Dorval, QC

Planes skim low above the rooftops in Dorval, where the hum of Montréal-Trudeau Airport fades into the background of lakeside parks, corner bakeries, and cozy streets that instantly make residents feel at home. Nestled along the western edge of Montréal Island, this compact city offers coastal calm with convenient access to the big city. Locals bike or stroll along the shoreline of Lake Saint-Louis, while others hop on the train for a direct ride to Montreal.

A mix of apartment communities and homes stretch across Dorval, from low-rise rentals on quiet streets to mid-rise buildings close to the Les Jardins Dorval shopping mall. The city is stitched together by a handful of small but distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own local rhythm. Residents enjoy leafy streets, walkable blocks, and no shortage of green space. Pine Beach Park draws regulars with its waterfront views, while community events in local parks bring neighbours together. The north part largely serves as the home to the airport, which takes up a majority of the city. Next to the airport is a wide belt of warehouses, logistic centers, and industrial parks that give Dorval a commercial edge.

The area’s history goes deeper than most realize — Dorval was originally founded as a mission village in 1665, making it one of the oldest in the region. Events bring the community together as each summer, residents gather for Fête Nationale, with live music, family games, and fireworks lighting up the sky by the water. Whether you're watching planes take off from your balcony or launching a kayak from the shoreline, Dorval offers it all not far from Montreal.