Things To Do
in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot

Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot is a small, predominantly French-speaking community on Île Perrot in western Quebec, just west of Montreal. It sits on Lac des Deux Montagnes, offering scenic shorelines and a relaxed island vibe. The town blends rural charm with convenient access to urban culture, thanks to bridges and nearby Montreal.

Visitors can enjoy cycling, water activities, local markets, and family-friendly attractions year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Shores
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the picturesque shoreline of Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot. The gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore and the scent of fresh air will invigorate your senses. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local café before settling in to enjoy the serene views.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting the charming parks, such as Parc Harbour, where you can enjoy a picnic or engage in recreational activities like cycling or kayaking. This family-friendly park offers playgrounds and open spaces perfect for relaxation. Try to catch a glimpse of local wildlife as you explore the beautiful greens.

evening
:

As the sun sets, unwind at a cozy restaurant overlooking the lake, savoring local cuisine paired with fine wines. The atmosphere is tranquil, making it the perfect setting to reflect on your day. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront before heading back to your accommodation.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the local art galleries and craft shops that showcase the talent of local artists. Engage with the creative community and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take home. The vibrant colors and stunning creations will fill your morning with inspiration.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, attend a workshop to learn about traditional crafts such as pottery or painting, guided by skilled artisans. This hands-on experience will deepen your understanding of the local culture and craftsmanship. You'll leave with not only a creation of your own but also enriched memories of your experiences.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at one of the local theaters or community centers, where you can catch a live performance or a film screening. The cultural events often highlight local stories and talents, offering a glimpse into the heart of the community. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful evening stroll back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-20
🥖Groceries per week$60-120
🚗Gas per liter$1.50-2.00
🏨Hotel nightly rate$100-180
Coffee at cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Tranquil island atmosphere with waterfront views
  • Easy access to Montreal and Montérégie activities
  • Family-friendly with lots of outdoor options
  • Charming village feel and local markets
  • Limited nightlife and urban amenities on the island itself
  • Public transit options are lighter compared to central Montreal

Places to Visit in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot

Visit one of these nice places.

Lac des Deux-Montagnes shoreline at sunset

Vibrant skies reflecting on calm water with boats in the foreground for wide, cinematic shots.

Île Perrot Marina

Docks, boats, and reflections ideal for long-exposure and composition-focused images.

Village main street with storefronts

Charming, colorful facades and everyday life provide authentic street photography moments.

Riverside park overlook

Panoramic lake views and greenery; great for golden-hour photography.

Early morning fog on the lake

Soft light and tranquil mood along the shore, perfect for moody landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot

The cuisine here blends Quebecois staples with fresh regional ingredients and easy access to Montreal’s diverse food scene.

Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tourtière

A classic Quebec meat pie with a flaky crust and seasoned filling; commonly found in local cafés and markets.

Must-Try!

Poutine

Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy; a ubiquitous comfort food that appears in many eateries across the island.

Maple-glazed salmon

Seasonal, locally sourced salmon brushed with maple glaze and served with seasonal sides at nearby eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Île Perrot Farmers' Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and maple products; a great place to taste local flavors.

Lac des Deux-Montagnes waterfront stalls

Seasonal outdoor stalls along the shore offering snacks with lake views; perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Located in a humid continental climate zone, the area experiences cold, snowy winters and warm, sometimes hot summers. Spring and fall bring transitional weather with variable conditions; plan for layering year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language and politeness

French is the predominant language; greet with 'Bonjour' and be courteous. In many venues, staff may switch to English if needed, but attempting French is appreciated.

Public etiquette

Keep voices moderate in public spaces, respect residential areas, and be mindful of bicycle and pedestrian sharing on paths.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for visitors. Use standard precautions: watch traffic on roads and bike paths, wear life jackets when on the water, lock up bicycles, and stay aware of weather changes, especially near the lake.

Tipping in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Quebec, tipping of 15-20% at restaurants is customary for good service; tax is added at the point of sale in many places.

Payments

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still handy for small markets and food stalls.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with rain showers; landscapes come alive with blossoms. Pack layered clothing and a light rain shell.

Summer

Warm days with refreshing lake breezes; ideal for outdoor dining, cycling, and water activities. Sun protection is a must.

Autumn

Crips air and vibrant fall colors along the shoreline. Dress in layers and plan for cooler evenings.

Winter

Cold temperatures with possible snow; indoor venues, ice skating, and cozy cafes become focal points.

Nightlife Guide

Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot at Night

The island's nightlife is low-key, with casual cafes and family-friendly venues. In warmer months, some spots offer live music on patios or small outdoor events; for a broader nightlife scene, Montreal's bars and clubs are a short drive away.

Hiking in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverfront Nature Trail

A flat, scenic trail along the shoreline offering water views and opportunities for wildlife watching.

Lakeside Loop Trail

Gentle looping trail around the lake edge, suitable for a relaxed hike or jog.

Airports

How to reach Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot by plane.

Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Main international gateway near Montreal; typically a 20–40 minute drive from Île Perrot depending on traffic.

Montreal Saint-Hubert Longueuil Airport (YHU)

Smaller regional airport serving some domestic and international flights; about 30–50 minutes by car depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

The village is walkable with a compact center; sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly paths connect key spots, though some trips to waterfront sections are better done by bike or car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live on the island, contributing to a community-oriented, safe environment.

Seniors

A number of longtime residents and retirees; quiet neighborhoods with accessible amenities.

Bilingual/Franco-anglophone

Predominantly Francophone with a subset of bilingual residents and visitors from the greater Montreal area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

A central part of Quebec culture; many residents participate in or watch games, especially in winter.

Cycling

Popular on island bike paths and in the surrounding region during warmer months.

Fishing

Seasonal activity along Lac des Deux Montagnes and nearby waterways.

Transportation

Traffic

Access to the island is via bridges; within the island, traffic is typically light to moderate with peak times in the morning and early evening. Montreal-area public transit serves the broader region, but most visitors rely on a car or bike to get around the island and nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetable-forward dishes, salads, soups, and dairy options; ask for meatless versions of local plates.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are accessible via nearby towns with clinics and hospitals in the broader Montreal region; for emergencies, use regional emergency services and local clinics for non-emergency needs.

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