Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay, Medieval abbey on tidal island in Normandy, France
Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay is a Benedictine monastery atop a granite island off Normandy's coast in northern France. The abbey crowns the peak while a medieval village with narrow lanes and stone buildings clings to the slopes below.
The first chapel was founded in 708 after Bishop Aubert received a vision of Archangel Michael. Over subsequent centuries, a large Benedictine monastery developed here, becoming a major center for learning and pilgrimage.
The site is dedicated to Archangel Michael, France's patron saint, reflecting its deep spiritual importance to believers and pilgrims. Visitors can sense how religious devotion and natural surroundings have shaped daily life here over many centuries.
Visitors should check tide schedules, as the island becomes surrounded by water at high tide and accessibility changes throughout the day. Access is either by foot at low tide or over a causeway, depending on current water levels and available shuttle services.
The bay experiences some of Europe's most dramatic tidal ranges, where water levels shift by up to 50 feet between low and high tide. This striking natural display has drawn artists and scientists to study and capture its power for centuries.
Location: Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Location: Pontorson
GPS coordinates: 48.63556,-1.51056
Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:43
La Mère Poulard
59 m
Porte du Roy
55 m
Croix du cimetière du Mont-Saint-Michel
51 m
Cimetière communal
51 m
Hôtel du Mouton Blanc
55 m
Villa Bellevue
45 m
Hôtel Saint-Pierre
49 m
Maison de l'Artichaut
38 m
Turm Denis
58 m
Turm der Arkade
56 m
Ancien hôtel de la Licorne
51 m
Hôtellerie de la Sirène
32 m
Ancien presbytère
18 m
Ancienne auberge Saint-Pierre
32 m
Maison et jardin du chapeau blanc
30 mMaison Blanche
11 m
Maison Verte
10 m
Chapelle Saint-Sébastien
42 m
Hôtel principal des établissements Poulard
57 m
Musée de la Mer et de l'Ecologie
48 m
Ancienne hôtellerie de l'escu de Bretaigne
39 m
Hôtel Poulard
36 m
Deux réservoirs d'eau
16 m
Propriété de l'Hermitage
11 m
Jardins Sainte-Catherine
37 m
Terrasse de la Maison-Rouge (Le Mont-Saint-Michel)
58 m
Ancienne maison de l'Éperon
54 m
Maison Ponceau et Eudes (Le Mont-Saint-Michel)
23 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes