● Be captivated by the mythical city of Saint Malo, walking through its charming cobbled streets, ascending the ramparts for panoramic views, and enjoying local delicacies like Kouign-amann.
● Discover the majestic Benedictine Abbey at Mont Saint Michel, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be captivated by its awe-inspiring architecture set amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.
● Optionally, indulge in an oyster tasting at the picturesque fishing village of Cancale, renowned for its Cancale oysters, prized for their unique flavor and texture.
Begin your full day private tour with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Bayeux. Your first stop will be the mythical city of Saint Malo amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Emerald Coast. Wander through the citadel's charming cobbled streets, ascend the ramparts for panoramic views of the beaches and harbor, and explore the picturesque Sillon promenade, home to the Saint-Malo flotilla. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local butter cakes: Kouign-amann.
If the tides permit, venture to Grand Bé, a tidal island at the mouth of the Rance River, accessible from Bon-Secours Beach during low tide. Explore the island's ancient fort remains and pay homage to François-René, Vicomte de Chateaubriand, the renowned French writer buried there.
Optionally, on your way to Mont Saint Michel, stop by the captivating town of Cancale along the Brittany Coast. This picturesque fishing village is renowned for its Cancale oysters, prized for their firm, white flesh and reminiscent hazelnut taste. Indulge in an oyster tasting at the Oyster Market of Cancale, open daily from morning until 5:30 PM.
Prior to reaching Mont Saint Michel, your driver-guide will suggest the ideal spot for you to enjoy a delightful lunch.
As you near the imposing Mont Saint Michel, enveloped in mystery by shifting sands, sudden mists, galloping tides, and the echoing laughter of circling seagulls, you'll feel the weight of its vast wilderness.
Legend has it that before the 8th century, Mont Saint Michel was known as Mont Tombe, suggesting its past as a graveyard. In 708, Bishop Aubert of Avranches was visited by the Archangel Michael, who instructed him to build a church on the rocky islet. With the help of Italian architect William de Volpiano, the Abbey and Romanesque church were completed in 1084.
Begin your exploration with your guide at the UNESCO-designated Benedictine Abbey, where you'll uncover crypts and admire foundational structures like the spiritual crypt of Notre Dame des Trente Cierges and the subterranean chapel of Notre Dame sous Terre. On the northern side, known as 'The Marvel,' discover the Knights' Room, Gothic Hosts' Room, cloister, and refectory, offering insights into the abbey's history and architecture.
By the end of your tour you will be driven back to your place of stay in Bayeux.
*Please be aware that you have the option to replace Saint Malo with Cancale. Alternatively, you may choose to visit both stops, Saint Malo and Cancale, which will extend the tour slightly and may result in an additional fee depending on the season.
*Please note that our drivers adapt dynamically to your preferences and pace throughout the tour.
*In Normandy, our tours come with the services of a driver-guide. If you require an additional English-speaking licensed guide alongside the driver, please inform us in advance.
Included
● English speaking driver-guide
● Mercedes vehicle or equivalent
Not Included
● Lunch
● Gratuity to the driver-guide
● Skip-the-line tickets to Mont Saint-Michel are to be included upon request
● Entrance tickets for any other activity are to be paid on-site or to be included upon request