Enjoy the greenery

Did you know that St-Henri is one of the longest pedestrian walkways in Montreal? A well-kept secret, le parc du Premier-Chemin-de-Fer is a discreet green path passing between the houses of the district and which connects the metro stations Lionel-Groulx and Place St-Henri. It is perfect for a relaxing walk under the trees, sheltered from the warm rays of the sun and the hustle and bustle of the city.

Photos : zovile

Asked to continue the walk, the woornef St-Pierre is another little-known place in which it is worth venturing. Born from a Dutch concept that means “friendly street”, it is actually a street completely refurbished so that we can indulge, and safely, to several outdoor activities such as walking, relaxation, and family games. With its 7,000 square meters and hundreds of trees and shrubs, woornef St-Pierre brings life to this originally residential street.

Photos : Arrondissement du Sud-Ouest

Continue your walk west. Square Sir-Georges-Étienne-Cartier – located at the corner of the street of the same name and the omnipresent rue Notre-Dame – also has a sculpture-fountain worthy of note. Indeed, it occupies the central square of this rectangular park lined with dwellings with luxurious architecture. Interesting fact: all the facades of these houses are made of stone or decorative brick, according to the request of the mayor of the time. Installed during the inauguration of the park in 1912, the industrial cast iron fountain made by the New York Foundry J. L. Mott Iron Works is adorned with plant motifs and birds. At the top, two carved cherubim contemplate a flute. The fountain taking place in the center of a basin is also equipped with two basins from which the water flows. Choose one of the benches placed around the fountain and enjoy the decor to refuel … or the empty! With its mature trees and small paths, the space is conducive to relaxation.

In your search for calm and greenery, another interesting option is available to you. Go to the discovery of the magnificent handmade fountains enthroned in the parks of St-Henri. First stop: parc St-Henri (formerly Jacques-Cartier Square) located at the corner of Agnès and St-Antoine Streets. First of all, there is the imposing monument to Jacques Cartier dating from 1893, the work of sculptor Joseph-Arthur Vincent. This sculpture-fountain is more than nine meters high and is covered with golden decorative elements, a bit offbeat, such as beaver and Amerindian faces.