7 Things To Discover On Montreal’s South Shore
What to do in Montreal’s Southshore
| Opinion
A world beyond the metro map!
For many Montrealers, the south shore makes us think of Longueuil, the terminal of our shortest metro line. But believe it or not, there is a whole world beyond the metro map!
A vibrant suburban area
The south shore doesn’t have exact boundaries, but it roughly comprises the suburban area along the shore of the Saint Lawrence across from the island of Montreal. It includes the towns of Boucherville, St-Lambert, Brossard, La Prairie, Candiac, McMasterville and more.
Yes, it’s pretty suburban, but it’s also pretty amazing.
Here are our top 7 things to discover on the south shore:
1. Quartier Dix30
You mean that big shopping mall? Yes! But also no. This place goes way beyond shopping. It’s practically a resort!
In addition to the amazing shopping, Quartier Dix30 is home to an indoor skatepark, two concert halls, Oasis Surf, laser tag, a full service spa, an escape room, a huge selection of restaurants and cafes and much more.
Read more about the Dix30 experience here.
2. Gault Nature Reserve
The Gault Nature Reserve spans over 1,000 hectares of natural forest with stunning hiking, skiing and snowshoeing trails that truly you connect you with nature.
As the last remaining area of old forest in the region, the park gives a glimpse into what much of the Saint Lawrence Valley looked like at the time of European exploration.
The land is now owned by McGill University where it stands as a living laboratory committed to preserving the natural environment and ecosystems, while staying open for the public to experience the wildlife and stunning forests year round.
Overnight accommodations include the historic Gault house, 2 chalets and a cottage.
3. Country Club of Montreal
Hit 18 holes on a piece of history! Located in St-Lambert, The Country Club of Montreal was established in 1910 and today stands as a prestigious private club open to visitors for a round of golf.
Now get ready for a really obscure fun fact for your next trivia night. The Country Club of Montreal is where the term “mulligan” was coined! The story goes that in the 1920’s a golfer named David Mulligan was the only one of his four golf buddies to own a car. Thus, it was his job to drive everyone to the course.
Cars being a rarity at the time, roads were mainly travelled by horse drawn carriages and made for some harrowing driving in one of those new fangled automobiles.
Rattled by the terrifying drive, Mulligan’s first shot was always way off course. His friends, probably grateful he had gotten them there alive, would always grant him a second shot. And thus the shot was named, the Mulligan.
4. iSaute
Looking for something a little more high energy? Plan a trip to the iSaute indoor trampoline park!
Popular for parties and birthdays, iSaute is a really fun way to spend the day. The 35,000 square foot park is made up of interconnected padded and trampoline floors that include jump boxes, a dodgeball court, basketball dunk centers, foam pits and a slackline.
There’s also a space just for toddlers, so it’s perfect for the whole family.
5. Bike Trails
Montreal is known for its extensive bike paths that take you through much of the main city and surrounding island. But that path actually extends off island as well, and the south shore has some amazing routes for cyclists.
On the south shore paths, you can tour around the site of Expo ‘67, cycle along a genuine Formula One track, and along a narrow strip of land right in the middle of the Saint Lawrence.
If you really want to enjoy your ride, head to Iles de Boucherville national park, which has some of the most stunning bike trails imaginable. You can rent bikes on site, including fat-bikes for winter cycling.
6. Old La Prairie
Owing to its location at the junction of the Saint Lawrence and St-Jacques rivers, the region now known as La Prairie was historically a key transportation hub from the beginning of 17th century European colonization and into the 20th century.
Today, this small town is home to a provincial heritage site with much of the early European architecture still standing. Take a tour guided by your smartphone, visit the archeology museum or simply stroll through the quaint, historic city.
7. Fort Chambly
Built in 1665, Fort Chambly national park offers a look back at life as a French soldier in 17th century New France. It’s a fascinating look into the history of French settlement in Quebec.
The fort offers guided tours, fun and interactive activities, a museum and group tours for schools and organizations. Surrounding the fort are beautiful picnic areas, woods and walking trails along the stunning Richelieu River with its rushing rapids, as well as a 20 km biking trail nearby.
