Embracing nature in Montreal

08/23/2018

The benefit of domestic travel is that there's always something new to explore in your home country without the inconvenience of international flights, language and cultural barriers. Montreal is one of Canada's most popular destinations. The largest city in Canada's province of Quebec, it's impossible to get bored in Montreal, whether you're staying for a week or just stopping in for the day. Something very unique to the city is its abundance of nature-related sites worth exploring. Next time you're in Montreal, check out these unique spots:

Mount Royal

The city's namesake and an official heritage site, according to Les amis de la montagne, Mount Royal and its three summits are at the heart of Montreal. If you happen to catch some nice weather during your visit, the city view from the top of the mountain is not to be missed. Additionally, the mountain park is home to biking and walking trails, summer rowboats and winter skating on Beaver lake.

The following attractions are all housed within the Space for Life natural science museum complex:

Biodome

The Biodome is one of Montreal's most unique attractions. Ville de Montreal revealed the meaning of its title, "house of life," which is quite fitting due to the hundreds of animal and plant species present within the Biodome. The Biodome is also home to a number of astonishing features, including the wall of ice, a "living wall" and scenic habitats specially designed to create an immersive and dynamic visitor experience. Highly entertaining for adults and children alike, there's much to explore in Montreal's Biodome.

Botanical Garden

This stunning spot is another perfect location if the weather is right. The botanical garden is acknowledged as one of the greatest botanical gardens in the world, noted Montreal Info. Better yet, in addition to over 22,000 plant species to see in the gardens, a wide array of exhibitions, events and activities are hosted on the premises year-round. Located a ride away from the centre of Montreal, the botanical garden is a great complement when you visit the nearby Biodome.

Insectarium

If you'd rather inspect living organisms than plants, head straight for the Insectarium. Nearly 30 years old, the Insectarium is known to be one of the largest insect museums in North America. Intriguing for all ages and accessible regardless of the weather, you're sure to be fascinated when you start exploring. According to the Montreal Museums Society, the Insectarium holds about 250,000 specimens. This place is definitely not your average zoo, so come by ready to learn and explore the smaller components of nature.

One of the best aspects of Montreal is its diversity of attractions. Whether you adore spending time in nature, are intrigued by how life in the universe coexists or just enjoy stopping to smell the roses, there's a natural attraction for everyone in the big city. Enjoy time with your family or take a moment to refresh on a solo trip, all while exploring what nature has to offer in the surrounding neighbourhoods of Montreal.