What happened to day 5, you ask? The majority of it was spent on the road and unsuccessfully trying to pick up the rental car, so I thought I'd spare you the details. Don't get me wrong--driving through the French countryside is gorgeous! It's just that frazzled Jinah pajamas face is not blogworthy.
As the most seasoned traveler, and the only one of the travel party who had studied French culture and geography, I convinced my sisters we needed to visit Normandy. And while traveling the country by rail is both economical and efficient, the logistics of organizing around train timetables, bus schedules, high tide, and the many valises of three young girls, I decided driving would be a nice adventure.
So neither of my sisters really knew what to expect when I announced we would be visiting the Mont St. Michel. But when I spotted the tidal island in the distance, everyone got quickly excited.
As the most seasoned traveler, and the only one of the travel party who had studied French culture and geography, I convinced my sisters we needed to visit Normandy. And while traveling the country by rail is both economical and efficient, the logistics of organizing around train timetables, bus schedules, high tide, and the many valises of three young girls, I decided driving would be a nice adventure.
So neither of my sisters really knew what to expect when I announced we would be visiting the Mont St. Michel. But when I spotted the tidal island in the distance, everyone got quickly excited.
You really can't tell what you're getting yourself into from so far away. You drive through quite a bit of farmland and rural pastures along the way, and all of a sudden there is this large, imposing marvel.
Quick history lesson: The Mont St. Michel, located near Avranches in Normandy, is a settlement founded on a large rock. Existing since medieval times, the island has been both a religious and militaristic stronghold with cross cultural ties. Now it is considered one of the wonders of the world and attracts a constant stream of tourists to view the island, the coastal flats, and the abbey, which still stands.
At high tides, the island is surrounded by water. In theory this is incredible, in reality, it gets a little scary when you're considering where to park your vehicle.
There was no significant difference in tides on the day we visited.
Jeanie couldn't resist remarking that the narrow winding streets behind the fortified walls reminded her of Diagon Alley.
When the tide is low, you can walk across the wet sands. Though I knew there was no danger that day, I couldn't help but feel terrified for these people.
Castles and turrets and high princess towers are my favorite.
I couldn't resist dressing for the occasion. I picked up this skirt before leaving the States and thought it would be perfect for visiting an island! Once again, I picked a pair of comfortable shoes. Seriously, cobblestones are not to be messed with!
Outfit details:
- J. Crew Vintage Bateau top (similar here and here)
- Anthropologie Sailboat skirt
- Bensimon Laceup Sneaker in navy
- Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini in Dark Brown
I'll be back later today with something extra special! Thanks for sharing in my French adventure!
