There are many reasons to visit Mont Saint-Michel and the surrounding area and also as many different ways to fit such a visit into an itinerary of this historically rich region of France.
The medieval village of Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO world heritage site that sits on a rocky island at the mouth of the Couesnon River on Frances Atlantic coast.
This island rises steeply out of the tidal flats of the bay and is crowned by a gothic abbey, and the whole effect combines to make it one of the most recognisable images in the whole of France.
Getting to Mont Saint Michel
The easiest way to access Mont Saint-Michel is by car and is only a short drive off of the Caen-Rennes highway. It is also only about 30 miles from St Malo, the region’s busiest cross-channel seaport.
If you want to combine a visit with a stay in Paris, the drive is about four hours, but you also have a more comfortable train option via the nearby station at Rennes.
If you are planning to spend some time in Normandy, there is plenty to see, from historical castles to the Normandy landing grounds of World War Two and everything in between.
The Village of Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is essentially a fortified island, and between the impressive stone walls which mark its outer boundary and the gothic Abbey which towers above it, you will find yourself in a picturesque village. A single road, Grand-Rue, winds between the two medieval structures.
Here, you will find cool cafes and great restaurants and, of course, plenty of shops selling souvenirs. Take a walk around before you head to the Abbey itself, and maybe do some shopping. It’s a steep climb, so it is a great idea to pace yourself and maybe stop for something to eat or drink in one of the lovely food establishments along the street. The prices are not low, this is a very tourist-orientated location, but it is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the village.
It is also a good idea to try to get here early before the streets start filling up with visitors. And in the summer, the coolness of the early air might make the climb a bit more comfortable.
Mont Saint-Michel Abbey
The Abbey, which sits atop the island’s peak, is the reason people flock here, and it isn’t hard to see why. Buy a map of the village before doing the steep climb, as the clever tourist will use the walkways on the ramparts to avoid the crowds along the Grand Rue. It also affords the walker some great views.
The tour of the Abbey will take you through areas that were used for receiving pilgrims and various religious rooms such as the church and crypts. You will also be given access to the areas dedicated to the everyday life of the monks who lived here, such as the cloisters and refectory, and allow an insight into what their lives might have been like.
La Mere Poulard
Dating back to 1879, La Mere Poulard is a restaurant and hotel on the island, famous not only for great food but for its display wall of autographs collected from famous diners such as Ernest Hemmingway and Yves Saint Laurent.
The restaurant made its name for its speciality, Omelette de la mère Poulard, a giant omelette several inches thick, made in hand-hammered copper bowls and cooked over an open fire. Even if you don’t tuck into one of those, at least stay for a drink in the piano bar and some unrivalled views over the bay.
Stay For The Sunset
However you fill your day, there is one last phenomenon that you need to make sure you catch before you retire to bed.
At the end of the day, leave the village, find a quiet spot nearby and wait for the sunset. The crowds will have dispersed by then, and you will have the moment to yourself. It is a magical sight to behold.
Other Things to Do
Experiencing the myriad delights of Mont Saint-Michel is something that can be achieved in a day or two, so if you are planning a longer stay in the region, then you should combine it with some other locations and activities. And there is plenty to choose from.
Those who know their recent military history will know that the beaches nearby are the ones that were the site of the D-Day landings which saw Allied forces launch an advance that would eventual free Europe and end the war.
Gold Beach Company offer the chance to travel through Normandy in an authentic WW2 Jeep taking in some of the important sites of the early days of the campaign.
You will see and explore the Arromanches Mulberry Harbour, The Longues Sur Mer German gun battery, the best-preserved site of the Atlantic wall, and you can visit the cemetery at Ryes Bazenville and perhaps reflect on the enormous sacrifices that were made.
Walking Tours
A great way to understand the significance of Mont Saint-Michel in its landscape is to explore the region via an organised walking tour. A knowledgeable guide will help you understand the history of the place, and you will get to see a few places that you might miss if you are just making your way through the streets and countryside.
Where to Stay
Staying on the island of Mont Saint-Michel is a nice option, but it will be more expensive than the surrounding area, and as it is very much a tourist experience might lack some authenticity.
The smart tourist willing to drive 20 minutes or so deeper into Normandy will be rewarded with a wealth of charming guest houses, many located in gorgeous and historic old buildings and full of plenty of France charm and refinement.
If we have inspired you to take a trip, why not reach out to local travel agency, Now Lets Travel Swindon to see what deals they can offer on 01793 297147.
