Mont Saint Michel & Abbey Discovery: Guided Tour from Bayeux

EXPERIENCE THE ENCHANTING MONT SAINT MICHEL WITH OUR EXPERT GUIDE

Join us for an extraordinary Normandy tour and meet your English-speaking driver/guide, a local expert on the captivating region of Normandy. Upon arrival at the designated meeting point, be greeted by our friendly guide holding a sign bearing the tour name and the iconic Ophorus logo. You can easily recognize our guides as they proudly wear nominative badges.

Once acquainted with your guide, they will provide a detailed overview of the day's program and itinerary of this Mont Saint Michel day trip. Step into our comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan and embark on a memorable journey to visit the mesmerizing Mont Saint Michel.

Enjoy comfort and engaging commentary during the drive as all our vehicles are equipped with an onboard P/A system, ensuring that everyone, including those seated at the back of the van, can hear the guide's insightful commentary throughout the journey.

TRAVEL TO SOUTHERN NORMANDY

Prepare to discover the remarkable Gothic jewel, Mont Saint Michel, one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France. Situated just 1 kilometer off the coast of Normandy and Brittany, in the English Channel, it rests in a bay renowned for some of Europe's largest tides. A connecting bridge to the mainland, which occasionally gets flooded during high tides, adds to its unique allure.

MONT SAINT MICHEL ABBEY

Mont Saint Michel Abbey is a prime example of the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture in the middle ages. The complex showcases the technical and artistic mastery of mediaeval architects. The construction of the Abbey is particularly notable for its adaptation to the challenging conditions of the mount – built on a rocky, uneven island with limited space.

The history of Mont Saint Michel began in 708 AD when, according to legend, the Archangel Michael appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches, instructing him to build a church on the rocky islet. The earliest church was a simple oratory.

In the 10th century, Benedictine monks settled on the mount, leading to the establishment of a Romanesque abbey. This period saw the first major phase of construction, where a pre-Romanesque church and several monastic buildings were erected.

The Romanesque phase of the Abbey began in earnest in the 11th century. The construction involved massive underground crypts and chapels to support the weight of the Abbey above and to deal with the uneven and unstable rock foundation. The church was expanded with the addition of the nave, transept, and choir. The iconic West façade, with its two towers and the northern façade of the nave, was also part of this phase.

The 13th century marked a significant shift towards Gothic architecture. This period is known for the construction of the Merveille ("Marvel"), a set of buildings on the north side of the rock. The Merveille includes two three-story buildings, housing the monk's cloister, refectory, guest rooms, and storerooms.

Mont Saint Michel During Hundred Years' War: During the Hundred Years' War, the abbey was fortified. The construction of military structures like the "Châtelet" (small castle) entrance and the "Boulevard" terrace was completed to defend against English attacks.

In the 15th century, the Romanesque choir of the Abbey church collapsed and was replaced by a Flamboyant Gothic structure. The 17th century saw some modifications with the addition of classical elements.

The Abbey was used as a prison during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era, leading to some degradation. Restoration works began in the 19th century and continued into the 20th century, led by notable architects like Viollet-le-Duc. These efforts restored much of the Abbey to its former glory and ensured its preservation.

VISIT THE MAGNIFICENT BENEDICTINE ABBEY WITH YOUR GUIDE

Centuries of architectural brilliance have bestowed upon us a magnificent historic monument now celebrated as the "Wonder of the Western World" and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Follow your tour guide on a captivating walking guided tour of the Abbey, delving into its fascinating history and architectural marvels. Don't miss the opportunity to capture breathtaking views of the surrounding bay.

During your day trip to Le Mont Saint Michel and its bay, our friendly English-speaking driver/guide will escort you from Bayeux to the site. Access to Mont Saint Michel is facilitated by a shuttle and the bridge, in accordance with local requirements. Please note that the walk to the Abbey can be challenging if you have walking difficulties as it requires to climb around 350 steps.

EXPERIENCE THE VIBRANT VILLAGE OF MONT SAINT MICHEL

After exploring the Abbey, enjoy some free time to wander through the town at your leisure. Take home souvenirs for your loved ones from the charming local shops. Our guide will provide recommendations for excellent restaurants suitable for all budgets, ensuring a delightful lunch experience.

If you desire an indulgent treat, the renowned La Mère Poulard restaurant is a must-visit. Famous for its unique "omelette soufflé" recipe, it is a culinary delight worth experiencing during your visit of Mont Saint Michel day tour. Keep in mind that the restaurant's popularity with visitors may require a significant amount of waiting time.

We highly recommend this extraordinary opportunity to explore the enchanting island of Mont Saint Michel with our expert guide. Reserve your place now and be part of this unforgettable journey through Normandy's captivating history and beauty.

If you wish to organise your tour of Mont Saint Michel from Paris, we highly recommend you arrive in Bayeux the day before your tour date.