Bike Bliss: Discovering Montreal in the Tour de L'Île

On June 2nd, Tammy and I joined approximately 20,000 other cycling enthusiasts for Montreal's iconic Tour de L’Ile. This 50-kilometer (about 30 miles) ride transforms the city into a "Big Party in Motion," with roads completely closed to traffic. It's a spectacular event that has grown significantly since its inception in 1985 by Vélo Québec, which initially attracted 3,500 participants. The event reached its zenith in the early 1990s, boasting 45,000 riders at a time when it was one of the few of its kind worldwide.

The weather was perfect—sunny and in the upper 70s with a refreshing breeze. Our route wound through major downtown streets, skirted the northern edge of Mount Royal, meandered through the southwestern boroughs, hugged the scenic St. Lawrence River, and concluded at Jeanne-Mance Park where a massive celebration awaited, complete with a beer garden.

One of the most remarkable experiences was cycling on major roads devoid of cars. Despite operational traffic lights, thousands of us breezed through red lights without a hitch, enveloped in a surreal, car-free bubble.

There were rest stations in parks along the way where free ice cold cartons of chocolate milk were handed out to thirsty riders. And all along the route, hundreds of Velo Quebec volunteers stood along the route with bells and plastic clappers, cheering us on with shouts of "Bravo!!"

All ages and bike types were represented--this family finished the 30 miles with ease.

A view of Barclay Street in the Mount Royal neighborhood blissfully free of traffic.

La Salle street along miles of parkland on the St. Lawrence River

Free Lait Au Chocolat at a rest stop!

Some riders on chopper e-bikes at the finish line party.

Being in Montreal, one must finish the ride in the beer garden with poutine....