Where are the best Mont Saint Michel Photo spots to capture the memorable moments of this holy island and now a UNESCO world heritage site? If you have the answer, you will surely save time and energy during the visit.
Mont Saint Michel appears like a mirage in the distance. On a clear day, it is possible to get magnificent sunset views. Inside its medieval walls, the cobbled-stone streets, stone stairs connecting shops and restaurants are typical scenes. And when the night arrives, the dimly lit old buildings impose a mysterious village scene.
During the two-week road trip to Brittany, our family spent nearly two days exploring the island of Mont Saint Michel. We discovered several Mont Saint Michel photo spots that everyone could easily reach in a short time.
Mont Saint Michel Photo Spots
From all following Mont Saint Michel Photo Spots, I have successfully made some nice pictures, though the weather was not so pleasant during our stays.
- On top of the Dam (Barrage Du Mont St. Michel)
- At the shuttle bus stop in front of the entrance
- From the terrace of the Abbey’s entrance
- The rooftop of the North Tower from the Ramparts (Tour Du Nord)
- Everywhere on the old walls at the east side
- Near the shop near Les Lutins at Grand Rue
We went from one spot to the other, and have captured the views of Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, Mont Saint-Michel village, and the Normandy landscape.
On top of the Dam (Barrage Du Mont St. Michel)
The shuttle bus from the public parking area also stops near the dam. So, it is convenient to get off there and catch the next shuttle bus after visiting the dam. We stayed at the Mercure hotel, so it was just a short walk for us to the dam Barrage Du Mont St. Michel.
When you stand on top of the dam, Mont St- Michel looks like a floating castle on the sea during the high tides. Against the clear sky, you can take a picture with a flock of birds flying by Mont St. Michel.
At the shuttle bus stop in front of the entrance
Near the shuttle bus stops in front of the castle is one of the Mont St. Michel photo spots. There, the view includes the entire castle and its ramparts. When it gets dark, the castle is illuminated. It is also possible to take pictures of the illuminated scene with proper photo equipment.
From the terrace at the entrance of the Abbey
The terrace in front of the Mont Saint Michel Abbey’s entrance is one of the best Mont Saint Michel photo spots. It offers spectacular views of the bay and the Atlantic ocean. The Abbey’s exit is on the other side. Therefore, do not miss out on this photo spot. Take some photos first before you enter the Abbey.
On a cloudy day, it is possible to take some challenging photos from the terrace.
The rooftop of the North Tower from the Ramparts (Tour Du Nord)
The North Tower is part of the ramparts. That is the best place to capture the Normandy landscape and watch the people walking on the bay in the low tides. It is also the sunset spot, a magical place to admire nature. The best time is in the late afternoon when you can enjoy the views of the bay and wait for the sunset.
Everywhere on the old walls at the east side
The old walls (ramparts) from the North Tower extend to the south. You can still take photos of the Normandy coast and the bay views. Compared to the main streets, the walkway on the old walls is less crowded. You have a good chance to capture the views of the medieval walls, the old buildings, and the bay.
On a cloudy or stormy day, it is possible to take photos with dramatic effect.
Near the shop Les Lutins at Grand Rue
Walking along the main street Grand Rue, it is nearly impossible to picture the street scenes with a usual camera. The best spot to take photos of the street scene is from the walls near the shop Les Lutins. The view includes several timbered houses as well.
You will find the stairs going down the Grand Rue. That is also the best place to take photos of the entrance gate.
From the wall near the shop of Les Lutins is the perfect place to take photos during the day. But when it gets dark, you could also take some pictures of the dimly lit buildings.
Travel tips for visiting all Mont Saint Michel Photo Spots
Stay at least one night near the island
It is a good idea to stay one night near the island and allow yourself to have enough time to take photos. We stayed in Mercure and are satisfied with the location and service. The hotel has a large complex, and the shuttle bus stop is just next to its entrance.
How to get there
Shuttle bus “Le Passeur” from the new public parking place take everyone to Mont Saint-Michel, about 450 meters from the ramparts. Access to the shuttle bus is free. Travelers can use the following transportation to the area:
- By plane: Rennes Airport is the closest airport to Mont Saint Michel,
- From Paris-CDG, direct flights from Air France run every day.
- By train/bus: The Gare de Pontorson is the closest to Mont Saint-Michel.
- From the station, Paris Montparnasse, take the TGV to Rennes and then TER trains to the Gare de Pontorson, where a direct shuttle will take you to Mont Saint-Michel. Please visit the SNCF website for further information.
- By car: Follow A11 to Chartres – Le Mans – Laval. Then exit towards Fougères and head in the direction of Mont Saint-Michel. Or follow A13 to Rouen, then Caen, and A84 to Mont Saint-Michel. The new parking lot at Mont Saint Michel is open all year. To check the complete price list, please visit the Mont Saint-Michel website.
