Perhaps you’ve pondered what lies beyond the mountain. That’s Outremont. Today, we will explore this affluent borough of Montreal. It is a place where history meets modern life.
Outremont, a name meaning “beyond the mountain”, sits on the northwestern side of Mount Royal. Imagine travelers of old. They journeyed north from downtown Montreal. They had to pass “through” the mountain. This gave Outremont its unique name.
In 1875, Louis Beaubien played a clever trick. He needed enough residents for the village to get federal sanction. So, he counted barns and farm buildings as residences. The town then changed its name from Cote-Sainte-Catherine to Outremont. It had a population of only 300.
Fast forward to 1927. Outremont became a pioneer. It was the first place to use a snow blower. This invention cleared its streets in winter. It was Arthur Sicard’s first production model.
Outremont has many features that make it special. Its major streets include Van Horne, Bernard, and Laurier. These are filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Many residents are French expatriates. There’s also a large Hassidic Jewish community. They make up about 20% of Outremont’s population. Synagogues, schools, and businesses are on Van Horne, Bernard, and St-Viateur.
Outremont offers a village feel. It is close to the vibrant neighborhoods of Mile End and Plateau Mont-Royal. The streets are well-kept. The parks are beautifully landscaped. Good schools and thriving businesses add to its charm.
Laurier Avenue is a must-see. It has boutiques for homeware, clothing, and jewelry. Take a walk through the pretty streets. You can also hike up to Haut Outremont. Don’t miss the Mount Royal Cemetery. Especially when the crab-apple trees are in bloom.
For food lovers, Bernard and Van Horne offer a feast. You can find Italian, Syrian, and French cuisine. For dessert, grab a cone at Bilboquet.
Outremont’s homes are luxurious. The higher up the hill you go, the more expensive they become. Haut Outremont is between Mount Royal Cemetery and Cote-Sainte-Catherine. The properties here are worth millions. Northwest of Cote-Sainte-Catherine are traditional homes. They are mixed with modern buildings and parks.
Parc Outremont and Parc Saint-Viateur are popular spots. People from nearby Mile End come here to relax. Outremont is mainly French-speaking. It also has a diverse community. Including Montreal’s largest Hassidic Jewish community.
Living in Outremont means enjoying the best of both worlds. A quiet, residential area. Close to the action of the city. It is easy to get around on foot. You can explore shops, bakeries, and restaurants.
Outremont’s cultural life is vibrant. The Outremont Theatre is a highlight. The borough also has famous schools. Stanislas College attracts children of French and European expatriates. The Universite de Montreal adds to the area’s appeal.
The real estate market in Outremont is thriving. You can find mansions and elegant condos. The apartments are large and luxurious. Residents love Outremont. They wouldn’t trade it for anything. Whether it’s a house or apartment, it offers a lifetime of happiness.
Outremont truly lives up to its name. It’s a unique place. It is located beyond the mountain. A blend of history, culture, and modern living. Thank you for joining me on this tour of Outremont.