contend with as well. Walkers can also access the peak via a series of stairs. I understand it is a 35 to 45-minute walk to the peak. I know I would have enjoyed it had I not been bone tired already. Plan to walk or ride up the mountain only if you’re in good shape or have all the time in the world to make frequent stops.
A park visit need not to be tortuous though. Some parking is available for those who drive. I suspect finding a spot is more challenging in the busy seasons. For those who don’t drive, don’t want to spend a premium on a taxi or uber and certainly don’t want to walk up the mountain, fear not! The wonderful city of Montreal provides a bus service with stops up and down the mountain. I find this amazing because it allows access of the greenspace to everyone.
The park boasts running and hiking trails. You have an option to pay your respects to the WWI and WII soldiers buried at the park cemetery. Winter activities include a skating rink, cross country skiing, snow tubing as well as snowshoeing. Regardless of when you visit though, leave time to visit the Chalet. It houses cafes that will offer much needed beverages, hot or cold. It is also fronted by a low stone wall that offers some of the best views of the city.
