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Moulin de Moidrey: A Step Back in Time

Discover the timeless charm of Moulin de Moidrey, a working 19th-century windmill near Mont-Saint-Michel, offering stunning views and a taste of traditional Norman milling practices.

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The Moulin de Moidrey, a charming windmill near Mont-Saint-Michel, offers a delightful escape from the crowds. Built in 1806 and meticulously restored in the early 2000s, this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a glimpse into traditional milling practices. Visitors can explore the inner workings of the mill, learn about its history from the passionate miller, and even purchase freshly ground flour. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the Mont-Saint-Michel bay, making it a picturesque and enriching experience. It's a perfect stop for families and those seeking a unique cultural experience in the Normandy region, combining history, craftsmanship, and breathtaking scenery. The mill is open seasonally, typically from mid-February to mid-November, with varying hours, and offers guided tours that provide insight into the milling process.

A brief summary to Moulin de Moidrey

  • Monday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase freshly ground flour at the mill to experience the authentic taste of Normandy.
  • Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and tour schedules before visiting.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Mont-Saint-Michel for a complete cultural experience.
  • Enjoy the panoramic views of the Mont-Saint-Michel bay from the windmill's elevated position.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pontorson, follow the D976 towards Mont-Saint-Michel. The Moulin de Moidrey is visible from the road, approximately 3 kilometers outside of Pontorson. Turn onto Rue des Moulins. Parking is available near the mill. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From the Pontorson-Mont-Saint-Michel train station, take a taxi to the Moulin de Moidrey, which is roughly 5 kilometers away. Taxi fares typically range from €15-€20. Alternatively, during the operating season, you could walk from the train station, which is approximately a 1-hour walk.

  • Bicycle

    Follow the Véloscénie, a 450-kilometer bike route from Notre-Dame de Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel. The Moulin de Moidrey is located on the path connecting Mont-Saint-Michel to Pontorson. Bike rentals are available in Pontorson.

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Discover more about Moulin de Moidrey

Nestled in the heart of the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, just 5 kilometers from the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel itself, stands the Moulin de Moidrey, a testament to Normandy's rich history and enduring traditions. This charming windmill, perched atop a small hill in the village of Moidrey, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the art of traditional flour production. Constructed in 1806, the Moulin de Moidrey played a vital role in the local community for nearly a century, providing freshly milled flour to the inhabitants of the region. However, with the advent of modern milling techniques, the windmill gradually fell into disuse, eventually being transformed into a hayloft and later abandoned after the Second World War. For decades, the Moulin de Moidrey stood silent and forgotten, a relic of a bygone era. In the early 2000s, a dedicated group of preservationists embarked on an ambitious project to restore the Moulin de Moidrey to its former glory. Painstakingly rebuilt using traditional methods and materials, the windmill was brought back to life, its sails once again turning in the wind. In 2007, the Moulin de Moidrey was recognized for its cultural significance and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Mont-Saint-Michel and its bay. Today, the Moulin de Moidrey is more than just a historical landmark; it is a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of tradition. Visitors to the windmill can explore its inner workings, marvel at the intricate machinery, and learn about the fascinating process of transforming grain into flour. The passionate miller, Mickaël Letranchant, offers engaging guided tours, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors of all ages. Mickaël explains the secrets of his craft with humor, making the visit both educational and entertaining. The Moulin de Moidrey produces a variety of flours using traditional methods, including buckwheat, wheat, and rye. These freshly milled flours are available for purchase in the windmill's shop, allowing visitors to take a taste of Normandy home with them. The mill produces around eight tons of flour each year, sold to local artisans and visitors. Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the Moulin de Moidrey also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From its elevated position, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Mont-Saint-Michel bay, with the iconic silhouette of Mont-Saint-Michel itself rising majestically in the distance. The surrounding fields, often dotted with grazing sheep, add to the idyllic charm of the scene. A visit to the Moulin de Moidrey is an enriching experience for the whole family. Children will be captivated by the sight of the windmill's sails turning in the wind and fascinated by the process of flour production. The miller's engaging tours make learning about history and craftsmanship fun and accessible for all ages. Note that the guided tour may not be suitable for people with reduced mobility due to the presence of stairs inside the mill. However, a simple tour is accessible to everyone. The Moulin de Moidrey is open seasonally, typically from mid-February to mid-November, with varying hours depending on the time of year. It is advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and tour schedules. Located just a short drive from Mont-Saint-Michel, the Moulin de Moidrey is easily accessible by car. Ample parking is available near the windmill. For those traveling by public transport, the nearby town of Pontorson is served by trains and buses, with local taxis providing transportation to the Moulin de Moidrey. The Moulin de Moidrey is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a symbol of Normandy's enduring heritage and a testament to the power of human ingenuity. A visit to this charming windmill is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of traditional flour production and the beauty of the Mont-Saint-Michel bay. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a picturesque escape, the Moulin de Moidrey is sure to delight. So, come and discover the timeless charm of this Norman windmill and experience a taste of tradition in the heart of the Mont-Saint-Michel bay. The windmill itself is a cylindrical stone structure topped with a conical chestnut shingle roof. Its four sails, covering 52 square meters and weighing three tons, use the Berton system, where wooden planks slide to adjust the surface area exposed to the wind. The roof alone weighs nine tons. The surrounding area of Pontorson also offers additional attractions, including the Église Notre-Dame, a blend of Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and remnants of the Château de Pontorson. Pontorson serves as a gateway town to Mont-Saint-Michel, providing a quieter alternative to staying directly on the island.

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