Mont Saint Michel is a Benedictine abbey that was built between the 11th and 16th centuries. The Gothic-style Abbey is built on a rocky island between Normandy and Brittan on an island. The island is located northwestern coast of France and has enjoyed a strategic location since ancient times. What makes Mont Saint Michel Abbey unique and special is its technical and artistic construction.
About 2.5 million visitors arrive on this iconic island, a UNESCO-listed site, every year to take a tour of Mont Saint Michel. As the journey to the Abbey from Paris is an exhaustive one, it is essential to plan your trip and arrange for Mont Saint Michel guided tour. It is a good idea to stay overnight as the Abbey is located along the border of the Brittany and Normandy regions that make for an interesting exploration. After all, you need to spend some time here to explore and understand over one thousand years of history.
What to do and see in Mont Saint Michel
Keep in mind that Mont Saint-Michel is home to about fifty monks and nuns who live within the Abbey. Take advantage of being at this picture-perfect spot of the beautiful Normandy countryside and explore the sights at your own pace.
Enjoy the views
Explore the fascinating Abbey that is steeped in history and located in one of the most beautiful sites in all of France. The guided tour will trace back the history and help you understand the monastic establishment that has been there since the 8th century. Walk around at leisure, take in the views, and enjoy the experience.
The Chapel, Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre
Visit the small chapel, Eglise Paroissiale Saint-Pierre and stop here to take a break. There is a sacred feel to the location which quieter than its surroundings. Soak in the exudes peace and tranquility of the place and spend some moment here.
Climb up the Mont Saint-Michel
Take the pathway that will lead you to the top of the Abbey. However, be wary as there are a good number of stairs you need to climb and the cobblestoned pathway is steep and narrow. However, the views from the top are refreshing and rewarding.
The Dam, Barrage sur le Couesnon
Barrage sur le Couesnon dam is impressive and extends for a short distance. The two-tier dam is made of concrete and metal, and the two layers are separated by some stair-chairs. You can plan a picnic here and enjoy fantastic views and great weather.
The chapel, La Chapelle-Saint-Aubert
La Chapelle-Saint-Aubert is another chapel and is smaller in size. Made of stone, you will find the chapel exuding serene and calm. Look at the collection of paintings inside and enjoy some great views of the island from inside. Do not miss out on paying attention to that gorgeous, tiny altar inside the chapel.
Explore the Channel
Experience the ever-changing tides of the Channel that rise and fall around the island. During high tide, the Mont Saint-Michel takes on a surreal look and creates a mirror reflection on the water that surrounds it. Low tides allow visitors to walk around the Abbey and get a different perspective of it altogether. Check with the Tourism Office about the mood of the tide and keep yourself at a safe distance.
The main street, La Grande Rue
Stroll along the main street of the island, La Grande Rue, which is lined by charming shops and adorable cafés. It seems like you are within a fairytale town. Wander around the quaint medieval streets and wear good shoes as those streets can be steep and it gets even more beautiful during the evening.
Stay for a while to listen to the hauntingly beautiful choir within the Abbey, especially if you are there during religious ceremonies. It is time to throw yourself back in history, even if it is for a little while. It would be difficult to shake off the magic and memories of Mont Saint Michel and the cultural pilgrimage experience.
