Mount Royal in Montreal, Canada

Mount Royal is the mountain located directly north of the city from which Montreal takes its name. Mount Royal is only one part of the Monteregian Hills, which are situated between the Appalachian and Laurentian Mountains. There are three main peaks in the Monteregian Hills: Westmount, Mount Murray, and Mount Royal proper. Jacques Cartier (a name that you will see all over the city, most notably the Place Jacques Cartier) was the first European to explore and climb Mount Royal. The area upon which he landed became the spot of the first settlement in the city. Mount Royal Park in Montreal now dominates the land where Jacques Cartier once came in the early to middle part of the sixteenth century. Parc du Mont Royal is a popular tourist attraction and a place where both visitors and residents of the city alike can enjoy a respite from the fast pace of city life.

There are a variety of things to do in Mount Royal Montreal, most of which revolve around the opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and more. Climbing to the summit of Mount Royal only takes around 45 minutes and is accessible for people of most all ages and abilities. It is a rather gentle grade as you walk up the hills at the Mount Royal Park in Montreal. The tallest peak in the Monteregian Hills does not even reach 800 feet. You also have the option of driving or biking to the summit of the Parc du Mont Royal. In any event, you will be rewarded for your efforts with some of the most stunning panoramic views of Montreal, including the confluence of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. Of course, you may have a more far-reaching view at the penthouse level of one of the luxury hotels in the city, but witnessing Montreal from the serene and naturally beautiful surrounding of historic Mount Royal provides an unparalleled experience.

Another thing you can do when visiting Mount Royal (especially if you want to learn about the history of the city and the role the hills played in it) is to visit the Smith Heritage House. Beaver Lake features a host of activities for both adults and children, including ice skating in the winter. For a bit more unique experience, consider the Sunday morning outdoor drum jam, held every week in the Parc du Mont Royal when the weather permits.

The Mount Royal Park in Montreal is one of the top attractions in the city, along with places like the Montreal Biodome and Montreal Museum of Fine Arts for good reason. You will be able to enjoy nearly 500 acres of green spaces. Relax in the gentle atmosphere of the lush flora and fauna that permeates every corner of the park. Not only are there plenty of leisure activities to enjoy at the park, but there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes should you want to venture outside the park and get a bit to eat or something to drink. There are also a range of accommodations near Mount Royal, including designer, boutique hotels and luxury hotels.