Excursion Mont saint michel tour at St Malo

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Embrace the beauty of one of the most renowned monuments in France during this full-day excursion to Mont St. Michel. The 'Wonder of the West', a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel St. Michael, and the village that grew up in the shadow of its great walls is perched on a rocky islet in the midst of vast sandbanks exposed to powerful tides between Normandy and Brittany. Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, the abbey is a technical and artistic tour de force, having had to adapt to the problems posed by this unique natural site.

Drive to Mont St. Michel

Depart the pier for a direct drive, approximate one-hour drive to Mont St. Michel, a monument often regarded as the 'Marvel of the Western World'. On the approach, marvel at the spectacular granite mount with its Abbey soaring high above the sea. Upon arrival at the coach parking area, precede on-foot to the shuttle bus, and then board the bus for the transfer to the village entrance.

Mont St. Michel and Abbey Tour

Around the base of the mount are the ancient ramparts and a jumble of houses lining the narrow streets. Your guide leads you up the cobbled street and 365 steps to access the famous Abbey. En route, admire the diverse architecture of Mont St. Michel, which was founded in the 10th century as the result of a dream vision; the Abbey was added three centuries later. At its very top gleams the gilded statue of Saint Michel. Upon entering the Abbey, walk up another 197 steps and begin your guided tour of its interior.

Lunch and Free Time

After descending back down to the village, some free time is made available for lunch and an opportunity to explore your surroundings at your leisure.

At the conclusion of your excursion to Mont St. Michel, re-join your guide and walk back to the shuttle, then begin the approximate 1-hour drive from the coach parking area back to the pier in St. Malo.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Mont Saint Michel, Abbey, Saint Michel Statue, Independent Shopping and Exploration

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of uphill and downhill walking on cobblestone streets, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 365 steps to access the Abbey and 197 steps inside the Abbey. Walking at Mont St. Michel is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed -toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Abbey; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Expect crowds and waiting times at the mount and Abbey.