Mont-Saint-Michel Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Rising from the mudflats of the bay like a gothic mirage, this island commune changes its entire character with the pull of the moon. At low tide, walkers navigate the surrounding quicksand barefoot to approach the granite walls. High tide completely cuts the abbey off from the mainland, wrapping the fortress in swirling, fast moving water. Inside the gates, you immediately face the steep ascent of the Grande Rue, passing timber framed houses and the rhythmic whisking of eggs from La Mère Poulard kitchen. The climb rewards you with sweeping views across Normandy and Brittany from the West Terrace, where wind whips off the English Channel. Looking up from the cloisters, the gilded copper statue of the archangel Michael crowns the spire, pointing his sword straight at the clouds.
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