by Maria Barillaro
Paris may be known as the City of Love but don’t underestimate the power of romance right here in Montreal. Whether you’re planning on popping the question, or just planning the perfect date, here are the most romantic spots for lovers in our fine city.
Winter goes on for what seems like an eternity around here. If you want to get some fresh air with your special someone, it might be a good idea to find a few ways to enjoy the cooler weather. Skating at the Natrel Rink in the Old Port is one idea. With music, romantic lighting, and a sparkling Christmas tree, this winter activity is both serene and romantic. Surrounded by the Old Port’s historic architecture, like the Clock Tower, and a view of the St. Lawrence River, it’s hard not to fall in love with this location. But there are plenty of other places where you can skate outdoors in the city.
During the warmer part of the year, nothing will make for a more romantic setting than a cruise along the St. Lawrence over dinner. A team of chefs work together to offer the finest cuisine, including duck confit, filet mignon, and fresh seafood. With an accompanying bottle of wine, and an array of delectable cheeses, you won’t be disappointed. While you dine, you and your other half can enjoy the views of the St. Lawrence River as the boat cruises past the Lachine Canal, the Clock Tower, and under the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, from one end of the island to the other.
The ambiance of this downtown rooftop garden is as calming as you can get right in the heart of the city. The soothing sound of the water and 2.5 acres of green landscape make for a very romantic setting. Plus, you can take a dip in the year-round heated rooftop pool, enjoy a cocktail together at the poolside bar, or sit down for a quiet dinner for two.
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No matter which Montreal location of Cacao 70 you visit, your date is sure to be perfect here. Enjoy something sweet with your sweetheart as you choose from an endless variety of hot chocolate options, decadent dessert pizzas (we’re talking melted marshmallows drizzled in chocolate, on a pizza!), and their signature chocolate crepes, this place is a guaranteed success for any romantic night out.
Whether you’re watching the sun rise or set, the city view in the background makes the scene even more breathtaking. From the grassy green hill all the way to the St. Lawrence, from the top of the mountain you and your loved one will see the city in a whole new light.
Time Magazine dubbed this bike path one of the most beautiful urban circuits in the world in 2009, and with good reason. The cyclist path is flat, easy to navigate, and takes about an hour to explore from start to finish. During your bike ride together, you and your special someone will get to see stunning art displays along the path, a view of the city’s downtown skyline, Parc René-Levesque, and Lake Saint-Louis. You can rent a Bixi bicycle and head off to explore. In the wintertime, you can opt for cross-country skiing along the path instead.
There’s just something about the cobblestone roads, the centuries-old buildings along de la Commune Street, and the port along the St. Lawrence that make the Old City one of the most romantic destinations on the island. You and your special someone can stop in at nearly any restaurant for a delicious meal – this city is known for fine cuisine! Then head for Beaver Tails for dessert, sit on a bench to listen to the peaceful sounds of the river, watch the sun set, the snow fall, or even cuddle up on a horse drawn carriage ride. It’s nearly impossible not to have a night filled with romance here.
Whether it’s the good food, fine wines, the sounds of nature, or the view of the city, there are so many ways to up the romance factor right here. From a first date to a special occasion, romance is in the air all over this stunning city.
