Tropical atmosphere in the south of Montreal

For a fourth summer already take place the Latin evenings at the dance floor of the John-Galgher block, commonly called the Verdun track, a few steps from the St. Lawrence.

It is not far from the Rapids park, a paradise of birds where it is worth making a small detour before the evening.

I recently went to the track. There is always this beautiful tropical atmosphere created by salsa and bachata, music recalling Cuba or the Dominican Republic.

Dancing under the stars

In reality, we dance even more than in many resorts South. Bordered by the cycle path, the outdoor dance floor is large and covered by a roof protecting us from small bad weather.

Around, you can settle with a folding chair. We bring something to drink for the evening.

To have been there several times, I have not seen anyone having drunk too much. Latin dance followers, many of whom are hikers and cyclists, first indulge in their passion.

If there are a lot of good dancers, many are almost in their first steps. They are of all ages: from 20 to 65 years old. They don’t just come from Montreal, but also from the South Shore, Gatineau or even Toronto, not to mention some American tourists.

Monika’s passion

It was his passion for dance, developed during his trips to Cuba, which gradually brought Monika Popiel, from Mika Events, to organize these evenings.

She who likes to make kayak walks has not moved too much from the water, the track being in the heart of a local park.

The Rapids Park

Further west, on boulevard lasalle vis-à-vis 6^e Avenue, a few minutes by car, this other riparian park is distinguished by a path leading to the spectacular rapids of Lachine.

As in Florida or elsewhere in the south where there are swamps and mangroves, we can see herons, ducks and other aquatic birds. Twins make experience even more interesting. It’s worth the detour!

The Verdun track

Latin dance evenings: from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sundays: July 13 and 27

Saturdays: July 19, August 9 and 16, September 6 and 20, October 11

Entrance fees: $ 10 (on -site payment)

Nearby: picnic areas

www.facebook.com/MikaMonikaM

Alain Demers is the author of the book Rediscover Quebec: 101 destinationspublished by Journal Éditions.

The Coaticook Valley

The pedestrian bridge suspended above the throat, the longest in North America, it is said, as well as the illuminated Foresta Lumina circuit alone are worth the movement. Camping, ready-to-camper, and more.

www.tourismecoaticook.qc.ca

At the Mauricie National Park

At Lake Wapizagonke, a bridge overlooks a path to shallow waterfalls, where you can cool off. Near the picnic area, there is a small beach where you rent boats.

https://parcs.canada.ca/pn-np/qc/mauricie/