Montreal is an island, and in the summer, it’s dry, muggy, and dusty—and it’s hot, hot, hot. We don’t complain (ever), because winter was so long. But we’re not just going to sit around in our apartments sweltering without saying a word.
Of course, we can always head out for the day or the weekend and go for a dip in a lake. We can always flirt with the people who live in those big, ugly high-rises in Griffintown that have air conditioning and a pool… Heat waves are becoming more frequent and longer-lasting, even in Montreal, and to take care of ourselves, we’re going to have to stock up on ways to stay cool.
To take a dip this summer, La Piscinette brings together two of Montrealers’ favorite things: a slightly eco-friendly concept and a pop-up vibe. We don’t usually talk about truly secret spots, but in this case, no one wants to give out the address.
THE LITTLE POOL
La Piscinette, as its name suggests, is a tiny pool (which can hold about twenty swimmers at a time, but no more) that was built inside a former shipping container.
But the place is more like a mini 1970s beach club; there’s a small sandy beach, a volleyball court, a wooden structure, and lounge chairs. And, of course, the (tiny) pool where you can swim laps, dip your toes, and chat in the cool air.
Plus, the Piscinette is filled with saltwater. No chlorine to ruin our hair, just salt for beach waves in the city—no kids with red eyes and no rashes after swimming. For that reason alone, we want to go take a dip there.
You can also have a picnic there—there are Adirondack chairs, hammocks, and lounge chairs. And since it’s kind of like summer vacation, there’s always music at La Piscinette.
PRACTICAL INFO
Where? Jos-Montferrand Park, at 2560 De Maisonneuve Boulevard East
When? June 20 to September 1, 2026
- Monday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Wednesday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Friday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Sunday / 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
What? It’s free— for more information, click here
