HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE IN FRANCE?
The scent of free floating omnipresent arrogance and the sound of reverberating superior silence. This is how it feels to be in France [read: do not expect overfriendliness]. But there is one place in this country that has ability to transport you to a completely different dimension. Rising dramatically but proudly from the sea or towering over the sands unveiled by the receding tide, insanely looking Le Mont Saint Michel.
THE MEDIEVAL CITY ON THE ROCKS
This rocky island or rather a medieval city on the rock is located off the coast of Normandy. More often than not, this place is actually abominably jammed (stormed every year by approx. 2,5 millions visitors) and its medieval stone, wobbly alleys and pathways are covered with trinkets. But as dusk falls, Le Mont restores its magic, charm ad intimate vibe.
WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT LE MONT SAINT MICHEL?
What actually makes this place so phenomenal is the fact that the bay around Mont St-Michel has Europe’s highest tidal variations. There can be a difference of 15 meters (50 feet) between low and high tide. The Mont is only completely surrounded by the sea every month or two [in 2018 - 18 days].
There is also a “divine factor” associated with this place. Legend has it, the Archangel Michel appeared to St. Aubert telling him to build a church on Mont Saint-Michel and the 11th century Romanesque Abbey Church perched at the top of Mont, along with monastery, building and cloisters is now like a cherry on the cake.
To truly appreciate Le Mont St-Michel, come here off-season and stay overnight on the island in one of the hotels inside the walls or in the village outside the walls. (Warning: It is really not cheap but totally worth it). Do not be a tourist, do not tick off another box, take your time and contemplate this place.