The best places to view fall foliage in Montreal
Montreal is an enchanting city all year round. However, there’s a particular “je ne sais quoi” when the autumn season arrives. I’m nostalgic for my university days. I travel to Montreal each fall to enjoy the season. I spend my days exploring the vibrant Sud-Ouest district to explore my top places. Here are my suggestions for enjoying the season, from food to autumnal foliage.
Atwater Market/Marche Atwater
If you’re enticed by the scent of freshly baked bread and cider made from apples or the sight of crates brimming with gourds and pumpkins, Atwater Market is the ideal place to enjoy a fall afternoon. My ideal plan would be to pick up a bao at The Satay Brother‘s stall, stroll onto a bench by the Lachine Canal, and take into the beautiful fall foliage against the background of the bustling markets.
Strom Spa Nordique Ile des Soeurs
There are plenty of spas to pick from in Montreal. I’m a massive lover of this serene spa that overlooks Lac des Battures and is covered in lush greenery, which changes hues. After a soothing steam in the Eucalyptus room, I enjoy relaxing in the fire pit outside. However, I suggest you park your chair near the dock and enjoy the beautiful autumnal views.
Belvedere Kondiaronk
It’s a well-known landmark because of this: This observation deck is famous for its breathtaking panoramas and stunning photo opportunities. This is a trick: skip the trek up the mountain and take bus number 11 from Mont Royal Station. This will get you there within 20 minutes. Whatever method you choose to take to arrive, you should be sure to plan your trip to ensure you’re there about 15 minutes before sunset to enjoy the city’s skyline in the evening.
Belvedere Outremont
If you’d prefer a view with a lot of locals and visitors (and no crowds also), visit Belvedere Outremont, only a minute’s drive from Kondiaronk (or the 40-minute hike along a well-paved, steep trail that runs in the Mount Royal Cemetery). With more giant trees than Kondiaronk, the location offers the most natural perspective of the city, especially during the fall. It’s also a wonderful place to meet friends; grab bagels from the St.Viateur in the adjacent area, Mile End (open ’til midnight), before heading up to the beautiful spot around sunset.
Noble Cafe
Just outside the gates of Laurier station, the cozy coffee location offers perfectly crafted cappuccinos and delicious almond croissants. No seating options make it the perfect place to enjoy the autumnal mood. Although it’s difficult to hide from nature, the chic residents of the Mile-Ex neighborhood can also make it the ideal spot for people-watching.
Place des Arts
Hidden within the Musee of Contemporary Art De Montreal and Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, The esplanade’s outdoor area is a highlight in the fall. The steps that lead to Saint Catherine lead to an elevated area where trees are scattered throughout and are punctuated by contemporary mirror sculptures. The perfect mix of urban and natural.