Everyone harbors in their drawer some dreams related to travel, among the most coveted destinations ever, Normandy stands out, and especially being able to visit Mont Saint Michel. This abbey is a place steeped in magic, so much so it is considered the third most visited place in France, behind only the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles. But what is the story of this beautiful abbey? Are you ready to depart with us to explore this slice of heaven?

Visiting Mont Saint Michel: the story of a myth

The small islet of Mont Saint Michel rises off the northern coast of France, on a sandy clearing that extends over a kilometer into the ocean. It was here where an Abbey was erected in honor of Archangel Michael, a symbol of the entire island and a destination loved by international tourists. Its architectural beauty, combined with the charm of the bay and its daily tides, have made Mont Saint Michel the most frequented place in Normandy and France. It was the bishop of Avranches who consecrated the first church of Mont Saint Michel: according to tradition, in 709 AD, after three very peculiar dreams in which he had clear directives from Archangel Michael, the bishop decided to build a church on this marine-like mountain.

About three centuries after the bishop's initiative, a community of Benedictines arrived at Mont Saint Michel and dedicated themselves to building the abbey. These works, aimed at continuous improvement, lasted several centuries, but the pre-Romanesque church of Mont Saint Michel dates back to the year one thousand.

But the story of this incredible place does not end here: during the French Revolution, and then again under Napoleon, the abbey was converted into a prison before being entrusted in 1874 to the Superintendent of Fine Arts. On the occasion of its millennium, a monastic community returned to the island, making it once again a spiritual center.

Those who decide to visit Mont Saint Michel should know that, in addition to the abbey, there are numerous structures on the island classified as historical monuments, while the entire site has been part of UNESCO's World Heritage since 1979.

5 good reasons to discover Normandy

Considered one of the most appreciated regions of France, Normandy has a timeless charm that continues to captivate thousands of people year after year. Here are 5 good reasons to explore Normandy in summer, biking:

1. Visiting Mont Saint Michel

Seeing one of the wonders of the world in person and breathing in its atmosphere while strolling through its streets is undoubtedly one of the strongest motivations. Being able to personally live this experience, which combines works of art of nature and man, is something capable of making a mark in the heart of every traveler.

2. Enjoying a good glass of cider

To conclude the bike stage on the terrace of a Norman café, perhaps watching the sunset, savoring an excellent glass of local cider and being won over by the aroma of apples and the perfect balance between acidity and sweetness, is a journey to discovering the most authentic taste of Normandy.

3. Immersing oneself in the nature of the Regional Natural Park of Cotentin

This Natural Park is the perfect place for a stroll discovering the multitude of birds that have been nesting in this territory for years. Between La Manche and Calvados, this natural oasis is crossed by rivers, canals, and hedges in a true faunal paradise ideal for walking, biking, or horseback riding.

4. Biking along the landing beaches in Normandy

A trip to Normandy offers the opportunity to travel through the history of the 20th century, for example by biking among the landing beaches: Utah Beach, Omaha Beach to Juno Beach, between white cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, the Norman Bocage and the city of Caen, home to the unmissable Mémorial, a multimedia museum dedicated to World War II and symbol of a newly regained peace.

5. Tasting the typical dishes of the local culinary tradition

The Norman coast has much to offer to seafood enthusiasts, from the inevitable huitres, the famous Normandy oysters, to shellfish. Going from town to town, from Mont Saint-Michel Bay to beyond Dieppe, every restaurant offers moules frites, mussels, and French fries, often in the Normande variant with demi-sel butter, cider, and crème fraîche. An irresistible flavor explosion.

Visiting a dream place like Mont Saint Michel and fully experiencing the most authentic aspects of Normandy is a paradise for any traveler: pack your suitcase and get ready to leave with us!