Mont Saint Michel

Visit Mont Saint Michel

• To see

  The main draw of Saint Michel lies in its Abbey of Mont Saint Michel (L'Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel): ?8.5 adult, ?5 18-25 years old (free for citizens of the EU), and free for under 18s. The abbey used to be a small basic monastery that was turned into a prison during the French Revolution before being restored back to its former glory (and beyond post-revolution). A few remnants of its days as a prison, like a human hamster wheel, are on show. Mass is celebrated every day except for Mondays. If you are in Saint Michel, the other attraction is the Notre-Dame Sous Terre Chapel, literally meaning 'Our Lady Underground'. The chapel was built in 966.

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  To do

  When visiting Saint Michel, beware of the crowds, which can be overwhelming especially during religious festivities and the summer season. However, to make sure you get a bit of a break, have a wander around on the fortified village's ramparts, which boast beautiful views of the mainland and surrounding waters. Alternatively you should drop by the several gardens that dot the island. Something else most people seem to like doing, is to wander in and out of the plethora of tourist shops selling cheap souvenirs, which somewhat spoils the atmosphere of the village. Restaurants on the mainland are significantly less expensive. You can get around on foot or bike all over the island, which can be explored in a few hours.

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  To think about

  Before setting off to visit the area, make sure you have made accommodation plans as the hotels within the township and nearby on the mainland, are very busy, especially during the summer season and Christian festivities. However, you should only need a few hours to explore Saint Michel, so we wouldn't recommend staying unless you hold the islet close to your heart!

  The steps to the top of the mount can be very steep, so make sure you are physically fit to climb up.

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• To avoid

  To avoid the impressive crowds that fill Saint Michel narrow streets, escape to the ramparts that surround the island where it is less crowded. Always use the main entrance causeway to gain access the Saint Michel as entering it via the sea can be extremely dangerous due to strong tides and quicksand. Also, avoid eating on the actual mount as the food isn't particularly good and it doesn't come cheap!

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  To try

  There is no particular dish to try apart from the usual French specialties, however, most devout fans of Saint Michel will insist on every passer-by trying the mount's omelets and salt marsh lamb (agneau de Pré Salé). Otherwise, as we mention below, the restaurants and cafés on the island are harshly overpriced, which may be acceptable if the food was of a superior standard - which it clearly isn't. So make sure you either plan for a meal budget if there is a large group of you, or head somewhere on the mainland.

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  To bring back

  Most people tend to bring back a naff souvenir from one of the various shops, but in essence there isn't much in terms of things to buy.

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