48 Hours in Mont Saint Michel, France: A Information

Mont Saint Michel is a small tidal island situated simply off the coast of Normandy in France about an hour from each Rennes and Saint Malo and two hours from Honfleur. Now some of the iconic landmarks in France, it has been a location of nice significance for hundreds of years as a pilgrimage website for Christians seeking to go to the Benedictine Abbey and at this time, hundreds of thousands of individuals are nonetheless visiting.

The Historical past of Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint-Michel has a wealthy and interesting historical past that dates again to prehistoric occasions,  and was later used as a fortress by the Romans. Within the sixth century, in keeping with legend, the island was first visited by the Archangel Michael, who appeared to the Bishop of Avranches and instructed him to construct a church on the island. By the eighth century, a small group of monks established a monastery on the island, though the Abbey that you just see at this time was not accomplished till the tenth century when it formally grew to become a Benedictine Abbey and some of the essential non secular websites in Europe.

Quick-forward to the 1300-1400’s in the course of the Hundred Years’ Struggle between France and England when it served as a strategic stronghold and army fortress for the French, whereas in the course of the French Revolution, the abbey was as soon as once more closed and used as a jail.

After the struggle, Mont Saint Michel continued to be a spot of pilgrimage and workshop, nevertheless it was additionally throughout this time that it grew to become a preferred vacationer vacation spot. The Romanesque-Gothic abbey was restored and renovated within the nineteenth century, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Website and some of the visited points of interest in France. 

It has additionally been mentioned that Mont Saint Michel was the inspiration for each the fortress within the animated film, Tangled, and Minas Tirith, the capital metropolis of Gondor in Lord of the Rings.

get to Mont Saint Michel

If you’re travelling by highway, Saint Michel is clearly signposted once you attain the A84. The island itself is car-free however there’s a automobile park with 4,000 areas shut by on the mainland. Simply be aware that whereas this feels like so much, with round 2.5 million guests every year, these spots refill quick.

From the automobile park you may both take the free shuttle bus from simply exterior the vacationer data centre, which runs all through the day from 7:30 am – midnight, or you may stroll throughout the walkway which is able to take round 20-40 minutes. 

The shuttle bus working throughout to Mont Saint Michel

If you’re travelling by practice, head for Pontorson station which is round 9km away the place you may choose up a shuttle bus that drops you off round 300m from Mont Saint Michel.

The place to remain close to Mont Saint Michel

If you’re really seeking to keep on Mont Saint Michel, contemplate staying on the Auberge Saint Pierre. This charming little resort is wealthy in historical past, with uncovered beams, picket flooring and conventional lead-glass home windows, plus a good looking courtyard terrace to get pleasure from drinks or breakfast. It will be the perfect place to spend an evening or two.

Away from the island, however shut sufficient to both stroll or cycle in, Gites Bellevue, presents self-catering lodging within the coronary heart of the countryside. Due to this fact, if you’re seeking to spend longer within the space this might be the right selection for a calming household vacation.

Lastly, for these touring France of their campervans or motorhomes and on the lookout for an aire to park up at for a couple of days, Aire de Tenting Automotive Beauvoir simply down the highway from Mont Saint Michel, is spacious, has each hardstanding and grass pitches, electrical hook up is accessible, water and a chemical waste disposal. 

48 hours in Mont Saint Michel Itinerary

As soon as on the island, Mont Saint Michel is straightforward to navigate by foot, though there are some steep hills and loads of steps to climb, which is one thing you could want to contemplate forward of time.

Day 1 in Mont Saint Michel

The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel

After getting picked up a pastry at one of many native bakeries, head to the abbey, a spectacular medieval architectural masterpiece, has change into some of the widespread vacationer points of interest in France, with hundreds of thousands of holiday makers every year. The abbey has a wealthy historical past relationship again to the eighth century and Aubert, Bishop of Avranches and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage website since 1979.

The unique church was constructed within the Romanesque model and was devoted to Saint Michael the Archangel, and patron saint of warriors. Over time, the church has expanded and has been reworked into the abbey you see at this time, the place monks and nuns nonetheless stay and work.

Constructed on a rocky island, its design takes benefit of the pure panorama and with the enlargement got here a fusion of various kinds so the abbey now has each Romanesque and Gothic options with spires rising up 155 metres above sea stage.  A incredible feat, on condition that the constructing supplies would have needed to cross the Bay of Saint-Michel.

To achieve the abbey, you will have to stroll via the village and climb round 200m plus round 350 steps up the Grand Staircase to achieve the doorway of the abbey.

The church is the centrepiece of the abbey and is a shocking instance of Gothic structure. The nave is flanked by rows of columns and has a ribbed vaulted ceiling and a good looking rose window. The choir is probably the most ornate a part of the church, with elaborate carvings and statues. 

The cloister is a tranquil courtyard surrounded by arcades and was as soon as the centre of monastic life on the island the place monks would ponder and meditate whereas the refectory has a barrel-vaulted ceiling and is adorned with murals depicting scenes from the Bible.

It’s nonetheless an essential non secular website at this time, with many individuals making the pilgrimage to the island to wish to Saint Michael and has additionally impressed many artists and writers over the centuries, making it the topic of many work, poems and novels.

The Ramparts

The traditional partitions, constructed over centuries, have been an integral a part of the abbey’s protection. Constructed within the thirteenth and 14th centuries, these fortifications had been added to guard the village from potential invaders and had been bolstered with towers and gates. 

The constructing of the ramparts, utilizing native granite, passed off in phases, with every new addition including to the Island’s defensive capabilities and face up to heavy artillery fireplace. The early sections had been constructed utilizing the dry-stone method, a way widespread in the course of the Roman period, whereas the later sections of the ramparts had been constructed utilizing a mixture of dry-stone and mortar. They don’t seem to be only a beautiful instance of medieval structure, but additionally an emblem of the island’s wealthy historical past and cultural heritage. 

To get to the ramparts, enter the medieval village and cross the drawbridge. From right here you may both flip proper to the Chemin des Remparts, or proceed strolling via the outer partitions to  the Porte du Roy.

Wandering the rampart pathway at this time, offers you not solely a way of the unbelievable workmanship concerned in constructing such a construction but additionally presents an incredible view throughout the island, out to sea and the encompassing countryside. You too can stroll onto the commentary deck of the Tour du Nord (North Tower), the thirteenth century watchtower and watch the tide are available or recede out of the Bay.

Lunch at an establishment on the island

Mont Saint Michel is legendary for its fluffy omelettes, maybe as a result of probably the most well-known restaurant on the island, La Mère Poulard, has been providing them as a speciality since 1888. The omelets are cooked on an open fireplace and served with a crispy exterior and a delicate creamy centre.

The Gabriel Tower

The Gabriel Tower together with the marina are two of probably the most iconic landmarks on the island. Located on the western facet of the island, it’s from right here that you’ll get probably the most beautiful views of the encompassing bay and close by shoreline.

The Gabriel Tower is a tall, cylindrical tower, constructed within the seventeenth century as a part of the island’s defences and was named after the archangel Gabriel. Since that point it has change into an emblem of Mont Saint Michel and is now a preferred spot for guests to take photographs.

Just under the tower is the marina, a bustling space that’s residence to a spread of eating places, cafes and outlets and can also be the departure level for boats taking individuals on guided excursions of the bay. One spotlight right here is the meals market that takes place each morning and presents a spread of recent seafood, native cheeses and different regional specialities. 

The Grand Rue

The primary and solely avenue, often known as the Grand Rue, is an enthralling and historic cobbled thoroughfare that runs via the center of the island. This slender cobblestone avenue is lined with medieval buildings and outlets.

Relationship again to the Center Ages, the road was initially constructed to offer a route for pilgrims to achieve the abbey. Nevertheless, over time the road has change into a hub of business exercise as retailers arrange outlets and inns to cater for the wants of the pilgrims. Over time, the buildings grew to become extra elaborate and ornate, mixing kinds to mirror the lengthy and different historical past of the island. Some of the hanging options entails trying upwards in the direction of the corbels, that are ornamental stone brackets that assist the higher flooring of the buildings. These corbels are sometimes intricately carved, including to the distinctive appeal of the road. As you wander alongside additionally, you will discover a number of historic fountains, which had been used for each ingesting and washing throughout medieval occasions.

At this time, the Grand Rue is lined with quite a lot of outlets, eating places and cafes in addition to a number of museums and galleries.

Whereas wandering the Grand Rue additionally look out for Venelle du Guet, often known as the ‘Ruelle des cocus’ of ‘Cuckold’s Alley’. That is the smallest avenue on the island and it’s so slender that you’ll battle to stroll subsequent to somebody, as an alternative having to discover in single file. To seek out this little passageway, flip left in entrance of the Lodge La Croix Blanche.

Dinner away from the hustle and bustle of the island

The grass-fed salt-marsh lamb from the encompassing salt flats is a real native delicacy. The lamb is raised on a singular weight loss program of samphire and sea aster, giving it a particular flavour. Probably the greatest locations to do that dish is at La Ferme Saint Michel the place it’s often served roasted with seasonal greens and potatoes.

Day 2 in Mont Saint Michel

St. Peter’s Church

Begin day two by visiting St. Peter’s Church (Eglise Saint Pierre), a good looking church located on a rocky outcrop on the sting of Mont Saint Michel, that overlooks the ocean. This church has a wealthy historical past relationship again to the eleventh century, making it one of many oldest constructions on the island. The church was constructed within the Romanesque model and served as a spot of worship for the monks who lived on the island. Not solely was this church an essential place of worship, it additionally served as a spot of refuge for the inhabitants of the island throughout occasions of battle and hazard.

The church includes a easy, but elegant design, with thick partitions, rounded arches and a sturdy bell tower. Whereas the inside of the church is embellished with lovely frescoes and murals, many relationship again to the medieval interval.

The Historical past Museum

Tucked down a slender avenue, behind the church, this museum homes 1000 years of historical past and covers the constructing of the abbey, the battles of the previous and knowledge on the Mont Saint Michel jail. There may be additionally an unlimited assortment of historical weapons, torture devices, the iron cage of Louis XI and lots of work and sculptures.

The Museum of the Sea and Ecology

This museum is a wonderful selection for anybody within the ocean and the setting, the place you may be taught extra in regards to the various marine ecosystem of the waters surrounding Mont Saint Michel.

Dwelling to quite a lot of displays and shows that showcase the marine lifetime of the bay and the native fishermen who rely upon it. One of many highlights is the big aquarium that homes a spread of marine creatures, from vibrant fish to large crabs. You too can be taught in regards to the distinctive ecology on Mont Saint Michel, together with how the tides have an effect on this ecosystem, in addition to the various kinds of vegetation and animals that may be discovered on the island.

Guests can even wander the part devoted to the historical past of fishing within the space, seeing examples of conventional fishing boats, instruments and nets whereas studying in regards to the totally different fishing strategies which were used over the centuries. There may be even a piece on native delicacies, the place you may be taught extra in regards to the various kinds of seafood widespread within the area.

A light-weight lunch

Galettes are a savoury crepe and a staple of the area. They’re sometimes full of cheese, ham, eggs and greens and are an important possibility for a fast, low-cost lunch. You could find a number of totally different galette outlets round Mont Saint Michel and the encompassing space. Probably the greatest on the island is La Sirène Lochet, which serves each galettes and candy crepes.

The Logis Tiphaine Museum

The Logis Tiphaine Museum was as soon as the historic residence of the Knight of Guesclin, and provides an perception into the lifetime of one in every of France’s most well-known knights. As 14th century nobleman, Bertrand du Guesclin, served as a army commander in the course of the Hundred Years’ Struggle, and his residence, which he shared along with his spouse, Tiphaine de Raguenel, a well-known astrologer who used the celebs to predict the way forward for the world, is a testomony to their legacy.

The residence is situated on the western facet of the island and is definitely recognisable with its imposing stone partitions and towers. You possibly can discover the inside of the residence, which has been restored to its former glory. 

One of many highlights is the good corridor, which was used for feasts and gatherings however is now embellished with intricate tapestries and options a big fire. One other is the armoury, residence to a set of medieval weapons, together with swords, shields and fits of armour. You too can go to the bridal suite full with a chastity belt relationship again to the Center Ages, the chapel and the small backyard that has lovely views out over the coast.

The Archeoscope

The Archescope is an immersive expertise that brings to life the wealthy historical past and legends of this well-known island. Positioned within the coronary heart of the village, the Archeoscope provides you the prospect to delve into the previous and be taught in regards to the historic occasions which have taken place at Mont Saint Michel over the centuries.

Housed inside a contemporary, purpose-built theatre, and utilizing a spread of multimedia applied sciences, the present, introduced in each French and English, and features a mixture of stay motion footage, animation and particular results,  lasts round 35 minutes and takes you on a journey via historical past, from its earliest days as a spot of worship to its function as a strategic army outpost in the course of the Hundred Years’ Struggle. There may be additionally a piece devoted to the legend of the Archangel Michael. 

Buy a neighborhood memento 

No journey to Mont Saint Michel is full with out attempting the well-known salted caramel. The caramel is made utilizing native sea salt which provides it a singular flavour and texture. The caramel is available in varied kinds together with as a candy and as a sauce for ice cream. Probably the greatest locations to choose up some souvenirs is simply off the island at Maison Pelerin.

A seafood dinner awaits

Being a coastal area, Mont Saint Michel has an abundance of recent seafood. Right here you may attempt mussels, scallops, oysters and different shellfish, all sourced regionally. Le Pré-Salé, whereas well-known for its lamb, can also be a preferred restaurant for these on the lookout for a seafood platter to get pleasure from. 

There are additionally a number of totally different eating places simply off the island that concentrate on seafood, so if you’re on the lookout for a less expensive place to eat, head in the direction of La Gréve for extra affordable priced menus.

Ultimate ideas on Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a singular and interesting vacation spot that’s steeped in historical past and tradition. The island’s beautiful structure and breathtaking views make it a must-see vacation spot for anybody visiting Northern France. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, an structure fanatic, or just on the lookout for a good looking place to go to, Mont Saint Michel is unquestionably value a visit.

Really helpful Excursions in Mont Saint Michel

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