What De La Savane Is
De La Savane is in Montreal’s Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough, at the intersection of the city’s industrial past and its urban renewal plans. The district lies in central-west Montreal, bordered by Autoroute 40 (the Metropolitan Expressway) and Autoroute Décarie. Its strategic position at the crossroads of major expressways and metro lines has made it an important part of Montreal’s transit and logistical network since the early 20th century.
Once characterized by warehouses and factories, the area is now a mix of historic sites, transit infrastructure, industrial buildings, multicultural communities, and redevelopment projects. Its landmarks include the Baron de Hirsch Cemetery, De La Savane Metro Station, and the former Hippodrome de Montréal (Blue Bonnets) site. Ongoing plans for sustainable development and social inclusion are also shaping the district. Further information is available from the Montreal Urban Plan, Société de transport de Montréal (STM), and Montreal Heritage Sites.
History and Redevelopment
Early geography and industrialization
De La Savane’s flat terrain and proximity to transit routes supported early development as an industrial and service corridor (Montreal Urban Plan). Throughout the 20th century, low-rise industrial buildings helped separate residential zones from busy highways.
The Baron de Hirsch Cemetery was established in 1905. It remains one of Canada’s largest Jewish burial grounds, with more than 55,000 interments and notable Holocaust memorials, and reflects the area’s multicultural heritage (Baron de Hirsch Cemetery Wikipedia).
Postwar development and the metro station
Construction of Autoroute 40 in the 1960s and expansions to the Décarie Expressway strengthened De La Savane’s role as a transit and industrial hub, while limiting residential growth. Surrounding neighborhoods developed into diverse communities, while De La Savane remained less densely populated but strategically important for its connectivity.
De La Savane Metro Station opened in 1984. Its name comes from Rue de la Savane and recalls the area’s rural past. The station is near the Town of Mount Royal border, in a district once marked by open fields and marshland.
Recent urban planning and redevelopment
Montreal’s Urban Plan prioritizes transforming De La Savane into a sustainable, inclusive neighborhood. The Namur-Hippodrome redevelopment aims to convert former industrial lands into ecological, carbon-neutral residential spaces (Montreal Urban Plan).
Key projects include:
- Jardins De La Savane Project Redevelopment of former industrial sites near Namur Metro into a 12-story residential tower and a 7-story social housing building, promoting higher-density, transit-oriented living (IMTL).
- Affordable and social housing Developments include an affordable housing building at 5460 avenue Connaught and an 18-story social housing tower on chemin de la Côte-Saint-Luc (Montreal Urban Plan).
- Écoquartier Namur-Hippodrome Shaped by public consultations, this eco-neighborhood initiative prioritizes sustainability, green spaces, and community resilience (Montreal Urban Plan).
Urban Plan amendments support residential and mixed-use projects. Updated zoning and demolition bylaws are intended to support the integration of new developments and heritage preservation (Montreal Urban Plan).
What to See
De La Savane Metro Station
The station’s raw concrete (béton brut) and angular forms are characteristic of Brutalist architecture. It was designed by Guy de Varennes and Almas Mathieu. A skylight illuminates “Calcite,” a stainless steel sculpture by Maurice Lemieux, creating effects of light and shadow (STM Info).
The station is underground, with two side platforms and a single entrance at 8261 Boulevard Décarie. Despite its architectural interest, it is among the least used stations in the network, owing to its commercial surroundings. The adjacent Royalmount development is expected to increase traffic.
Baron de Hirsch Cemetery
The cemetery is a historic site and one of Canada’s largest Jewish burial grounds. It has more than 55,000 interments and notable Holocaust memorials. Visitors can also find paved paths and accessible facilities.
Hippodrome de Montréal (Blue Bonnets)
Once Montreal’s premier horse racing venue, the Hippodrome de Montréal was a focal point for social events and sporting history. Racing ceased in the late 1990s, and the site is now central to urban revitalization efforts (Montreal Heritage Sites).
The changing urban landscape
Visitors encounter historic industrial buildings, new eco-friendly residential towers, multicultural communities, and a growing range of public amenities. The district offers insight into Montreal’s evolving urban identity and serves as a starting point for exploring the city’s west end.
Parc de la Savane, adjacent to the metro station, is a nearby green space (Montreal Parc de la Savane).
Practical Visiting Information
Getting there and transit connections
- Metro De La Savane and Namur stations are on the Orange Line. De La Savane is between Namur and Du Collège stations and offers direct access downtown.
- Bus Multiple STM routes serve the area. De La Savane station connects with routes 17, 100, and 460, as well as several night buses. The nearby stop is Kindersley / De La Savane.
- Car The district is accessible from Autoroute 40 and Décarie, with nearby parking. De La Savane Metro Station has no dedicated car parking.
- Bicycles The station has 42 outdoor bike racks and a BIXI bike-sharing station. A pedestrian bridge to Royalmount was under construction as of 2023.
Metro hours, fares, and accessibility
- Operating hours The first train toward Montmorency is at 5:32 AM; the last is at 12:32 AM (1:02 AM Saturdays). The last train to Côte-Vertu is at 1:18 AM (1:48 AM Saturdays).
- Frequency Trains run every 3–12 minutes, depending on the time of day.
- Ticketing Single-ride tickets, day passes, and OPUS cards can be purchased at station vending machines or online (STM Fares).
- Accessibility As of June 2025, the station is not fully accessible and has no elevators or escalators.
Visiting the Baron de Hirsch Cemetery
- Hours Open during daylight hours; check ahead for specifics.
- Admission Free.
- Tours Occasional guided tours are offered through local heritage groups.
Visiting the Hippodrome site
- Hours 9:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
- Guided tours Weekends, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.
- Admission Free for self-guided visits. Guided tours cost $10/adult and $5/seniors/students; children under 12 enter free.
- Booking Reserve tours via the Montréal Heritage Sites website.
- Accessibility The site is wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and designated parking.
- Guided tours and events Tours highlight the Hippodrome’s architecture, cultural impact, and notable events. Seasonal programs and exhibitions celebrate local heritage; check the official website for updates.
Tips
- The metro station has ticket machines, bike parking, and a BIXI station. Retail options are available nearby on Boulevard Décarie.
- STM security monitors the station. It is generally safe, though quieter during off-peak hours.
- The Royalmount pedestrian bridge is intended to improve access to new commercial and entertainment venues.
- Hippodrome photography is welcome except in restricted areas; the best lighting is during golden hour.
- For guided audio tours, the Audiala app is suggested. Social media and related articles provide updates on Montreal’s evolving cityscape.
Nearby Places
- Blue Bonnets (Hippodrome) site The former racetrack is being redeveloped.
- Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood Offers diverse dining and shopping.
- Parc de la Savane Green space beside the metro station (Montreal Parc de la Savane).
- Downtown Montréal Museums, shopping, and dining are a short metro ride away.
- Local cafés and boutiques Found in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I visit the Baron de Hirsch Cemetery?
A: Yes, during daylight hours. Respectful behavior is expected.
Q: Are guided tours available for the cemetery or the district?
A: Occasionally, via local heritage organizations.
Q: How do I get to De La Savane by public transit?
A: Take the Orange Line metro to De La Savane or Namur, or use one of the multiple STM bus routes.
Q: Are there entrance fees for redevelopment sites or new buildings?
A: Redevelopment sites are private; parks and public spaces are open to all.
Q: Is De La Savane Metro Station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: As of June 2025, the station lacks full accessibility.
Q: Are there parking options at De La Savane Metro Station?
A: There is no dedicated car parking, but the station has ample bike parking and bike-sharing.
Q: Can I host private events at the Hippodrome site?
A: Yes; contact the city’s heritage office for rental information.
