Mont Saint Michel, France-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport or Caen-Carpiquet Airport ( approx. 2-hour drive from Mont Saint Michel) and pick up your rental car.
  • 9:00 AM: Drive to Mont Saint Michel (approx. 45-minute drive). Park your car in the designated parking area near the bay.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey built on a rocky outcrop. Be sure to explore the cloisters, church, and museum.
  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Le Mouton Blanc, a restaurant serving traditional Norman cuisine. Try their famous crepes or seafood dishes.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the nearby village of Mont-Saint-Michel- Bay, where you can explore the shops, cafes, and enjoy the views of the abbey.
  • 5:00 PM: Watch the sunset over the bay for a breathtaking view.

Accommodation: Consider staying at:

  • Hotel Le Meurice ( luxury hotel with stunning views)
  • Auberge Saint-Pierre (mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms)

Day 2: Explore the Bay and Island

  • 9:00 AM: Take a boat tour of the bay, which offers a unique perspective on the abbey and surrounding landscape.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby island of Tombelaine, where you can explore the ruins of a medieval castle.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at La Barque, a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the village of Mont-Saint-Michel- Bay further, visiting the shops and cafes.

Day 3: Discover the Region

  • 9:00 AM: Drive to the nearby town of Pontorson (approx. 10-minute drive), where you can visit the Château de Champguyon.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the village of Gouville-sur-Mer, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views.
  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at La Maison des Eperviers, serving traditional Norman cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Return to Mont-Saint-Michel for some relaxation time.

Day 4: Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the village of Mont-Saint-Michel- Bay.
  • 11:00 AM: Return your rental car and depart from Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport or Caen-Carpiquet Airport.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially during the winter months. Bring warm clothing and waterproof gear.
  • Crowds: Mont Saint Michel is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season (June-August).
  • Security: Keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Transportation:

  • Rental Car: Rent a car from Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport or Caen-Carpiquet Airport to get around the region.
  • Public Transportation: Use the local bus service (TER Bretagne) to travel between Mont Saint Michel and nearby towns.

Tips:

  • Respect the Abbey: Be mindful of your surroundings and respect the abbey’s tranquility. Keep noise levels down and avoid disturbing other visitors.
  • Support Local Businesses: Support local restaurants, shops, and cafes by trying their traditional Norman cuisine and buying souvenirs from them.

Other Things to Do:

  • Hiking: Explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.
  • Kayaking: Take a guided kayaking tour of the bay for a unique perspective on the abbey.
  • Festivals: Visit during peak season (June-August) to enjoy festivals and events celebrating Norman culture.

Enjoy your trip to Mont Saint Michel!