Mont Saint-Michel is an excellent choice for a trip away from Paris. As soon as I stepped off the shuttle bus and took my first glance of the island, I stood there in awe at the grandeur and size of the monastery itself.
According to legend, the archangel Michael appeared in 708 AD to the bishop of Avranches and instructed him to build a church on this rocky tidal island just off the Norman coast of France. For centuries, the abbey has been one of the most frequented destination by religious pilgrims. The past few years saw approximately 2.5 million tourists visit this island every year and with only 50 permanent residents this island relies much on the tourism.
As we continued to ascend we noticed the crowd starting to thin out. The climb up to the abbey was excruciating and definitely not for the faint hearted. When we reached the top, the horizon widens and the views were incredibly amazing. The climb was well worth the effort.
According to legend, the archangel Michael appeared in 708 AD to the bishop of Avranches and instructed him to build a church on this rocky tidal island just off the Norman coast of France. For centuries, the abbey has been one of the most frequented destination by religious pilgrims. The past few years saw approximately 2.5 million tourists visit this island every year and with only 50 permanent residents this island relies much on the tourism.
As we continued to ascend we noticed the crowd starting to thin out. The climb up to the abbey was excruciating and definitely not for the faint hearted. When we reached the top, the horizon widens and the views were incredibly amazing. The climb was well worth the effort.
My tip: Avoid going on the weekends as the place will be packed with tourists.
An overnight stay in Rennes is one of the best ways to get to Mont Saint-Michel. The hotel we stayed in was only a few minutes walk to the train and bus station.
We had our breakfast at this cafe near our hotel.
Breakfast options.
It was cold and windy on the day we visited.
La Mere Poulard, famous for its ridiculously expensive omelettes.
Preparing the omelettes.
Navigating through the narrow alley ways.
During the Middle Ages, pilgrims had to walk barefoot on this dangerous path to reach the island on sand, water and mud during low tide. Today, you can simply enjoy a walk across the bay of Mont Saint-Michel on "foot" accompanied by licensed guides. Just don't get caught in the quicksand.
Let the magic of the island seduce you and let its charm take you back to the Middle Ages.
Many
restaurants were full and we only had less than an
hour to grab some lunch before our bus arrived. We found this casual spot that serves sandwiches and freshly cooked
oh-so-delicious crepes.
Hmmm... The scent of the crepe filled my nose leaving me very eager to try it.
You'll find creperies line the streets leading to the abbey.
Set lunch: Sandwich, Dessert and Drink
Crepes are extras.
Crepes are extras.
Crepe with Caramel Sauce
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