Journey to the enchanting land of Mont Saint-Michel and it’s Situated on a rocky islet in the Normandy region of France, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime example of ancient architectural feats and craftsmanship that has now lasted centuries. A mountain silhouette of an abbey crown sits enthroned in medieval veneration, surrounded by winding, narrow streets and medieval houses will take you back in history.
Background and Importance of Mont Saint-Michel
The history of Mont Saint-Michel is varied and exciting, stretching back over one thousand years. Built first as a military bastion in the 8th century, the site soon became one of pilgrimage of religious and intellectual activity. From the 10th century the abbey was enlarged with some of the construction styles as Romanesque to Gothic.
Mont Saint-Michel has seen plenty of historical ups and downs in its day, as the island has changed hands and allegiances over the centuries. It was a base during the Hundred Years’ War, and became a prison in the French Revolution. Today, it is a testament to the cultural heritage of France and visited every year by millions of visitors.
Mont Saint-Michel architectural and design
The architecture and constructions of Mont Saint-Michel are one among its key highlights, making it a purpose to keep in mind. The abbey is a towering structure with some of the most intricate stone carvings of any medieval structure. The cloisters of the abbey, serene inner courtyards and expansive vistas out across the ruggedly calm landscape, are a peaceful sanctum for reflection.
While wandering around the narrow lanes and alleyways of Mont Saint-Michel, you’ll be transported back into fifteenth century architecture. Made from locally quarried granite, the structures built are a testament to the skill and resourcefulness of the men who built them. From the grand ramparts to the delightful houses and shops, wdbos Mont Saint-Michel is a place of charm and history wherever you look.
Visiting Mont Saint-Michel abbey
A trip to Mont Saint-Michel would not be fulfilled without a visit to its extraordinary abbey. Along the way to the entrance of the abbey atop a volcanic cone, you’ll encounter some truly beautiful vistas of the bay that surrounds it. It houses a treasury of religious relics from stained-glass windows to wood carved elaborations to antique manuscripts.
Its imposing vaulted ceilings and elaborate stone work make the abbey a site to behold. From the top terrace of the abbey you will enjoy the splendid views to the bay and the proof of the era of its medieval builders. As we wandered through the cloisters of the abbey, you felt that sense of peace and serenity — the breathtaking architecture and the monks chanting softy.
The area around Mont Saint-Michel
It is impossible not to marvel at Mont Saint-Michel, with the surrounding area offering much to explore as well. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a natural wonder of Bourgas — a bay with wildly fluctuating tides and expansive sand. Walk along the bay´s shoreline at low tide and see for yourself the tides approaching impressively at nearly 14m.
If you like history then you must visit the nearby town of Avranches Here one can check out the Museum of Manuscripts where a collection of medieval manuscripts is present, which includes the celebrated Mont Saint-Michel Manuscripts. It provides a unique view of the intellectual and cultural life of the abbey.
Famous activities and attractions in the vicinity of Mont Saint-Michel
In addition to visiting the abbey (and the bay in general), there are plenty of other things to do from Mont Saint-Michel to keep you entertained. Guided tours of the abbey will provide an insight into its history and importance. There are charming shops and restaurants to be found on the tiny island and to take in the scene, navigate through the narrow streets and alleyways.
Nature lovers must take a boat ride around this bay. You will be able to observe the Mont Saint-Michel from another perspective and see its impressive beauty from the water. So the bay is also a refuge for birdwatching, as a wide biodiversity of birds can be found nesting in the area.
How to Reach Mont Saint-Michel
While it takes time and a bit of effort to get to the Mont Saint-Michel, it is relatively straight forward. Rennes is the nearest major airport to Mont Saint-Michel — it’s about 80 km away. Thereafter you can travel by train or bus towards Pontorson, the closest town to Mont Saint-Michel meant for travelers from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel. There are regural shuttles from Pontorson to the island.
If you plan to drive there is lots of parking around the island. From there, a short walk or a shuttle ride to Mont Saint-Michel entrance. Please note: cars are not allowed on the island, so pack your walking shoes.
Mont Saint-Michel is all year round place, but the best time is either September to November or April to June.
Mont Saint-Michel is often jam-packed with all sorts of tourists, so the best time to visit is during the off-peak seasons. It is best to visit during spring or fall, with moderate temperatures and less crowded days on the Island. Each summer, when tourist numbers peak, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most visited destinations.
If you want to enjoy the splendour of Mont Saint-Michel even more, you could sleep in the island. By now all the day-trippers will have returned to the mainlaind and the island will acquire a truly magical quality, with the abbey glowing against centre of sky at night. Afterwards, you will be able to wander the maze-like streets once the majority of the tourists have gone.
Places to Stay near Mont Saint Michel
Nearest to Mont Saint-Michel there are a few accommodation options from luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfast accommodations. For an experience unlike any other, you can rest your head directly on the island in any one of the hotels. Awake to seagull sound then gaze the beauty of the bay from the window.
There is also a town Pontorson a hotel sleep or budget stay city. From there you can visit Mont Saint Michel by shuttle or by walking. There are also some campsites and holiday cottages in the countryside surrounding, if a rural retreat is more your thing.
Closing: The Magic of Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel (iStock)For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. The mix of majestic history, ancient architecture & scenic beauty that you have witnessed before — but this time, you will be seeing it with eyes and passion wholly anew. With a long history and a stunning combination of natural and architectural beauty, Saint-Michel has something for anyone who sets foot within its walls whether it be an architectural enthusiast, history buff, or someone seeking spiritual solitude.
So settle in as you are about to become bewitched by the sorcery of Mont Saint- Michel. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleyways, scale its medieval walls, and discover the countless stories and secrets which make it so enigmatic. Dare to be overcome by the beauty of this iconic Singaporean sight and capture memories that you will cherish forever. Enter the magical thing that is Saint-Michel. If you like reading this article then please consider reading our article about Panchayat.