Mont-St-Michel

SHROUDED BY MIST, engulfed by sea, soaring proud above glistening sands - the silhouette of Mont-St-Michel is one of the most enchanting sights in France. Now linked to the mainland by a causeway, the island of Mont-Tombe (Tomb on the Hill) stands at the mouth of the river Couesnon, crowned by a fortified abbey that almost doubles its height. Lying strategically on the frontier between Normandy and Brittany, Mont-St-Michel grew from a humble 8th century oratory to become a Benedictine monastery that had its greatest influence in the 12th and 13th centuries . Pilgrims known as miquelots journeyed from afar to honour the cult of St-Michael, and the monastery was a renowned centre of medievel learning. After the Revolution the abbey became a prison. It is now a national monument that draws some 850,000 visitors a year.

Tides of Mont-St-Michel ~ Extremely strong tides in the Baie du Mont-St-Michel act as a natural defence. They rise and fall with the lunar calender and can reach speeds of 30 km/h (18 mph) in spring.

Abbey ~ Protected by high walls, the abbey and its church occupy an impregnable position on the island.

Grande Rue : Now crowded with tourists and souvenir shops, the pilgrims' route, followed since the 12th century, climbs up past Eglise St-Pierre tot he abbey gates.

Night view of the Mont-St-Michel taken from postcard