SO WORTH IT!
Was in Montreal for a 5 day visit, The first day, my friend showed me around a lot of places but we didnt walk UP the Mont-Royal.
I went back a couple days later and hiked up on my own! I went via Station Mont Royal - stopping off at the cute boutiques/coffee shops along Avenue du Mont Royal. That area is definitely a lot more rustic and interesting compared to downtown.
It was soooo beautiful - very easy road/track to walk up - with more challenging vertical climbs if you wish to do so - and as I was there in Autumn, the beautiful colors of the leaves accompanied you the whole way, until you get to the top and see the stunning view overlooking Montreal!
Things are clearly signposted and its worth checking out the Chateaux - where the old groundskeeper used to live - and in the basement (where the free toilets are!) is an interesting display of the history etc of the area.
Didn't have any food at the Chateaux, but there were plenty of people eating and enjoying a hot drink.
The walk down via the steps back into downtown is a nice way to take a look through McGill University too.
Definitely a romantic spot - I was feeling a bit lonely and wish I'd at least had a dog to walk or something! But experiencing nature with classical jazz in my ear was pretty nice too.