Big surf on a city river is not exactly the first thing that comes to mind to those with some knowledge of the water sport. In Montreal, however, the St. Lawrence River invites beach bums to hit its rugged waves and perfect their skills at the otherwise urban locale. Guests can stay at the Westin Montreal Hotel this summer and have the body of water in close proximity to their lodging, providing the perfect means for an exhilarating holiday they may never forget.
In one particular spot, the Montreal river forms eddies and rough white water, and that is just outside the perimeter of Habitat 67, the architectural masterpiece created by Moshe Safdie for the 1967 World Expo.
In order to catch the surf, adventurers have to hold onto a rope fed from the shore so that the force of the stream does not whisk them away. Once they've entered the central spot where the waves begin to break, they can release the rope and head downtown while riding these unexpected urban waves.
For those who have never attempted the sport, the city offers river surfing classes, providing all of the equipment necessary as part of the package. Those who stay at the downtown Montreal hotel can request more information from the concierge and take advantage of this unique city activity.
