Registered as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1979, the bay of the Mont Saint Michel forms a natural border between Brittany and Normandy. This sumptuous setting harbours the “wonderful pyramid”, dear to the heart of Victor Hugo, of which it is now an indissociable part adding to the development of the site. Originally, there was just a granitic hill towering at a height of 80 meters, called the Mont Tombe. This monument, that has been built in parts with giant blocs of granite brought forwards from the Chausey islands, is indisputably an architectural feat. And the surrounding bay  is not less than a natural masterpiece. The council of Mont Saint Michel lies in Normandy, but the bay sprawls out to Cancale. The river of Couesnon draws the border line between Brittany and Normandy. On days with clear weather conditions, the outlines of the Mont are visible from far away, an image that has attained worldwide fame.
Standing on top of the hill, in the abbey which is a perfect blend of flamboyant Gothic and Roman arts, you'll enjoy a gorgeous panorama over the bay, changing according to the weather and tides, steadily washing over and  then uncovering the shore. Maritime landscapes made of dunes and herbs go along with bocage landscapes.  When the sea grows to high tide, a bore (25 km wide wave) comes crashing into the bay between the peaks of Cancale and Granville “at the speed of a galoping horse”. In addition to the quicksand, it makes the bay a particularly dangerous place. Yet the bay presents a great interest, for being subject to the highest tides in Europe. For a visit in complete safety, it is reasonable to call on a registered guide.
Numerous hiking-tours are possible in the surroundings, offering just as many view points onto the Mont. Diverse aspects have destined it to be an exceptional bird sanctuary, especially in matters of nesting: the distinctive characteristics of the bay, the wealth of its various environments, marshes and salt meadows, as well as its position on the atlantic migration line. It is also an important passage for salmon and a favorite spot for flat fish of all sorts.
In order to fight back the natural silting-up that threatens the Mont Saint Michel, a remediation program has been launched, including the construction of a new barrage across the Couesnon river.
The project, that aims to regain the former maritime aspect of the Mont by demolishing the parking lots and the dike-road, should help to manage the crowds of tourists.
In the next couple of years, visitors will find access to the Mont by crossing a quiet footbridge.
So then the Mont Saint Michel shall rise again, as a dreamlike apparition, rid of the herds of noisy cars.