Observation Deck of Saint-Charles

Most of Montreal’s best views come with elevation—and a crowd. But this spot in Pointe-Saint-Charles offers a low-key alternative. Technically just a retaining wall at the edge of a residential street, it’s perched just high enough to clear the rooftops and rail lines, revealing a surprisingly cinematic glimpse of the downtown skyline. The ascent is modest—about 20 steps, or a steady ramp—but the effect is quietly dramatic, especially at sunset.

Discovered by chance on a jog-turned-bike ride, this informal lookout near Parc Marguerite-Bourgeoys has become a personal landmark. It’s not marked, not maintained, and doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. Just a wall doing its job, doubling as an unintentional viewing platform.

Consider starting a walking loop here that cuts through back alleys and dead-ends, ending at the park. Along the way, you’ll trace the industrial DNA of The Point—one of Montreal’s oldest working-class neighbourhoods, now shifting under the weight of redevelopment.

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An offbeat map of Montreal

An offbeat map of Montreal

Your companion to tracking the city’s most local, unexpected, and under-the-radar spots.

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