A classic fairy tale island peaked by a majestic high rising monastery, the Mont-Saint-Michel counts among the most stunning sights in France.
This holy island is now one of the major pilgrimage destinations in Europe. The unforgettable sight of Mont draws the eye from a long distance.
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What is Mont Saint Michel known for?
It is a tidal island with an interesting history and has been through numerous ups and downs. According to legends, Archangel Michel appeared in Saint Aubert’s visions in 708 A.D. and asked him to build a church on the Mont. What you see of Mont Saint Michel today, was built between the eleventh and sixteenth centuries.
It doesn’t really end here. There have been innumerable attempts to conquer the Mont and make use of its strategic position since then. Mont is forged with fortifications and played the role of a prison during the French revolution.
It was in the nineteenth century that they had the Abbey restored and declared the Mont a historical landmark. As of today, hardly 50 people live on the island city, which includes a small population of nuns and monks. The Mont is currently known as a legendary pilgrimage site, harboring a rich history.
Can you live in this picturesque place permanently?
Unfortunately, you can’t reside here as a permanent resident. The municipality has got strict regulations. You can nevertheless sleep for a night in one of the handfuls of rooms spread across a couple of hotels on the island.
How far is Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris?
Paris and Saint Mont Michel lay 360 kilometers apart. A typical journey takes around 3 to 4 hours. You can travel to this island from Paris by the following two routes:
- TGV or Train A Grand Vitesse – Get on this train from Gare Montparnasse in Paris, and travel to Rennes. From Rennes, keolis buses operate to Mont Saint Michel quite a few times a day.
- You can also hire a private car from Paris to Mont Saint Michel, Normandy, France. Once you step at the edge of the mainland, either walk or take a shuttle across the Pont Passerelle, and you will reach the island.
A little insight into the famous Mont Saint Michel Bay
The Mont Saint Michel bay is among the world’s most beautiful bays and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the Mont Saint Michel. It is situated between Brittany and Normandy.
The bay is home to two magnificent islands, namely, Tombelaine and Mont-Saint-Michel. The tides are always fluctuating, and low tides unveil the holy bay.
As a matter of fact, this holy island was the inspiration for the design and set up of Minas Tirith in “The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.”
Come to this fascinating island conceived in the dreams of a bishop for an unforgettable and jaw-dropping experience and do try out some Les Galettes, the delicious local butter cookies.
