The Grand Degré, a

The Grand Degré, a narrow staircase of 350 steps leads you to the Abbey entrance. Here you can experience the splendour of the abbey and explore the labyrinth of buildings linked by suspended passageways over three floors. Inside the magnificent Gothic-style Benedictine Abbey, the imposing 11th century nave is an impressive sight with its grand arches, galleries and tall windows. Services are still held here daily (except Mondays) and there are weekend masses. The west terrace offers a unique view of the spire of the church tower mounted with a gravitydefying, gilded copper statue of Saint Michael and views of the Breton town of Cancale to the west, the cliffs of Normandy to the east and the archipelago of the Chausey Isles (where granite was sourced to build the abbey) out to sea. Here, you can also appreciate the small monastic and village gardens from above. The walkway continues around a courtyard through the cloisters, small columns create constantly changing views before arriving in the refectory, and it’s here that monks once ate their meals in reverent silence. Finally, you can descend to the underground crypts and their magnificent stone pillars supporting the weight of the church and acknowledge this true architectural marvel. Tombelaine Islet Cloisters Back at the base of the mount, you can walk in the bay up to the Islet of Tombelaine on a guided tour and discover the quicksands and bird life – the islet is a bird reserve and Statue st Micheal protected breeding ground for gulls and passerines. Alternatively, take a hike along the coastline for the most beautiful views of Mont- Saint-Michel. Dine at: Restaurant La Ferme St Michel Sample salt marsh lamb and whelk specialities served in the airy, stone-walled farmhouse, Route du Mont-Saint-Michel, La Caserne. When to visit June to August is one of the best times to visit with the warmest temperatures in Normandy and pleasant weather but be aware that these are also the busiest months and Mont-Saint- Michel can be very crowded. Another great time to visit is during Spring with the largest tides in Europe surrounding the Mont and you can witness an extraordinary sight as the Mont becomes an island, enveloped by the ocean. What to see and do nearby: Avranches Extend your visit and discover the other delights of the bay and surroundings. In nearby Avranches, there is a Scriptorial museum which guards and preserves the Abbey’s ancient manuscripts which were found in the Abbey treasury. Take some additional time to see Avranches’ amazing architecture including charming churches, the old castle and the majestic town hall. Dine at: La Toque Aux Vins, a newly refurbished bistro and bar that the locals love for the relaxed ambience and exquisite cuisine, 8 Rue de la Mairie. Stay at: La Croix d’Or, a charming hotel-restaurant (and former coaching inn) in the centre of Avranches, 83 Rue de la Constitution. Moidrey Windmill and salt marsh sheep One of the highlights of the peaceful landscapes around the bay is the Moulin de Moidrey, a stunning Norman windmill, located within 5 kilometres of Mont Saint Michel. Also, inland from Mont Saint Michel you can see sheep graze on the salt marshes at low tide and enjoy this distinctive agricultural practice. Dine at: the nearby Le Grillon in Pontorson with tasty pancakes and an awesome grill, 37 Rue Couesnon. 74 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 75