Mont Saint-Michel

By piglet990

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Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a small island in the Normandy region of France, characterized by its small, mountain-like shape with a church sitting on top. However, perhaps one of the most interesting features of the island is that it is only accessible at certain points of the day. The reason for this is that the island is actually connected to the mainland through a thin strip of land that acts as a bridge. When the tide is high, water covers the strip, and the island becomes impossible to travel to or from, which is an especially important point to remember if one is driving their own car to this location (upon arrival, notices of tidal times are posted so that drivers know when to move their cars before high tide). Besides the peculiar geography, there is much to capture the interest of visitors on this small island. Touristy, fun shops and cafes line the narrow lane to the top of the hill, but the main attraction lies at the top where the abbey sits, looking over all the surrounding land and water. This climb, however, is not for the frail or faint of heart, and though rewarding, it is fairly rigorous, so visitors should be aware of this, and make sure they are up to the task of climbing to the top. The the gothic abbey provides much opportunity for visitors to explore, showcasing its crypt, cloister, refectory, and chapels, and even still holds mass. Whether from the church, the view, or maybe from both, a visit to Mont Saint-Michel will prove an extremely rewarding and spiritual experience.

http://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/accueil_gb.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mont_Saint-Michel


The Abbey can be entered for 8.50 Euros, open daily from 9am to 7pm.

By train
From Paris (Montparnasse station), take the TGV high-speed train to Rennes. This is a 2 hour ride, and requires reservations. From Rennes, there are buses to Mont Saint Michel (no reservation for bus required). The buses are timed to match the arrival of the TGV, and the ride will take about 90 minutes. Getting to MSM is not terribly difficult, but it is imperative that you don't miss the train. There are not so many departures per day, and you will want to catch the earliest train (7am departure will arrive at 11am). Keolis Emeraude operates the buses.

By car
Located in Normandy, drive from Caen along the A84 south-west to Pontorson, and continue to Avranches. Merge with the D4 and follow the signs.

Official Mont Saint Michel website




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