South West Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and everything you need to know before visiting South West Montreal.


Introduction to South West

South West is a vibrant neighborhood located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The area boasts a rich cultural history and offers a wide array of activities and attractions for tourists of all ages. From natural wonders to historical buildings, there’s something for everyone in South West.

List of Places to Visit in South West

Here are the top places to visit in South West:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Atwater Market: This vibrant market is over a century old and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It’s open year-round and is a must-visit for all visitors.

  2. Lachine Canal National Historic Site: This beautiful waterway connects the city’s port to the western towns of Montreal. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak through the canal and learn about its fascinating history.

  3. Canadian Railway Museum: Located in Delson, this museum houses over 150 years of Canadian railway history. Visitors can see an impressive collection of engines, cabooses, and coach cars.

Natural Attractions of South West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Royal Park: This park is one of the best places to visit in Montreal for its stunning views and recreational activities. Visitors can hike, bike, ice-skate, or snowshoe throughout the park’s many trails.

  2. Saint Lawrence River: The river offers breathtaking views of Montreal. Visitors can take a bike ride or a boat tour and learn about the history of the city from the water.

  3. LaSalle Park: This 35-acre park boasts walking trails, a bird sanctuary, and picnic areas. It’s a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South West

One of the best ways to explore South West is by hiking or biking. Here are some of the best routes to take:

  1. Lachine Canal Bike Path: This well-maintained path runs along the canal and is perfect for all ages and skill levels.

  2. Mount-Royal Trail: This is a moderate hike that leads to the summit of the mountain, offering breathtaking views of Montreal.

  3. The Seaway Trail: This 240km trail runs through Quebec and offers scenic views of the Saint Lawrence River.

Best Things to Do in South West: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in South West:

  1. Kayaking on the Lachine Canal: Rent a kayak and paddle through the historic canal.

  2. Food Tours: Take a food tour of the Atwater Market and try out some delicious local fare.

  3. LaSalle Cider Mill: Take a tour of the historic cider mill and sample some of the delicious apple cider.

Week-Long Itinerary for South West

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring South West:

Day 1: Visit the Atwater Market and explore the neighborhood’s restaurants.

Day 2: Take a bike ride along the Lachine Canal.

Day 3: Visit the Canadian Railway Museum in Delson.

Day 4: Hike to the top of Mount Royal.

Day 5: Explore the beautiful LaSalle Park.

Day 6: Take a food tour of the neighborhood.

Day 7: Kayak along the Lachine Canal.

Food and Drink Scene of South West

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in South West:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Steak Frites: This classic French dish can be found in many restaurants throughout the neighborhood.

  2. Smoked Meat Sandwich: This Montreal classic is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

  3. Poutine: Quebec’s most famous dish consists of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

Local Beverages

  1. Beer: Montreal is famous for its craft beer scene, and you can find many breweries in South West.

  2. Ice Cider: This sweet dessert wine is made using frozen apples and is a local specialty of Quebec.

Where to Stay in South West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some great places to stay in South West:

  1. Hotel Monville: This modern hotel is located in the heart of downtown Montreal.

  2. Auberge Saint-Paul: This historic inn is located in the charming neighborhood of Old Montreal.

  3. Hostel M Montreal: This trendy hostel offers affordable accommodation and is located in the heart of the city.

What to Buy in South West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some great souvenirs and local products to bring home from South West:

  1. Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, and you can find many varieties in South West.

  2. Artisanal Cheeses: Quebec produces some of the best cheeses in the world, and you can find them at the Atwater Market.

  3. Handmade Crafts: You can find many handmade crafts at the Atwater Market, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of South West

South West is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors can experience a mix of French and English traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it’s common to greet people with a friendly “Bonjour!”

Best Time to Visit South West

The best time to visit South West is from May to October when the weather is mild, and there are many outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of South West

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine.

  2. Take a bike ride along the Lachine Canal.

  3. Visit the Atwater Market.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public spaces.

  2. Be loud or disruptive in residential areas.

  3. Be rude to locals or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in South West

South West is a safe neighborhood, but visitors should take precautions to keep their belongings safe and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in South West

Visitors should ensure that they have adequate health insurance before traveling to Canada. The tap water is safe to drink, and there are many hospitals and clinics in the area.

Getting to South West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South West

The closest airport to South West is Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, which is located about 20 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near South West

The closest bus station is the Montreal Bus Station, which is located in the city center.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi, Uber, or rent a car to get around the city.

How to Get Around in South West

The best way to explore South West is on foot, by bike, or by public transportation. The neighborhood is well-connected by buses, trains, and metro lines.

Where to Go Next from South West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some great nearby destinations and excursions from South West:

  1. Old Montreal: Step back in time and explore the charming neighborhood of Old Montreal.

  2. Plateau Mont-Royal: This neighborhood is known for its trendy shops and vibrant nightlife.

  3. Quebec City: Take a day trip to Quebec City and explore the historic city’s many attractions.

Conclusion

South West is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers something for everyone. From natural wonders to cultural attractions, visitors are guaranteed to have a memorable experience. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be ready to explore all that South West has to offer.

Avenue Atwater Avenue Atwater Gramophones and phonographs in the permanent exhibit of the Musée des ondes Emile Berliner Gramophones and phonographs in the permanent exhibit of the Musée des ondes Emile Berliner View across the Lachine Canal View across the Lachine Canal Atwater Market Atwater Market Old Town Hall of Cote-Saint-Paul Old Town Hall of Cote-Saint-Paul