• Le Mont Saint Michel

  • 1 Day
1 Day

An iconic rocky islet rising out of the sea in high tide, with a famous 10th century Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, located on the border between Normandy and Brittany.
The Islet is one of France’s most popular and breathtaking destination, 240 km west of Paris and 127 km southwest of Caen. Surrounded by large sandbanks, in low tide it rises 90 meters above sea level and it is connected to the mainland by a 1 km walkway. While visiting the islet stroll its winding cobbled allies with the partially timbered and stone houses, and window shop the small shops and boutiques. Visit the interesting Maritime Museum, and the Church of Saint-Pierre on Grande Rue on the way up to the Abbey, and enjoy the numerous restaurants and cafes.
Walk along the Abbey fortification walls around the islet to enjoy the sea and bay landscapes and walk on the sand around the 1 km islet perimeter, to enjoy its scenery all around. Be sure to check with the tourist’s center at the entrance if walking around the islet is possible at that time.
Make your way uphill to the Abbey via the steep and narrow alley and stairs, where you will learn its history and admire the Medieval architecture of the complex. The impressive Abbey of Mont-Saint Michel is built of two specific parts, the 10th century Romanesque abbey, and the 13th century “Wander” (Merveille) Gothic 2-3 stories buildings complex, including the Cloister, the Refractory, the Knights’ Room, the Guest Room and the Cellar. A 4 meters high statue of St. Michael is positioned at the top of the abbey church more than 150 meters above the shore.
Being one of the most popular destinations in France, to reach Le Mont Saint Michel, drive from Paris (240 km, 4 hours), take a train from Paris to Rennes or Caen, then a bus, car rental, or a local train close to the Islet, or take the TGV train to the Pontorson station (15 minutes from the Islet). Spend a 1/2 – 1 day in the Islet and consider staying overnight before continuing your travel.
As there are only few expensive hotels in the Islet, consider staying in the nearby villages of Beauvoir or Pontorson. From Le Mont Saint Michel travel west to visit the nearby charming port town of Saint Malo.

Read More
Mont Saint Michel, downtown and these multiple superb signs of Craftsmen, Normandy, France

Panorama of Mont Saint Michel abbey in a beautiful summer day, Normandy, France

French town located in Normandy. Main street with these beautiful houses, its church, and these old stones. Mont Saint Michel, Normandy, France