A Journey Through Montreal’s Sunrises
There’s a certain magic in the moments before dawn, when the world is still sleeping in the quiet embrace of night. Over the past few months, I’ve found myself drawn to this refreshing time, waking up early to explore Montreal as it transitions from darkness to light. Camera in hand, I head to some of the city’s most enchanting spots to witness the sunrise—a daily spectacle that never gets old.
Each morning tells a different story. From the Mount Royal lookout, I’ve witnessed a sea of clouds tinted with deep purples. On foggy days, the city below vanishes into mist, leaving only the highest rooftops barely piercing through like islands in a misty ocean. The sky above takes on hues of lavender and violet, casting a surreal glow over everything. Many people might find disappointing when it's cloudy or foggy, but I like it. It’s a quiet, introspective beauty that feels almost secretive, as if the world is sharing a whispered moment with those willing to rise early enough to see it.
Over on Îles-des-Soeurs, the sunrises often set the sky on fire. Partially cloudy mornings transform as the sun climbs, transforming the clouds with fiery reds and oranges. The horizon looks as if it’s on fire, the intense colors reflecting off the St. Lawrence River and setting the Champlain Bridge aglow. The bridge becomes a silhouette against this dramatic backdrop, its familiar form taking on a newfound majesty. These mornings are intense and invigorating, filling me with a sense of awe. It's easy to understand why many birds and other animals are mostly active at this time, it's inspiring.
In the Old Port and the cobblestone streets around St. Paul Street and City Hall, I’ve witnessed the sun’s golden ascent on clear days. The sky transitions from deep blue to brilliant gold as the sun rises, its rays kissing the historic buildings and casting long, graceful shadows. The quiet streets rest in this warm light, and the reflections off the water add a shimmering quality to the scene. It’s a moment of pure serenity, where the past and present meld together under the glow of the new day. At the Old Port, you'll witness the silhouettes of fishermen aboard their boats, taking advantage of the city's quiet early hours to lure fish to their bait.
One of my favorite places to visit is the Parc Jean-Drapeau, where often early-morning athletes glide across the still waters in their rowing shells. The rhythmic splash of their paddles and the determined focus of the rowers embody the spirit of a new day—a blend of discipline, hope, and the pursuit of excellence. The soft morning light enhances the tranquility of the scene, making it feel like a living painting.
Waking up before the rest of the city isn’t just about capturing beautiful photographs; it’s about embracing the promise of a new beginning. Each sunrise fills me with energy and a renewed sense of purpose. There’s something profoundly inspiring about witnessing the world wake up—it’s a daily reminder that every day offers a fresh start, a chance to begin again with renewed hope.
The natural world has a way of grounding us, reminding us of the simple yet profound beauty that surrounds us. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook these moments. But by taking the time to experience the sunrise, I’ve found a deeper connection to both the city I love and to myself.
I encourage you to find your own special spot to watch the sun rise. Whether it’s a quiet corner in a park, a favorite street, or even your own backyard, take a moment to soak in the beauty of a new day dawning. You might be surprised at the inspiration and joy it brings to your life.
The video below (in Portuguese) shows one of our trips to the Mount-Royal lookout. Check it out!