Park sights in Montréal
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A
Jardin Botanique
Montréal’s Jardin Botanique is the third-largest in the world, after London’s Kew Gardens and Berlin’s Botanischer Garten. Since its 1931 opening, the 75-hectare garden has grown to include tens of thousands of species in 30 thematic gardens, and its wealth of flowering plants is carefully managed to bloom in stages. The rose beds in particular are a sight in summer. Climate-controlled greenhouses house cacti, banana trees and 700 species of orchid. Bird-watchers should bring their binoculars. A popular draw is the landscaped Japanese Garden with traditional pavilions, tearoom and art gallery; the bonsai ‘forest’ is the largest outside Asia. The twinning of Montréa…
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B
Morgan Arboretum
This arboretum holds the country’s largest grouping of native trees: fragrant junipers, cedars and yews but also exotic species like ginkgo, cork and yellowwood. There’s a wonderful trail map and the area is perfect for a long hike in the woods, strolling through magnolia blossoms or having a family picnic. Spring and fall offer the best colors. The grounds of the arboretum serve as an educational facility for McGill’s MacDonald agricultural school. There are several species of wildlife and reptile, and it’s also a stop for 170 species of wintering or migratory birds, making it a thrill for bird-watchers. In winter, this is a beautiful location for cross-country skiing. L…
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C
Parc des Rapides
This space on the St Lawrence is the spot to view the Lachine Rapids (and the jet boats that ride them). The park attracts hikers, anglers and cyclists who pedal the riverside trail, and it’s a renowned bird sanctuary –located on a small peninsula, with what’s said to be Québec’s largest heron colony. The 30-hectare sanctuary is an important site for migratory birds, with some 225 species passing through each year. Some information displays relate the history of the rapids and of the old hydroelectric plant on the grounds. You can rent kayaks and sign up for classes where you’ll learn to surf or kayak the Lachine Rapids – scaredy-cats need not apply. Kayak Sa…
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D
Westmount Park & Library
The lovely Westmount Park encompasses pathways, streams and concealed nooks that recall the whimsical nature of English public gardens. At the western boundary the Westmount Public Library stands stolid, with its Romanesque brickwork, leaded glass and delightful bas-reliefs dedicated to wisdom. Two fine buildings are attached: the Westmount Conservatory (a Victorian greenhouse) and the Victoria Jubilee Hall, fronted by a beautiful floral clock. Both can be visited during business hours.
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E
Parc LaFontaine
This great verdant municipal park is the city’s third-largest, after Parc du Mont-Royal and Parc Maisonneuve. In the warmer months weary urbanites flock to leafy LaFontaine to enjoy the walking and bicycle paths, the attractive ponds and the general air of relaxation that pervades the park. The view down the steep banks from Ave du Parc LaFontaine is impressive, especially if the fountains are in play. You can rent paddleboats in the summer and go ice-skating in winter. The open-air Théâtre de Verdure draws a laid-back crowd on summer evenings.
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F
Parc du Portugal
This quaint little park dedicated to Portuguese immigrants was spruced up in 2003, the 50th anniversary of the official founding of the Portuguese community in Montréal. At the rear of the park, next to the little summer pavilion, a plaque reads in translation: ‘We arrived in this area seeking a new life and ample horizons.’ The gates and fountain are covered with colorful glazed tiles.
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G
Labyrinth
Located in an old aircraft hangar, the winding corridors, obstacles and surprises of the Labyrinth are a kid’s delight, whether English or French. Themes change regularly. It takes about one hour to get through the maze; small children may be frightened.
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