PLACE DU VILLAGE-DE-LAPOINTE-AUX-TREMBLES

STEP BACK IN TIME: Established in 1674, Pointe-aux-Trembles is one of Montreal’s oldest urban parishes. Along with Rivière-des-Prairies, it makes up the multi-hyphenated borough situated at the eastern tip of the island. Surrounded by the St. Lawrence Riv

1. Vieux-Moulin

Built between 1719 and 1721 by Jean-Baptiste Deguire, a master mason and bricklayer, the stone windmill’s original purpose was to mill grain. Later, it was used as a fortress during enemy attacks. The structure is one of the province’s oldest, and tallest, windmills.

2. Marché de la Place du Village

This outdoor farmers’ market is located in the heart of Place du Village-de-la-Pointe-aux-Trembles with butchers, bakers, cheese makers and vintners. The market is open from May to September, and includes a small seasonal sugar shack.

3. Pointe-aux-Prairies Nature Park

The nature park, which covers an area of 261 hectares (or 645 acres), is blessed with a variety of ecosystems like forests, marshes and fields. It houses a picturesque old country house called the Maison Bleau, which doubles as an artists’ residence. There are also 12 kilometres of bike paths, three picnic areas, and a nature centre.

4. Golf Club of the Island of Montreal

With two courses fit for champions — the Ireland Course and Island Course — a driving range, golf academy and pub, this golf club is the real deal on the east end.

5. Gouin Boulevard

In addition to being the longest street in Montreal, stretching for 50 kilometres from one end of the island to the other along the Prairies River, Gouin Boulevard is famous for its scenic, waterfront bike path.

6. Saint-Joseph Church

Designed by the architect Victor Bourgeau, who also worked on the interior of Notre Dame Basilica, the Saint-Joseph Church was built between 1875 and 1879, and is often used to host intimate musical concerts. The church is near Saint-Joseph Park.