Mont Saint Michel Attractions

From the mainland a causeway 1.8km/1mi long, constructed in 1879, leads to the foot of the rock, where there is a parking lot (parking fee; beware of high tide!).

From here we pass through the outer walls at the Porte du Roi and continue up the Grande Rue, the island's only street, running parallel to the Chemin des Remparts (the wall-walk). The street is lined by closely packed houses of the 15th and 16th centuries, now occupied by souvenir shops, snack bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels.

The parish church (15th-16th century) contains 17th century tomb slabs. The history of Mont St- Michel is related in the Musée Grevin (a wax museum) and the Archéoscope (a multi-media show). The street ends at the Grand Degré, a flight of steps leading to the entrance to the abbey.

The annual autumn pilgrimage to Mont St Michel is in September and October.

Musical Hours of Mont Saint Michel is an annual festival with a series of eight concerts which take place between late July and late August. Only two of the concerts take place on the island, while the other six are staged on the mainland. The performances include choral and chamber concerts and piano recitals, although the music itself varies from classical to more contemporary.