LE MONT-SAINT-MICHEL
That’s when this exceptional monument reveals its quieter side, alongside its alleyways and passages, its ramparts and roofs. You can take in the panoramic view of the bay and watch as one of the highest tides in Europe transforms the monument into an island surrounded by the sea.
At the top of the mount, the abbey is an architectural masterpiece, one of the greatest centres of medieval pilgrimage, and a challenge to attacks by men, the weather, and the elements.
Spending the night on the mount is a timeless experience, and one of the highlights of this journey.
The polders offer remarkable views of a lesser-known side of the Mont.
When the sun goes down, it’s as if time has stopped. Visit the abbey at night! Concerts and cultural events all summer long.
FYI
View points
- 1st: Chapelle Saint-Anne, 4 rue de la Mairie – Saint Broladre.
- 2nd: Rue des 4 Solines, follow it straight ahead until the intersection.
- 3rd: After the “Ferme Neuve” (“new farm”): Go to the Barrage du Couesson (dam) and reach Mont-Saint-Michel by shuttle in 45 minutes.
Where to eat
- Ferme Saint-Michel (extramuros). At the entrance to La Caserne site. Former polder farm. Quiet, away from the crowd. Private parking close to the shuttle buses. Salt meadow lamb, local products. La Caserne – Route du Mont Saint-Michel – 50170 le Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Restaurant le Pré Salé (extramuros). Large restaurant, Breton and Norman regional specialities. Shuttle bus stop just opposite. Route du Mont-Saint-Michel – BP8 – 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Auberge de la Mère Poulard (intramuros). In Annette Poulard’s historic restaurant. Magnificent setting. Omelette de la Mère Poulard, recipe unchanged – Grande Rue – BP 18 – 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
Have a drink
- Les Terrasses Mère Poulard. Entry point to the Mont, opposite the Auberge. Fast food and takeaway.
Where to sleep
- Hotel Gabriel (extramuros). Close to the shuttle bus and the dam. Modern and colourful decoration. Spacious rooms for 3-4-5 people. La Caserne – Route du Mont-Saint-Michel – BP8 – 50170 le Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Auberge Saint Pierre (intramuros). 15th century building. Lots of charm and character. Grande Rue – BP 16 – 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Chambre d’hôtes la Tête Noire (intramuros). 14th century building on the rampart with a view over the bay. Listed as a Historic Monument. Grande Rue – 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
