Cap-Saint-Jacques: a beach in the countryside on the island of Montréal
This article was updated on July 4, 2022.
No need to leave Montréal to find yourself in a nature park or on a beach. Simply head the western part of the island, to the Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques, the largest park in the city. It's ideal for a picnic under the trees or by the water, bordered by the Lac des Deux Montagnes and the Rivières des Prairies.
Farm
Also accessible by bike, a small panoramic road lined with fields and woods leads to a farm, probably the only one in the metropolis. Cows, donkeys and horses graze in the meadow not far from the barn.
It a perfect spot for kids to see their favourite barnyard friends up close. The henhouse also catches their attention, as fresh eggs are sold locally.
General Store
Advertised as an ecological farm, the General Store sells organic veggies grown on site throughout the season: asparagus, radishes, green onions as well as herbs including mint and oregano.
Farm produce such as pickled beets and pumpkin jam line shelves under the label Les Jardins du Cap. There is also honey and maple syrup, fresh from the farm's sugar shack.
It is worth noting that this non-profit agri-tourism company is operated by D-Trois-Pierres, an organization that employs and allows people to re-enter the labour market.
Swimming and relaxing
Further west on Boulevard Gouin, another small road leads this time to the beach. At the edge of a bay and surrounded by trees, it is not very large but offers an idyllic view. The Lac des Deux Montagnes stretches out in front, and in the distance, the hills of Oka are visible.
Free from motorized boats and sheltered from the wind, the bay lends itself well to a paddleboard or kayak ride. Back on shore, watching these small, silent boats drifting along is so peaceful.
Time to relax with your feet in the sand. Grab a book and enjoy while relaxing in vacation mode.
Time for a picnic
Between the beach and Château Goyer, picnic tables are set up everywhere. Head to the end of the point for a beautiful panoramic view. Listen to the waves crashing on the rocks on a windy day. It's almost like being by the sea.
Picnic tables can also be found in the corner of the farm, in front of the General Store and under the trees. There are also some in the shade near Maison Brunet and on the water's edge. In case there are no more free tables, it is a good idea to bring a blanket.
Top off the day by watching the sunset at the farm, by the water or at the beach. Be dazzled by the hues of the setting sun on the horizon in front of Lac des Deux Montagnes — simply breathtaking.
Good to know
Capacity of the beach: 2500 to 3000 people
Admission: $4 per child (6-17 years) and per senior (60 years and over), $5.50 per adult
Parking (beach or farm): $9.75 per day
https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-nature-du-cap-saint-jacques
Alain Demers
While exploring to discover nature and outdoor sports, Montréal resident Alain Demers has found that we have access to truly unique places that are still not well-known. Columnist for several media including Le Journal de Montréal and Vifa, he has written a dozen books. His most recent work, published by Éditions du Journal, is entitled Redécouvrir le Québec: 101 destinations.