Family Adventure to Mont Saint-Michel Bay

A Coastal Day of Discovery

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Chapeau Rouge. While not directly in Mont Saint-Michel Bay, it was a delightful start to our day, offering a taste of local flavors and setting the tone for our explorations. The breakfast was simple but satisfying, with fresh bread, pastries, and strong coffee—perfect fuel for a day of sightseeing. Lena particularly enjoyed the pain au chocolat, while Sophia devoured her croissant with impressive speed. I appreciated the charming, old-world atmosphere of the place, a great contrast to our modern Berlin life.

Fueled up, we headed straight for Mont Saint-Michel itself. The drive offered stunning views of the bay, and the anticipation built as the iconic silhouette of the abbey grew larger on the horizon. Parking was a bit of a walk, but the shuttle service made it easy to get to the base of the mount. From there, it was a climb up the winding streets, a journey through centuries of history etched into every stone.

Our first stop was Tour Gabriel, one of the tower ramparts surrounding the island. The climb to the top was worth every step, as the panoramic views of the bay were simply breathtaking. The tide was out, revealing the vast mudflats stretching towards the horizon. I could imagine how this tower once served as a crucial lookout point, guarding against potential invaders. Sophia was fascinated by the old cannons and enjoyed peering through the narrow windows, pretending to be a medieval sentinel. There was also a small museum inside the tower, filled with artifacts and photos relating to Mont Saint-Michel and the surrounding area.

After exploring Tour Gabriel, we made our way to Roche Torin, a spot recommended for its exceptional views of Mont Saint-Michel. It's located in Courtils, offering a different perspective of the famous site. The Manoir de la Roche Torin, a boutique hotel in the area, looked incredibly charming, with its peaceful grounds and stunning views. While we didn't stay there, I made a mental note for a future romantic getaway with Lena. The views from Roche Torin were indeed spectacular, providing a perfect vantage point to capture the grandeur of Mont Saint-Michel against the backdrop of the bay.

For lunch, we decided to try Le Tripot, a restaurant within Mont Saint-Michel known for its traditional Norman cuisine. We were ready for a proper meal after all the exploring we had done. Fortunately, we were able to find a table without much of a wait. The restaurant had a cozy, rustic atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and efficient. I opted for the lunch menu, which included a starter, main course, and dessert. The marinated clams were a delicious start, followed by a simple yet satisfying omelette with ham and cheese. Lena chose a salad, while Sophia happily devoured a plate of frites.

Sometimes, the best travel memories are made in the simplest of moments, like sharing a meal and soaking in the atmosphere of a new place.

After lunch, we couldn't resist a visit to the Biscuiterie de la Baie du Mont St Michel. Sophia's sweet tooth was definitely calling the shots here! The shop was filled with an array of tempting treats, from madeleines to palets. We sampled a few different biscuits and ended up buying a selection to take back with us. I was impressed by the variety of regional products they offered, and it was a great place to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back in Berlin. Sophia was thrilled with her box of madeleines, which she promptly started munching on.

As evening approached, we decided to have dinner at L'Hippocampe. I was intrigued by the reviews, and we were in the mood for a nice seafood meal. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and the service was attentive. I ordered the red snapper, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Lena chose the mahi-mahi, which she described as even better, with a unique combination of flavors. Sophia, of course, opted for something simpler, but she enjoyed her meal nonetheless. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploration, savoring delicious food while reflecting on our experiences.

One thing I've noticed is that Mont Saint-Michel and its bay are incredibly popular, especially during peak season. Finding moments of quiet contemplation can be a challenge, but they're definitely worth seeking out. Whether it's watching the sunset from Roche Torin or simply wandering the ramparts, there's a certain magic to this place that captivates the soul.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our plan is to explore the Digue du Sillon and the Basilique Saint-Gervais d'Avranches. I'm excited to see more of the surrounding area and delve deeper into the history and culture of this region. We'll start the day with breakfast at Restaurant La Salicorne, followed by lunch at La Nouvelle Terrasse. In the evening, we'll unwind at L'Antre Terre et Baie before having dinner at La Table - Beauvoir - Mont Saint-Michel.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Mont Saint-Michel Bay has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavors has created a truly immersive experience, and I'm grateful to be sharing it with Lena and Sophia.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I realize that it's not just about ticking off attractions from a list. It's about connecting with the place, experiencing its essence, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Mont Saint-Michel Bay has a way of drawing you in, of making you feel like you're part of its story. And that, I think, is the true magic of travel.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention! I did end up forgetting the sunscreen back in Berlin. Lesson learned: always double-check the essentials, even if you think you've got it covered. Thankfully, we were able to find some at a local shop, but it's a reminder that even the most seasoned travelers can make mistakes. And Sophia reminded me that I forgot the binoculars, so no bird watching for me!

Good night from Mont Saint-Michel Bay!