Journaux de Voyage II: Normandy
After two super fun days in Paris, our journey led us to Normandy. In this region, history, nature, and architecture intertwine to create a grounding and awe-inspiring experience. This leg of the trip brought usto the walled city of Saint-Malo and the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, each offering unique stories and breathtaking views.
Saint-Malo is a city steeped in maritime history, once home to corsairs—privateers sanctioned by the French Crown to raid enemy ships. The towering granite walls of the old town, which encircle its cobbled streets, tell tales of resilience and adventure. As we walked along the ramparts, the views of the wintery cold waters and the scattered islets transported me to a time when Saint-Malo was a bustling port, brimming with explorers and merchants.
One of the interesting sights of Saint-Malo was viewing the magnificent Fort National, constructed in 1689 by Vauban, Louis XIV’s renowned military engineer. Positioned on a tidal island, the fort could only be reached during low tide, a feature that added to its mystique.
Inside the walls, the city offers charming streets lined with shops, crêperies, and cafés. We couldn’t resist indulging in a freshly made galette, a savoury buckwheat crêpe, paired with a glass of local bubbles and cyder—a quintessential Breton experience. The warmth of the locals and the authenticity of the city’s culture made it a place we will long remember.
The next morning we made our way to Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping into a dream. Rising dramatically from the tidal flats, this medieval abbey and village seem almost otherworldly, especially as the mist rolls in and the tides shift, isolating it from the mainland.
Mont Saint-Michel’s history is as fascinating as its architecture. Legend has it that in 708, the Archangel Michael appeared to Bishop Aubert of Avranches, instructing him to build an abbey atop the rocky island. Over the centuries, this vision took shape, evolving into the breathtaking structure we see today. The abbey’s construction, which spans Romanesque and Gothic styles, is a testament to human ambition and faith.
Climbing the winding streets lined with souvenir shops and tiny cafes, we eventually reached the abbey itself. The panoramic views from the top were nothing short of spectacular. Every moment felt like a gift - from the expansive tidal flats that seemed to stretch endlessly to the distant horizon, to the intricate details of the abbey’s architecture.
Inside the abbey, the sense of history was palpable. The towering columns of the nave, the serene cloisters, and the echoes of footsteps in the Grand Réfectoire (monks' dining room) transported me back in time. One of the most captivating features was the Wheel of the Monks, a massive wooden wheel that was used to haul supplies up the abbey using a sledge and a pulley system. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who inhabited this isolated marvel.
As I stood in the abbey’s gardens, overlooking the vast landscape, I couldn’t help but reflect on the duality of Mont Saint-Michel. It is both a sanctuary of peace and a beacon of human determination. The interplay of natural beauty and architectural grandeur creates a harmony that lingers in the soul long after you’ve left.
Normandy’s treasures—from the fortified charm of Saint-Malo to the awe-inspiring majesty of Mont Saint-Michel—offer more than just picturesque views. They are places that invite you to slow down and immerse yourself in their stories. Walking through these historic sites, I felt a deep connection to the past and a renewed sense of wonder.
This part of my journey reminded me that exploring the world is about more than just seeing new places. It’s about experiencing them—taking the time to listen to their histories, savour their flavours, and let their beauty inspire you. Normandy, with its blend of rugged landscapes and rich heritage, was a lesson in the transformative power of travel.
