Description: Le Mont St-Michel, a UNESCO world heritage site and the most visited attraction in France, rises like a dream off the NE coast of Brittany and is joined by a bridge to the mainland. On top of the 80m high island is a fascinating monastery.

Until recently Mont St Michel was joined to the mainland by causeway, but this has been removed so that the waters can flow freely around the island, and replaced with a bridge that uses small shuttles to ferry people over to the island.

Their is a fully interactive visitor centre on the mainland with extensive parking.  Then it is a short walk to the island or you can pay to go on one of the horse drawn carriages or the regular bus service that crosses the causeway to the island.

Location: To reach Le Mont St-Michel, follow the D976 north from Pontorson in NE Brittany.

Website: http://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/index.htm

Our recommendations: Get there very early or arrive later in the day as the crowds die down. If you want to avoid the cost of the monastery, go up the steps on the right just after the drawbridge for the walk along the Chemin des Ramparts. Don’t venture onto the sands around the island at low tide – the incoming tide moves at an incredible pace in this area and can spell serious danger!

For the children: There is a maze of narrow streets lined by tourist shops leading to the monastery, which spoils the place in a way, but adds to the fun for children. Keep them close to you – the crowds are immense! They will enjoy exploring the monastery.

 

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to Normandy: