Mont Saint Michel, Normandy’s Gem

…and one of the most important places of medieval pilgrimage. It’s been on my bucket list for years but I knew little about this 10th century abbey until this visit. Warning to the traveler not ready for a stairmaster challenge, this is a bit of a hike to reach the most spectacular and expansive views but if you take your time, it’s certainly navigable and so very, very worth it. On this morning, this still-inhabited home for the ten remaining Benedictine monks along with seven very busy nuns, we had sunny, pleasant weather. Take your time on the descent as well as there are wonderful shops tucked into the winding route to the below. The closest train station is Pontorson and it’s an easy trip from Paris. Once at the site, just outside the tourist information center, you can access the free shuttle which runs from 7:30am to midnight and only takes about 15 minutes. Allow 3-4 hours for your visit and include time for cafe au lait and a croissant.