5-Day Itinerary for Mont Saint-Michel

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the Town

Activities:

• Arrive at Rennes airport or train station.
• Rent a car (highly recommended due to limited public transportation) or book a guided tour from a local operator.
• Head towards Mont Saint-Michel (approximately 1 hour drive).
• Walk around the town, explore its narrow streets and quaint shops.
• Visit the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel and learn about its history.

Where to Eat:

• Le Refuge, a restaurant offering traditional French cuisine with stunning views of the bay.
• La Mère Poulard, famous for its delicious crêpes and creamy eggs Florentine.

Where to Stay:

• Hôtel-Restaurant du Soulique offers comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.
• Le Relais de la Possonnière is another great option, offering luxury suites with breathtaking views of the bay.

Day 2: Exploring the Abbey & Surroundings

Activities:

• Visit the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel again, but this time explore its cloisters, refectory, and other areas that were closed the previous day.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the abbey’s history and significance.
• Walk along the Dune Trail for spectacular views of the bay and the abbey.

Where to Eat:

• Auberge Maringue, located in the village, offers seafood specialties.
• La Chaumière, known for its homemade cider and traditional dishes.

Day 3: Day Trip to Dinan

Activities:

• Drive or take a guided tour to Dinan (approximately 1 hour drive).
• Explore the medieval town with its well-preserved ramparts, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.
• Visit the Château de Dinan and its museum.
• Return to Mont Saint-Michel in the evening.

Where to Eat:

• Le Pressoir d’Auge, a restaurant offering local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.

Day 4: Relaxation & Local Culture

Activities:

• Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s maritime history.
• Take a walk along the bay at low tide and explore the sands around Mont Saint-Michel.
• Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the nearby sandy beaches or relaxing in a café in the town.

Where to Eat:

• La Gargote, known for its seafood platters and local wines.
• Le Petit Café, offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of dishes.

Day 5: Departure

Activities:

• Spend the morning relaxing or shopping in Mont Saint-Michel.
• Depart for Rennes airport or train station (approximately 1 hour drive).

Things to Know:

• Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of France’s most visited attractions, so it can get crowded. Try to visit early in the day or during off-peak seasons.
• Be prepared for the tidal changes as the bay around Mont Saint-Michel can be completely dry at low tide.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of cobblestone streets and stairs to navigate in the town.
• Check the tide times to plan your visits to the abbey and the sandy areas around the island.