My Montreal Bucket List: Cycling Along the Lachine Canal

Riding along the Lachline Canal. Photo by Annie Shreeve Riding along the Lachline Canal. Photo by Annie Shreeve

There is nothing better on a Sunday summertime afternoon than a glorious ride along the Lachine Canal. One of Montreal’s must-do attractions, this weekend I realised why. It was simply gorgeous. A cycle path runs right beside the waters edge from the Old Port all the way to the water front at Parc Rene-Levesque (a perfect spot for a picnic also!). It is a simple and rewarding ride.

The Lachine Canal. Photo by Annie Shreeve

The Lachine Canal. Photo by Annie Shreeve

So mid-afternoon I met my friend in the Old Port on our bikes and we were ready to roll. There were so many people out and about enjoying the sunshine that it made it quite the exciting adventure. As we began to ride, we left the old port to reach the cycle path where we, and plenty more cyclists, runners, Sunday afternoon leisurely riders (that was us) and families were also enjoying this space. It was refreshing to see.

Cycling along the waterfront. Photo by Annie Shreeve

Cycling along the waterfront. Photo by Annie Shreeve

Farine Five Roses sign. Photo by Annie Shreeve

Farine Five Roses sign. Photo by Annie Shreeve

So on our way I discovered so many little things that I did not even know were there. I found the best place to see the “Farine Five Roses” sign. Sounds silly, but it really has become a beautiful piece of industrial ‘art’ here in Montreal. I realised you can hire kayaks and paddle down the Lachine Canal! Atwater Market is so close that it is the perfect spot to grab a snack and stop for a picnic. And on route, there is a St Ambroise Brasserie which is the perfect midway stop for an afternoon cider if you are feeling so inclined.

St Ambroise Brasserie. Photo by Annie Shreeve

St Ambroise Brasserie. Photo by Annie Shreeve

So in the end, my leisurely Sunday afternoon ride ended up being quite the adventure and journey of new discoveries. It was most enjoyable and I would highly recommend the trip.

The Lachine Canal cycle path is located along the waters edge south of the downtown area. It is accessible at any point along the path.