Neighbourhood spotlight: Verdun, Montreal

Verdun

Each month we will highlight a fascinating residential neighbourhood of one of Canada’s iconic cities. Get to know the communities, under-the-radar eateries and hidden parks that contribute to the unique personality of any great city. This month, read on to discover Verdun in Montreal.

Neighbourhood: Verdun

Location within city: Southwest, on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

What makes it great: Verdun’s proximity to the St. Lawrence River has shaped its history – indeed, the lush parks lining the waterfront were originally built to protect the area from flooding. Today, they’re populated with locals and visitors cycling riverside bike paths, playing soccer in nearby sports fields, or sunning themselves on grassy banks.

Slice of history: Verdun is one of Canada’s oldest settlements, having existed as its own city since 1671 before joining Montréal in 2002.

Local eats: Tuck into flavourful Cambodian street food at Les Street Monkeys, housed in hip, industrial-chic surroundings.

Cool activity: Meander over the Champlain Bridge and spend an afternoon at Nun’s Island, a leafy suburban area with quiet parks, waterfront paths and the Strøm Nordic Spa.

Afternoon itinerary: Architectural enthusiasts will rejoice in Verdun’s architectural marvels. Spend an afternoon drifting among them – the modernist Verdun Auditorium, the four buildings of Nun’s Island created by legendary German-American architect Mies Van der Rohe, and the gorgeous interiors of the Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church. End the day at Verdun’s Natatorium outdoor pool, an art deco gem that can hold 1,500 swimmers.