Mont St Michel

You might toss the walled port of St Malo into the mix of things you're considering. Honfleur is closer than Rouen. I have no idea how to connect any of the dots with public transportation, but Pontorsson would probably be the easiest. For planning purposes, you don't need more than a couple of hours, max, on the mont.

This is a cliche around here, but count me among those who think it's best to visit MSM overnight. It's just too crowded during the day. Combine that with a long train/bus ride to and from, and it's just not a good day.

If you are on a budget that might mean Pontorsson, but the idea is to be able to wander in the late afternoon, at night, and in the morning. Then take off before the tour buses arrive.

Adam is correct.

Here's the deal; visit mid-day and you likely impression of the place will be "interesting & quirky" at best or "a madhouse and not worth the effort" at worst.

Visit overnight, either on the rock or just across from it, and your impression of the place will be "magical" at best or "interesting & quirky" at worst.

Your decision is all about giving yourself the best chance of creating a wonderful memory.

Have you thoroughly researched the train and bus schedules that go to MSM? I want to be sure you understand the intricacies of your endeavor 8^O . Timing is everything...

Now, if you're still going (!) I'd also recommend staying the night. But, not on the island, but at the other end of the causeway (Google for hotels). MUCH cheaper, AND you get to see the Mont!

If you make it a daytrip, you'll want to research the back ways up to the top; don't go with everyone else unless you really, really like crowds. (If I remember later, I'll look for my MSM info...)

I loved the crowds at MSM. They were the entertainment. Men from all over the world standing in the streets as their wives shopped .Tourists lugging heavy suitcases up the steep streets to their hotels. The hustle and bussel it was great, I really mean it. Someone was on here a while back thought it was a waste of time, wow she was wrong. And that churchy thing at the top of the hill was cool too. I hope your plans work out, MSM is too good to miss.

Thanks, David, for the farm house suggestion. I'll be sure to repost with more information on these places after our visit.

Could anyone elaborate on places to stay on the MSM causeway entrance? After a quick visit to the office de tourisme, I see about 8 listings from 2-4 stars. We prefer to spend as much time out of the room exploring the city. We just would like a clean place for one night. Any hotel suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Also, does anyone know if there is a public bus or shuttle from the Pontorson train station to the causeway? I'll double check this board for comments.

Thanks travel friends :-)

if you have a car then you have a lot more choices. the main road comes in MSM then it'll turn right along the coast after the bridge leading to MSM. Just as you turn right, you'll see some farm houses on your right. Folks here rent cheaper, good breakfast, and a view of MSM. Without a car it'd be a long walk.

My husband and I went to MSM in August 2009 using public transportation. We purchased a pass that covered both train and bus in the region. It saved us money over single tickets and was convenient as it covered all of our transportation for two days, including unlimited trips across the causeway. The website is www.lignebaie.fr Check the schedules carefully as some of the choices are limited, but it is very doable. I agree that seeing the abbey at night is nice, but if you're doing it as a day trip, I recommend staying in St. Malo.