Millions of visitors flock to Mont Saint-Michel for its spiritual coastline, its exceptional architecture and natural setting, and its rich and eventful history.
As you admire the bay around you and the grandiose buildings, think of the thousands of years of history there: legions of pilgrims came to this rock to pray, imbuing it with a beautiful soul and creating beautiful architecture.
A rocky island in the bay bearing the same name, Mont Saint-Michel has been a sacred place since ancient times. The first oratory was built on this site in the year 708 and since then it has been extended and modified several times, coming to be known as Mont Saint-Michel Abbey.
When you arrive at the mount, admire the old Corps de Garde des Bourgeois, and rest for a moment: it is home to the tourist information office, which will give you the documents you need for your visit. Continue through the porte du Boulevard and the porte du Roy and admire the drawbridge. Then stroll through the streets lined with listed old houses, in which you'll find shops and restaurants.
Several paths lead to the abbey: you can take the Grand Degré, a set of steps at the end of the Grand Rue. You can also follow the chemin de ronde.
The Abbey consists of two parts, the abbey and the Merveille. The Gothic Merveille was where the monks lived, and you can explore it through several rooms: the Refectory, the Salle des Hôtes, the Chaplaincy and, in a separate building, the Knights' room, the cellar and the cloister, which contains a mediaeval garden. Among other things, you can admire the emblazoned keystones in the abbey.
Don't leave Mont Saint-Michel without walking around the chemin des remparts (ramparts walk), from which you can enjoy a fantastic view over the bay.
Due to its unique location, access to Mont-Saint-Michel is controlled. If you come by car, you will need to leave it in the car park. You can then reach the island via the sea wall and the walkway, on foot, on the "Passeur", a free shuttle, or by taking the "Maringote", a horse-drawn shuttle.
If you don't have a car, Expedia can arrange car rental in addition to accommodation. You can then make the most of your stay in the region to visit Saint-Malo, a fantastic walled port city. Many beaches also await along the coast.
