Yes, Montreal is far away from pristine beaches and fresh coconut water, but what if I told you that you can surf in Montreal? Well it's not the ocean of course but we have a great spot for river surfing. Actually, there are a couple of waves around the island but the big one is behind Habitat 67. River surfing is a great way to initiate yourself to surfing or even to improve your technique for the ocean. My goal is to finally try it this summer, and I will probably use the services of KSF, a group that can teach you the history, the techniques, the quality of the water and more.
There is parking right behind the buildings and usually a couple of surfers going at it. It's also just fun to walk around that area and gaze at monumental architecture like the Habitat 67 complex. There is a hidden park surrounded by water a bit further, called Cité des Havres, with a great view of the Old port of Montreal.
2600 avenue Pierre-Dupuy
C$
free
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"Léché Desserts" in Montreal hides many promises behind its pink benches and brick building! I recommend getting donuts here and going to watch the trains.
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Zab Café is a coffee roaster from Montreal that has an interesting story, four locations, and good coffee. It's small and smells of good coffee.
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Housed in an art deco building in Old Montreal, the PHI Foundation is focused on making contemporary art accessible to the largest number of people.
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I really recommend their cortado, where the rich, chocolatey espresso meets a dose of milk in a really satisfying combination.
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Sit on the sidewalk and eat the most delicious gnocchi for only $5, with a rich tomato sauce and imagine whatever you want in your own alternate reality.
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I was struck by the enthusiastic staff and the very tender exhibit about window coverings that invited us to consider what is shown and what is hidden.
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Here you will find a strange pyramid of benches that doubles as an art gallery, small fields & greenhouses tended by students from the nearby university.
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Olimpico attracts the young and beautiful. And Club Social feels like it's been there longer, and remains true to its roots. Both have terrific bombolini!
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The cannoli! A crisp shell that shatters a bit as you bite into it, first-class ricotta cheese. Not too sweet. Somehow light and filling at the same time.
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Caffe Italia has been popular with Italian families for decades & it never lost the homey feeling. The coffee is delicious. The vibe is welcoming and loud.
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Jean Talon market is the kind of place where there is a vast choice, but I'd bet that most regulars end up with their favorite sellers.
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The exhibits are free to the public, and very well curated by Isabelle de Mévieus and her team. The converted post office is worth a visit on its own.
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134 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 134 Insider Tips from our local Spotters