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My Recommendations for Places to Visit
Recently, a backpacker asked me online for my recommendations for Montreal. As a local, I don’t see the city from a tourist perspective, but there’s one activity I particularly enjoy during autumn: an electric bicycle ride up Mont-Royal Mountain in Mont-Royal Park.
When I say “climb,” it’s a small hill, standing at 232 meters above sea level, northwest of downtown Montreal. Half of it is a graveyard, and the other half features a well-maintained trail leading to a large cross at the summit. I love using the ‘BIXI Montréal’ public bicycles for this adventure.
Why We Recommend It
Riding up the mountain on an electric bike is easier than walking and requires less effort than a regular bicycle. It’s an exhilarating way to view the autumn leaves and landscape from a higher vantage point. When descending, you hardly have to pedal and never feel out of breath.
When renting a BIXI, remember that wearing a helmet is mandatory. Check the prices, as there are options for membership or hourly rentals. While a personal electric bike would be ideal, renting one for under $10 is perfect for a fun outing.
A Deeper Experience
As you get used to it, try climbing the mountain at dusk. By the time you descend, it will be dark and pitch black. There are hardly any street lights, and a single electric bicycle light barely illuminates the path. I ride side by side with my companion, doubling the light to see better. If you’re not used to riding at night, I don’t recommend it. Falling off the mountain could be dangerous. If you decide to cycle at night, bring an extra light and go with a companion for safety.
The atmosphere of the mountain at night, especially with its half-graveyard setting, is eerie and makes you miss people, even if you have a companion. It’s a relief to meet groups of people descending the mountain, but encountering a raccoon in the dark can be quite a surprise.
A Mysterious Experience
One night, something strange happened. A man wearing a hat and coat passed by us on a vintage rustic bicycle without making a sound, faintly visible in the scarce electric light. I turned around and saw him climbing up unnaturally fast. I tried to see his face as he passed by, but it appeared black and flabby. Normally, I would think it was my imagination, but my companion agreed it was eerie how quickly he approached without making a sound.
I believe that was probably not a living person. If I had seen it alone, I would have thought I was mistaken, but my companion repeatedly said it was eerie how quickly it approached an ordinary bicycle without making a sound.
I’ve had some weird experiences all over Quebec, but I’ll share more when I get around to it. I hope you enjoy the dynamic autumn and the beautiful fall colours!
