Dining Experience at Legendary Mont Saint-Michel

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Writer Victor Hugo wrote, "…it is to the ocean what the Cheops Pyramid is to the desert… a masterpiece of nature and art."

Experience one of France's most beloved sites, the "Wonder of the West," on this full-day tour to the historic Mont Saint-Michel. Begin with a scenic two-hour motorcoach ride.

As you approach Mont Saint-Michel, the towering masterpiece seems to appear and disappear from view as you wind along the village streets and Mont Saint-Michel Bay. Upon arrival, gaze up at this UNESCO historical monument, built between sand and sky. A shuttle bus will conveniently bring you to the foot of the mount. In earlier times, visitors approached the island across the tidal flats and could access the shore only during low tide. A causeway was built in 1879 from the mainland to the island to improve access, and a new bridge was opened in 2014.

Your guide will lead you on a narrated tour through the narrow streets of the village, detailing the visionary architecture and details. Legend has it that the Archangel Michael appeared to the bishop of Avranches in 708 and told him to "build here and build high."

The abbey has been used for many purposes over the years; during the French Revolution it was used as a prison. After a renovation in the 19th century, the monastic community ensured the continuation of its spiritual presence.

After your guided exploration, enjoy free time to discover the area on your own and to peruse the shops brimming with mementos, keepsakes and regional specialties, such as traditional butter cookies, copperware and pottery. The mount requires climbing narrow stairs that date back to the Middle Ages, but your efforts are rewarded when you reach the top. Or choose to tour the dramatic abbey, a celebration of Norman architecture crowned by a 500-ft. tower. Take in the refectory and monks' dining halls, and the beautiful 13th-century Gothic cloister with panoramic views of the surrounding waters and thundering tides. You can climb down to the dark Romanesque foundations and look for the giant wheel that workers powered in order to haul stones and supplies from a landing below.

Rejoin the group for lunch at the renowned Mère Poulard restaurant located in the heart of Mont Saint Michel. World famous for its omelets delicately cooked over a fragrant wood fire, La Mère Poulard is considered an institution of French gourmet cuisine. This renowned establishment opened in 1888 as a humble inn owned by Annette and Victor Poulard. A welcoming retreat for weary pilgrims, guest found Annette kept the fire lit at all times to make her famous lighter than air soufflé-style omelet. Today you can taste this specialty of the house, cooked on a wood fire just as it was in the19th century; complimented by additional freshly made regional dishes. Bon Appétit!

Satiated, conclude your day with a quick ride on the shuttle bus followed by a picturesque drive back to Cherbourg.