Category: Near Montreal

Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rigaud, Quebec, Canada

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The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes is a place of pilgrimage situated in the hillside of Rigaud, in a green natural area; dedicated to the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception. This place recalls the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, at Lourdes in France. Brother Ludger Pauzé is the person who placed a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes on the hill in 1874 and he, his superior, François-Xavier Chouinard, as well as professors and students came fervent pray to the Virgin with him. From there, the place is visited by pilgrims from different countries. There is a team of religious, volunteers and staff to welcome the people. There is a central chapel, the cave with the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes and a small chapel at the top. The sanctuary is at the end of Lourdes street at the foot of the hill.

Tips

For service schedules, it’s best to look on the sanctuary page. There is a Rosary every day at 16:00. If you want to spend part of the day with friends or family, you will find a place to eat and get some rest, there are toilets and mountain trails for hiking. There are two crosses situated on the hill accessed by trails. Wear comfortable shoes because you will ride through trails or long stairs.

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HI-Ottawa Jail hostel, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

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The Hl-Ottawa Jail hostel is located in the former prison of Carleton County (1862-1972). This is the only hostel of its kind in North America. The original architecture has been preserved with its walls made of stone and brick and cells were transformed into dormitories. This prison was considered one of the most haunted buildings in Canada. The building is conveniently located in the city center, just steps from Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, the Byward Market, shops, cafes, the Canadian Museum of Civilization, in short everything a tourist wants to know while in town. The night comes accompanied with a delicious continental breakfast: fair trade coffee, tea, juice, fruit and bagel baked in the region, eggs, milk and cereals. Of course, you have wi-fi.

Tips

Do not miss the tour of the prison offered free with your stay every day at 11:00. If you arrive by car, there is a paid parking at $12.00 per day. The inn offers holidays with a lot of emotions, weekly activities, guided tours and evenings at the bar. If you want to have new experiences and meet other travelers, you will have the opportunity to share your cell-room with other tourists.

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Festival des Neiges of Montreal, Quebec, Canada

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The Fête des Neiges de Montréal is an event that takes place every year over several weekends. This time, it will be done at Espace 67, the new field for events at Parc Jean Drapeau, from January, 18th to February, 9th. There are a lot of winter activities there: slides, dog sleds, skating, ice sculptures and shows, among others. There is a gourmet space with several restaurateurs but you can also bring your lunch and have it at the chalet in the space reserved for that.

Tips

The best way to get there is by metro and get off at Jean-Drapeau station. If you prefer to go by car, you have to pay for the parking.
Purchasing your pass will give you unlimited access for the duration of the event. Children 2 and under do not pay and there is the possibility of buying a little bit cheaper family package for 4 people (2 adults-2 children).
You can bring your skates, your utility sledge or your snowshoes or simply rent them on site.
Open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.