GR 39: Mont Saint-Michel

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Features Historical Significance

A trip to Mont Saint-Michel is an unforgettable experience. The medieval monastery perched on the round island of Mont Saint-Michel has an Old World charm that you won't soon forget. Touted as one of France's most stunning sites, it was once one of Europe's major pilgrimages. Now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is still an extremely popular destination.

When planning your trip, by sure to arrange your transportation and check current prices.

The hike to Mont Saint-Michel follows along the course of the Couesnon River. From the large parking area, you'll join many other hikers on the path out to the causeway. There is a visitor center if you would like more information before beginning the hike.

The first part is a wide path, atop a grassy dike alongside the river. You'll already have fabulous views of the isle in the distance over the bay. Very soon the Couesnon, will widen into a large estuary—at high tide you'll be hiking along the water, and at low tide, the bay will be a large sandy expanse with tide pools. You can book a guide if you would like to hike out on the bay at low tide.

The walkway will eventually lead you to Mont Saint-Michel, where you can explore the wonder of this medieval abbey perched in the bay between Normandy and Brittany.

A Gothic-style Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel Saint Michael that was built in the 11th and 16th centuries. One of Europe's great pilgrimage sites.