Gateway to History: Porte de l'Avancée

Step through the Porte de l'Avancée and journey back in time to explore the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site where history and stunning architecture converge.

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Mont Saint Michel
Porte de l'avancée

The Porte de l'Avancée, or Advanced Gate, stands as the primary entrance to the captivating Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and architectural grandeur. This formidable gateway, dating back to the 16th century, is more than just an entrance; it's a journey back in time. As you approach, the towering stone walls and intricate details whisper tales of medieval sieges, monastic life, and the countless pilgrims who have passed through its archway. The atmosphere is thick with history, enhanced by the stunning views of the bay and the dramatic tides that isolate the mount. Passing through the Porte de l'Avancée is an immersive experience, transporting you to a realm where time seems to stand still, inviting exploration of the narrow, winding streets and the magnificent abbey that awaits above.

A brief summary to Porte de l'avancée

Corps de Garde des Bourgeo, Mont Saint-Michel, 50170, FR

Local tips

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience a more peaceful visit.
Check the tide schedule before your visit to witness Mont Saint-Michel become an island, a truly unique experience.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets and climbing steep inclines.

Getting There

Shuttle Bus

The final approach to Porte de l'Avancée involves taking the free shuttle bus, 'Le Passeur,' from the mainland parking area. After parking in the designated lots (P2-P13), follow signs for the shuttle. The shuttle runs frequently, approximately every 15 minutes, from 7:30 AM to midnight in the summer and with slightly reduced hours in other seasons. The ride takes about 12 minutes, dropping you off approximately 350 meters from the entrance to Mont Saint-Michel. This service is free of charge and wheelchair accessible. Parking costs vary depending on the season: Low season (October to March) is around €6.80, mid-season (April, May, June & September) is around €17 and high season (July & August) is around €25 for 24 hours. Parking is free after 6:30 PM during low and mid-season.
Walking

For those who prefer to walk, a pedestrian path is available from the parking area to Mont Saint-Michel. Follow the signs for 'La Lisière' or 'Les Berges du Couesnon.' The walk takes approximately 45-50 minutes and offers scenic views of the bay. Upon arrival to Mont Saint-Michel, proceed through the main entrance, where the Porte de l'Avancée will be directly ahead. Note that this option involves a considerable walk and may not be suitable for everyone. Parking costs are the same as with the shuttle bus option.

Discover more about Porte de l'avancée

The Porte de l'Avancée, or Advanced Gate, serves as the main entrance to Mont Saint-Michel, a historic tidal island commune in Normandy, France. More than just a physical entry point, it is a symbolic threshold, transporting visitors back through centuries of history and architectural evolution. This imposing gate, part of the island's fortifications, offers a glimpse into the strategic defenses that have protected Mont Saint-Michel throughout its storied past. Originally, Mont Saint-Michel, known as Mont Tombe, was a rocky islet with a small church constructed in 708 AD by Saint Aubert, the bishop of Avranches, after a vision of the Archangel Michael. As the mount became an important pilgrimage site, the need for fortifications grew. The village developed at the foot of the abbey, requiring protection from potential invaders, particularly during the Hundred Years' War. The Porte de l'Avancée, constructed in the 16th century, was one of three successive gates built to defend the entrance to the mount, each adding layers of security. The Porte de l'Avancée leads to the Courtyard of the same name, which houses the former Corps de Garde des Bourgeois, a 16th-century guardhouse. This gate, while not as heavily fortified as the subsequent gates, served as an initial defense point, allowing guards to monitor and control access to the mount. Its design reflects a blend of necessity and architectural style, fitting seamlessly into the overall aesthetic of Mont Saint-Michel. Passing through the Porte de l'Avancée, visitors enter a world of narrow, winding streets lined with medieval shops and homes. The main thoroughfare, the Grande Rue, ascends towards the abbey, offering stunning views of the bay and the surrounding landscape. The architecture is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past, with stone buildings clinging to the steep slopes of the mount. The strategic importance of Mont Saint-Michel is evident in its fortifications. The tides, which can rise up to 15 meters, isolating the mount from the mainland, provided a natural defense. The man-made fortifications, including the Porte de l'Avancée, added an additional layer of protection, making the mount a formidable stronghold. Over the centuries, Mont Saint-Michel has withstood numerous sieges and attacks, a testament to its strategic design and the resilience of its inhabitants. Today, Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors each year. The Porte de l'Avancée remains a key part of the visitor experience, offering a tangible connection to the mount's rich history. As visitors pass through its archway, they are transported back in time, imagining the lives of the monks, soldiers, and pilgrims who once walked these same streets. The preservation of Mont Saint-Michel is an ongoing effort, with significant projects undertaken to restore the mount's maritime character. These projects include the removal of the causeway that once connected the mount to the mainland, replaced by a bridge that allows the tides to flow freely around the island. This restoration not only enhances the mount's natural defenses but also preserves its unique ecosystem. Visiting the Porte de l'Avancée is more than just a stroll through a historic site; it's an immersion into a living piece of history. The atmosphere is palpable, with the sounds of the sea, the cries of the seagulls, and the echoes of the past creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an avid historian, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Porte de l'Avancée offers a glimpse into the past while providing access to the wonders that lie ahead. The Porte de l'Avancée stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Mont Saint-Michel, a place where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge to create a truly unique destination. Its stones whisper tales of centuries past, inviting visitors to explore the mount's rich heritage and discover the magic that has captivated generations. As you stand before the Porte de l'Avancée, take a moment to appreciate the history and significance of this iconic gateway. Imagine the countless pilgrims who have passed through its archway, their hearts filled with hope and devotion. Consider the soldiers who defended this mount against invaders, their courage and determination ensuring its survival. The Porte de l'Avancée is more than just an entrance; it's a portal to the past, a reminder of the enduring power of history and the human spirit. Mont Saint-Michel is more than just a destination; it's an experience. From the moment you approach the Porte de l'Avancée, you'll be captivated by its beauty, its history, and its unique atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the abbey, wandering the streets of the village, or simply gazing out at the bay, you'll find yourself transported to another world, a world where time stands still and the magic of the past comes alive. So, step through the Porte de l'Avancée and embark on a journey of discovery. Explore the wonders of Mont Saint-Michel and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let the stones whisper their tales, let the sea sing its song, and let the magic of this extraordinary place fill your heart.

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Les Mouettes

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Le Bercail

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Le Dock

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La Java Café

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Gateway to History: Porte de l'Avancée

A brief summary to Porte de l'avancée

Local tips

Getting There

Shuttle Bus

Walking

Unlock the Best of Porte de l'avancée

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Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Porte de l'avancée

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rte du Mont Saint-Michel

Malouinière de la Ville Bague

Jacques Cartier Museum

The Sculptured Rocks

Quartier a visiter a st malo

La Nouvelle Vague

Église Saint-François-Xavier

Grand Aquarium Saint Malo

La Houbarderie

Plage de la Hoguette

Musée des Terre-Neuvas

Le Vauban 2-La Grande Passerelle

Maison Du Peuple

Saint Malo

Parking Place de l'Hermine

Unmissable attractions to see

The King's Gate

The Center for National Monuments

Maison de l'Artichaut

Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

Freedom Tower

Mont Saint-Michel

Tour Gabriel

Archéoscope

Grande Rue

Cloître de l'abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel

Church of Saint-Pierre - Le Mont-Saint-Michel

Logis Tiphaine

Jardins de la Croix de Jérusalem (Le Mont-Saint-Michel)

Chapelle du Saint-Aubert

Essential places to dine

La Terrasse

Hotel La Mère Poulard

Restaurant La Confiance

Restaurant Creperie Bar

La Sirène Lochet

Auberge Saint Pierre

Le Chapeau Rouge

Restaurant Du Guesclin

Bar Restaurant Saint Michel

Le Tripot

Mont burger

La Cloche

Le Mouton Blanc

La Vieille Auberge Mont Saint-Michel

La Nouvelle Terrasse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Librairie Logis Saint-Pierre

SARL SOLUCA

Frammery Maryvonne

Boutique mère poulard

Les Mouettes

Les Lutins

La Belle Normande

Cheval Blanc

Aux 3 Croissants Shop

La Fée des Grèves

Au Pot de Cuivre

Librairie du Sanctuaire - librairie religieuse du Mont Saint Michel

Glace À L'italienne

Glaces Moustache Mont-Saint-Michel Artisan Glacier

Les Galeries Du Mont-Saint Michel

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar des Amis PMU

BAR LOUNGE LA ROSERAIE - BEAUVOIR - MONT SAINT-MICHEL

La Pause K’Fée

BROOKLYN