A semi-permanent circuit on Île Notre-Dame in the St. Lawrence River. Named after the legendary Canadian driver, it features the infamous Wall of Champions at the final chicane that has caught out many greats.
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a permanent racing circuit, located in Montreal, Quebec. Drivers cover 4.361 km (2.71 miles) and 14 corners each lap, run clockwise. Among its named corners are L'Épingle and Wall of Champions.
The circuit opened in 1978 and holds FIA Grade 1 licensing. It appears on the Formula 1 calendar. Around 100,000 spectators can attend.
The circuit runs on Île Notre-Dame, an artificial island built in the St Lawrence for Expo 67. When Montreal took over Canada's Grand Prix in 1978 the layout was drawn using the roads already there, which is why it has the shape it does — long straights joined by tight chicanes, hemmed in by water on both sides.
The first race could hardly have gone better for the host nation. Gilles Villeneuve won it in front of a crowd that included Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. It was called the Île Notre-Dame Circuit until 1982, when Villeneuve was killed in qualifying at Zolder and Montreal renamed the track after him. The wall on the exit of the final chicane carries a painted greeting to departing drivers and has claimed enough of them to be known as the Wall of Champions.
6 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
BOUTIQUE · $$ · 7.6 km from circuit
Old Montreal boutique with a rooftop terrace overlooking the port, close to the Circuit island. The drive to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve takes about 20 minutes (4.7 miles). Facilities include spa and restaurant.
Visit websiteHOTEL · 7.6 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 7.7 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 7.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 8.0 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · $$$ · 9.0 km from circuit
Montreal's grand dame hotel on the Golden Square Mile, the ultimate Canadian Grand Prix luxury stay. The drive to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve takes about 22 minutes (5.6 miles). Facilities include spa, pool, and garden.
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) — approximately 26 km from the circuit
Jean-Drapeau station on the Yellow Line is a five-minute walk from the circuit and one stop from Berri-UQAM downtown, about three minutes. The 777 bus also runs from the metro to the track. Public transport is comfortably the easiest way in, as Ile Notre-Dame has very limited parking.
Hotels near Circuit Gilles Villeneuve typically sell out 3-6 months before major race weekends, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during race weekends, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Montreal centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Circuit Gilles Villeneuve offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Montreal, Quebec. The circuit holds up to 100,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is located in Montreal, Quebec. The nearest airport (YUL) is approximately 26 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 6 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $200-500 per night during major race weekends at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, compared to $80-180 during off-peak periods. Booking 3-6 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 3-6 months before the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.