A STROLL ON MT. ROYAL
Embark on a leisurely journey with me through the beating heart of Montreal – Mount Royal Park. Jacques Cartier, inspired by the landscape during his 1535 visit, coined the name "Mont Royal," shaping the city's toponymy. Starting at Avenue du Parc, often dubbed the Angel of the Mountain, where the Monument to Sir George-Étienne Cartier stands tall, sculptor George William Hill commemorates this Father of Confederation with a 30-meter high masterpiece.
On Sundays (in normal times), Montrealers gather for the famed Mount Royal Tam-Tam, an unofficial festival resonating with drummers, dancers, vendors, and a diverse crowd. The rhythmic sounds and patchouli scent create an unforgettable experience.
Now, let's traverse the Olmsted Trail, a 4.5km path paying homage to Frederick Law Olmsted, the visionary behind this park and New York's Central Park. Despite opposition, he preserved the mountain's natural beauty.
Our journey unfolds with four must-visit stops:
1. **Beaver Lake:** An artificial lake, a relic from 1938, surrounded by gentle hills perfect for picnics. The modern Pavilion, with its zig-zag roof, invites admiration.
2. **Kondiaronc Belvedere:** Offering a breathtaking view, this lookout stands adjacent to the Chalet du parc du Mont-Royal, a blend of Beaux-Arts and Arts & Craft architecture. The geodesic dome of the Biosphere and distant Monteregian mountains grace the panorama.
3. **Mountain Cross:** Inaugurated in 1924, this illuminated monument pays homage to Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve's wooden cross. Its distant view reveals grace amid symbolism.
4. **Saint Joseph's Oratory:** Our journey concludes on the mountain's north-western flank at this religious complex. Inaugurated in 1967, its neo-classical-renaissance-big-dome architecture is a sight to behold. Stained glass windows, both traditional and modern, adorn this haven, drawing over two million annual visitors.
As we wrap up our stroll, consider a visit to Côte des Neiges station, just minutes away. If you desire a memento, explore the "Stroll on the Mountain" series patches. It's been an enriching exploration, a blend of history, nature, and culture – the essence of Mount Royal.