If the name “Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue” makes you think of a grand cathedral near Quebec City, you’re not alone. In reality, this town sits on the western tip of the Island of Montreal, home to a historic canal that opened in 1843 (Parks Canada) and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere just 20 minutes from downtown.
Founded: 1703 · Distance from Montreal: 20 minutes by car · Community type: On-island suburb of Montreal · Notable landmark: Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal National Historic Site · Seniority in West Island: Second oldest community
Quick snapshot
- On-island suburb of Montreal at the western tip of the Island of Montreal (Parks Canada)
- Founded in 1703 as a parish (Wikipedia)
- Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal National Historic Site opened in 1843 (Parks Canada)
- Second oldest community in Montreal’s West Island (Wikipedia)
- Exact population figures (not provided in official sources)
- Whether the town’s population has grown in recent years (no census data in inputs)
- Full list of local businesses and services (not consolidated in a single directory)
- Precise number of annual visitors to the canal (not published)
- 1703 — Parish founded, second oldest West Island community (Wikipedia)
- 1843 — Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal opens (Parks Canada)
- 20th century — Canal designated National Historic Site (Parks Canada)
- 2026 — Free lockage promotion announced for summer season (Parks Canada)
- Free lockage at the canal during 2026 summer promotion may attract more recreational boaters (Parks Canada)
- Continued redevelopment of the waterfront boardwalk and parks (Bonjour Québec)
- Potential growth in tourism given the town’s proximity to Montreal and natural waterway attractions (Parks Canada)
Five key facts, one pattern: Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue combines deep history with modern suburban convenience — the canal remains the centerpiece.
The table below captures the town’s core identity at a glance.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Municipal status | Town (ville) within Montreal Urban Community |
| Year founded | 1703 |
| Location | Western tip of Island of Montreal, Quebec, Canada |
| Notable waterway | Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal (National Historic Site) |
| Distance from Montreal city center | Approximately 20 minutes by car |
What is Saint Anne de Bellevue known for?
Historic canal and waterfront
The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal National Historic Site is the town’s most recognized feature. The canal connects Lake Saint-Louis and Lake des Deux-Montagnes (Parks Canada) and was opened in 1843 to move lumber and immigrants (Parks Canada). Today it is used almost entirely by recreational boaters, and the site offers a boardwalk, interpretation panels, and an observation tower (Bonjour Québec). The heritage lock is considered the busiest in Quebec (MTL.org).
Community events and summer program
- The town runs a lively summer program with festivals, outdoor markets, and cultural activities.
- Exo recommends visiting the Morgan Arboretum at 150 Rue Pins and the Ecomuseum (Exo).
- The waterfront boardwalk is a popular spot for walks and picnics (Bonjour Québec).
The pattern: the canal acts as a natural social anchor — the town’s identity revolves around water and heritage.
Proximity to Montreal
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is roughly 20 minutes by car from downtown Montreal (Wikipedia). Its location at the western tip of the Island of Montreal makes it a convenient commute for those working in the city but wanting a quieter setting. The Ville de Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue official site sums up the appeal: “Life in Sainte-Anne is the pleasure and calm of the countryside, 20 minutes from downtown Montreal.”
What is special about the Sainte-Anne de Beaupré Shrine?
Location and significance
The Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine is a major Catholic pilgrimage site located near Quebec City — roughly 250 km east of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. It is dedicated to Saint Anne, the patron saint of Quebec (Wikipedia). The confusion between the two names is common: Beaupré is a shrine, Bellevue is a suburb.
“The Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in North America.”
— Wikipedia
The implication: the two places share a patron saint but serve entirely different functions — one is a religious destination, the other a residential community with a historic canal.
Search “Sainte-Anne de Bellevue” and you may still get results for Beaupré. Readers looking for a hotel in Bellevue, WA, or pilgrimage advice near Quebec City need to double-check the region.
Is Saint Anne de Bellevue a city?
Municipal status
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is officially a town (ville in French) within the Montreal Urban Community (Wikipedia). It is an on-island suburb of Montreal, not a separate city. The term “city” is often used loosely in real estate listings, but legally it’s a town.
Comparison with other suburbs
It is the second oldest community in Montreal’s West Island, founded in 1703 (Wikipedia). Nearby suburbs like Beaconsfield and Pointe-Claire are younger but larger in population. Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue retains a historic village feel with a compact downtown along the waterfront.
Why this matters: for homebuyers or visitors, the town’s small scale means fewer high-rise developments and a greater emphasis on green spaces and water access.
What are the best hotels in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue?
Budget-friendly options
Several motels and inns operate within the town limits, with nightly rates reported from around $35 (TripAdvisor). These tend to be simple accommodations near the highway.
Nearby accommodations
For more comfort, hotels in neighboring suburbs such as Pointe-Claire or Ile-Perrot offer additional choices, including chains. The town itself has a few waterfront inns that appeal to visitors wanting lake views (TripAdvisor).
- Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham (Pointe-Claire, about 10 km east)
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites (Pointe-Claire)
- Quality Inn & Suites (Kirkland, about 8 km east)
The trade-off: budget options are basic, but paying a little more in a nearby suburb gets you reliable chain quality.
Why is Saint Anne so important?
Religious significance
Saint Anne is traditionally recognized as the mother of the Virgin Mary and grandmother of Jesus (Wikipedia). She is venerated as the patron saint of Quebec, and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine is a major center of devotion (Wikipedia).
Connection to Quebec
Her feast day, July 26, is celebrated across the province. The town of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue takes its name from her, reflecting the strong historical influence of the Catholic Church in early Quebec settlements (Wikipedia).
“Saint Anne is the patron saint of Quebec, and the shrine dedicated to her near Quebec City draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year.”
— Wikipedia
The pattern: the saint’s importance is cultural and religious, but her name adorns dozens of places across North America — creating the very confusion this article resolves.
Clarity: Confirmed vs. Unclear
Confirmed facts
- Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue is an on-island suburb of Montreal.
- It was founded in 1703.
- The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal is a National Historic Site.
- The town is approximately 20 minutes from downtown Montreal.
What’s unclear
- Exact population figures (not provided in official sources).
- Whether the town’s population has grown in recent years.
- Full list of local businesses and services.
- Precise number of annual visitors to the canal.
Quotes from the community
“Life in Sainte-Anne is the pleasure and calm of the countryside, 20 minutes from downtown Montreal.”
— Ville de Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue official site
“It is the second oldest community in Montreal’s West Island, having been founded as a parish in 1703.”
— Wikipedia
For anyone scanning real estate listings or planning a weekend trip, the distinction between Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and Beaupré (or Bellevue, Washington) matters. The town’s canal, historic village character, and proximity to Montreal make it a compelling option for those who want water access without the city noise. But the data gaps on population and business directories mean visitors still need to dig for specifics. For homebuyers in the West Island, the choice is clear: choose Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue for heritage and riverfront, or a neighboring suburb for more commercial amenities.
youtube.com, simpletravelandrecreation.blog, tripadvisor.com
For a deeper look into the town’s origins, Saint Anne de Bellevues history reveals how its maritime setting shaped the community.
Frequently asked questions
What restaurants are in Saint Anne de Bellevue?
Local restaurants include Le Bistro, La Cage Brasserie Sportive, and several fast-food options along Highway 20. A full list is available on municipal tourism pages.
What parks are available in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue?
Morgan Arboretum (150 Rue Pins) is a forested reserve with walking trails. The canal area has green spaces and picnic tables. The Ecomuseum is also nearby (Exo).
Is there a hospital in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue?
The town is near the Lakeshore General Hospital (in Pointe-Claire) and the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Hospital Centre (specialized care).
What schools are located in St Anne de Bellevue?
John Abbott College (CEGEP) is located in the town. Primary and secondary schools are part of the Lester B. Pearson School Board.
Where is the library in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue?
The Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Library is located at 30 Rue Sainte-Anne, near the town hall.
Are there houses for sale in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue?
Yes, properties range from historic homes to modern townhouses. Check local real estate listings for current inventory.
How far is Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue from Montreal?
Approximately 20 minutes by car (about 20 km) from downtown Montreal (Wikipedia).
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Megan Singh covers world affairs, culture and society for Canada Edition.