Founded in 1642 on a large island in the middle of the mighty St. Lawrence River, Montréal has developed into a fascinating city over the centuries. The economic hub of Québec, and home to dozens of prominent cultural events, Montréal delights in its past and takes visitors on a journey through multiple historical facets. A city filled with paradox, Montréal effectively melds vast open spaces with skyscrapers; heritage sites with the modern city; and the flavours of Europe with the rhythms of North America.
Following on the heels of those who built Montréal and its surroundings – its First Nations, the French, and the English – the Lock Keeper’s Tour features enchanting landscapes along a bicycle path that is the envy of many. This Tour invites you to explore the historical and natural heritage of First Nations tribes who occupied this territory for more than 5,000 years, with their values and customs as a backdrop; and the extensive canal system that was built in the 19th and 20th centuries in order to circumvent the rapids that blocked the passage of trade on the St. Lawrence upstream of Montréal. Sights on this Tour include locks, lakes, wide open spaces, canals, historical sites, and archaeological sites. You will be thrilled by the variety of landscapes and the richness and diversity of the experience.
Taste the local flavours of Québec, move to the lively rhythm of Montréal, and allow yourself to be lulled by the peaceful paths along Canada’s most majesty waterway. Step back in time on a simple journey, and discover comfort and a wealth of little pleasures along the way.
Daily itinerary for the Route
- Saturday - Arrival and warm-up ride (approximately 10 km)
- Sunday - Montréal’s Old Port – Lachine Canal – Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue (43 km)
- Monday - Lac Saint-Louis –Soulanges Canal – Valleyfield (44 km)
- Tuesday - Valleyfield – Lac Saint-François – Valleyfield (38 km)
- Wednesday - Valleyfield – Parc régional du canal Beauharnois – Beauharnois (40 km)
- Thursday - Beauharnois – Châteauguay – Lachine – Old Port (45 km)
- Friday - Departure from the Old Port
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