How to get to Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is one of the most iconic places in France, with its medieval abbey perched on a small rocky island off the coast of Normandy. The beauty of the site and its millenary history make it a very popular tourist attraction, visited every year by millions of people from all over the world.

However, reaching Mont Saint Michel is not always easy: the island is located in an area subject to tides and can be surrounded by water during some hours of the day. In addition, there are several transportation options available to reach the site, each with its pros and cons.

In this article, we will guide you through the various transportation options to get to Mont Saint Michel and provide you with all the necessary information to organize your visit efficiently and economically.

How to get to Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a rocky island located off the northwestern coast of France. Although it can only be reached by sea, there are several options to get there.

By car

If you want to drive to Mont Saint Michel, the most convenient road is the A84 highway that connects Caen and Rennes. From here you can take exit 33 and follow the signs for Mont Saint Michel. There are also parking lots available at the entrance of the island.

By bus

You can reach Mont Saint Michel by bus from many French cities such as Rennes and Caen. The most popular bus companies include Keolis Armor and Flixbus. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure a seat.

By train

The nearest train station to Mont Saint Michel is Pontorson-Mont-Saint-Michel. From here you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to reach the island. However, the station does not have many direct connections with other French cities, so it may be necessary to make one or two stops before reaching your destination.

By bike

Many tourists choose to visit Mont Saint Michel by bike. There are numerous cycling routes that lead to the island, including the Véloscénie that connects Paris to Mont Saint Michel. It is recommended to rent a bike near the island to avoid having to transport it to your destination.

• A84 highway: the most convenient road to reach Mont Saint Michel by car
• Keolis Armor and Flixbus: the most popular bus companies operating in the area
• Pontorson-Mont-Saint-Michel: the nearest train station to the island
• Véloscénie: the cycling route that connects Paris to Mont Saint Michel

What to see in Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a rocky island located off the coast of Normandy and is one of the most visited places in France. Its medieval abbey and fortified city were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Here are some things to see during your visit to Mont Saint Michel:

The Mont Saint Michel Abbey

The Mont Saint Michel Abbey is the main point of interest on the island. Built between the 11th and 18th centuries, the abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding bay. Inside the abbey, you can admire the abbot's chambers, the Chapel of St. Martin, and the crypt.

The Fortified City

The fortified city of Mont Saint Michel was built around the abbey to protect it from enemy attacks. The narrow medieval streets, stone houses, and souvenir shops create an enchanted atmosphere that will make you feel like you've gone back in time.

The Bay of Mont Saint Michel

The Bay of Mont Saint Michel is famous for its extremely high tides, which can reach up to 15 meters difference between high and low tide. During your visit, be sure to take a walk on the bay and admire the breathtaking landscape.

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum of Mont Saint Michel is located inside the abbey and is dedicated to the history of the island. Here you can discover how the island became an important religious and cultural center over the centuries.

• Visit the medieval abbey
• Explore the fortified city
• Admire the Bay of Mont Saint Michel
• Discover the history of the island at the Historical Museum

In summary, Mont Saint Michel offers a unique combination of Gothic architecture, history, and natural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this magical place during your trip to France!

Where to stay in Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a very popular tourist destination, so there are many accommodation options available. However, keep in mind that the cost of accommodation may be a bit higher than other cities in Normandy.

Hotels on the Island

If you want to experience the full Mont Saint Michel experience, you might consider staying on the island itself. There are several hotels and B&Bs that offer rooms with views of the bay and the spectacular surrounding panorama.

• La Mère Poulard: one of the most famous hotels on the island, offers cozy rooms decorated in traditional French rustic style.
• Auberge Saint-Pierre: located at the foot of the abbey, this hotel has comfortable rooms and a restaurant with a view of the bay.
• Hôtel de la Digue: a small hotel located along the causeway leading to the island, offers clean and simple rooms with views of the bay.

Hotels outside the Island

If you prefer to avoid the crowds on the island, there are several accommodation options just a few kilometers from Mont Saint Michel. In addition, prices tend to be slightly lower than hotels on the island.

• Les Terrasses Poulard: located just 5 minutes by car from the island, this hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms with views of the bay.
• Hôtel Gabriel: a small hotel located in the village of Pontorson, about a 10-minute drive from Mont Saint Michel. It offers clean and cozy rooms at affordable prices.
• Le Relais Saint Michel: located right at the foot of the island, this hotel offers spacious and modern rooms with views of the bay. It is a bit more expensive than other hotels outside the island, but the location is unbeatable.

In any case, we recommend booking your accommodation in advance, especially if you visit Mont Saint Michel during the high tourist season. Also, keep in mind that many of the hotels on the island are not accessible by car, so you will have to park outside the island and take a shuttle or walk to your hotel.

What to eat in Mont Saint Michel

The traditional cuisine of Mont Saint Michel is mainly based on products from the sea and surrounding countryside. There are many restaurants on the island, but here are some dishes you shouldn't miss:

Omelette de la Mère Poulard

The Omelette de la Mère Poulard is a dish famous all over the world. The original recipe dates back to 1888 and is still prepared today with the same ingredients: fresh eggs, butter, and salt. The omelette is cooked over a wood fire and served hot and fluffy.

Moules-frites

Moules-frites (mussels and French fries) are another typical dish of the area. The mussels are cultivated in the waters around the island and are usually served with a cream or tomato sauce. The French fries are crispy and tasty.

Agneau de pré-salé

Agneau de pré-salé (salt meadow lamb) is a highly appreciated local specialty. The lambs are fed with salt grass from wetlands near the island, which gives the meat a particular flavor.

Tarte Tatin

The Tarte Tatin is an upside-down apple pie, originally from the nearby region of Normandy. The Mont Saint Michel version is particularly famous for its crispiness and intense flavor.

• Make sure to try at least one of these dishes during your visit to Mont Saint Michel.
• Remember that many restaurants on the island also offer vegetarian and gluten-free menus.

Conclusion

Mont Saint Michel is a magical place where history and nature blend into an unforgettable experience. But don't forget to taste the local flavors, which will make you fall even more in love with this French wonder. Take a look at the restaurant menus and choose the dishes that inspire you the most. Bon appétit!