Bay of Mont Saint Michel Itinerary
The Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip starts in Vitre, France and ends in Saint Malo, France. This 197km journey is best enjoyed over two days, allowing travelers to take in the sights and sounds of the French countryside. Along the route, travelers can explore the ancient city of Combourg, the iconic Mont Saint Michel, and the charming fishing village of Cancale. All of these locations offer a variety of activities, from exploring historical sites to sampling local cuisine. The best time of year to take this road trip is from April to October. During this time, travelers can expect to encounter good road conditions, although some of the roads may be narrow and curvy.
This road trip provides an unforgettable experience, suitable for all kinds of drivers, and can be completed on a moderate budget. Those who undertake this journey will be rewarded with stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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number of days
197 km
route length
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budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Vitre
Distance 197 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: modest
51.1 kWh
Airports
LVA
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RNS
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Vitre is a charming town located in the Ille-et-Vilaine department of France. It is the ideal starting point for the Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip, as it lies just 43 miles away from the famous bay. The town has a rich history, with the first record of its existence dating back to 1020. Vitre is renowned for its historic center and the surrounding countryside, offering wonderful views.
Visitors to Vitre should not miss the Château de Vitré, a 12th century castle and one of the most important historical monuments in the region. The town also has several churches and monuments of interest, such as the Church of Saint-Martin and the Church of Saint-Germain-de-Vitré. A stroll through the cobbled streets, lined with colorful houses and shops, will take you back in time.
The closest international airport to Vitre is Rennes Airport (RNS), located just 32 miles away. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip from here.
Vitre is a great place to start your Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip, offering plenty of interesting sights to explore and a wealth of history.
1
Vitre
- Combourg
Distance 76 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
19.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 77km journey starting in Vitré, France and ending in Combourg. On the way, you will pass through Fougeres, a city known for its medieval architecture and rich history. Take your time to explore the cobbled streets and admire the ancient churches and monuments. Keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road, as well as the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
When in Fougeres, make sure to visit the Château de Fougeres, a stunning castle that dates back to the 11th century. You should also explore the city’s old town, which is full of interesting shops and cafés. After Fougeres, the road will take you to Combourg, a charming lakeside town. Here, you can take a stroll around the lake, visit the local church, and admire the stunning views of the countryside.
Remember, there are plenty of other attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Combourg - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.all-free-photos.com
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2
Combourg
- Mont Saint Michel
Distance 59 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: fast
17.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Combourg, France! This 59 km journey will take you through the charming town of Dol de Bretagne and end at the majestic Mont Saint Michel. Along the way, you'll be able to take in all the sights and sounds of the French countryside. Be sure to take in the historical sites, such as the Château de Combourg, and the scenic roads that wind through the countryside. Keep in mind that some sections of the road are quite narrow, so be sure to drive safely and enjoy the view. Once you arrive at Mont Saint Michel, you'll be able to explore the cobbled streets and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding bay. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Mont Saint Michel - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Mont Saint Michel
- Cancale
Distance 39 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
10.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable 39km journey from Mont Saint Michel to Cancale! This route will take you less than an hour to complete and will be an amazing experience. Along the way, you will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the French countryside. As you drive, keep an eye out for historical sites and beautiful roads that will make your journey even more memorable. Be aware that some sections of the road will be narrow, so please drive carefully. Once you arrive in Cancale, you will be able to explore the small fishing village and its many seafood restaurants. Don't forget to take a stroll along the beach and take in the stunning views of the bay. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cancale - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - en.wikipedia.org
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4
Cancale
- Saint Malo
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: slow
5.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Cancale, France, and take the 22 km drive to Saint Malo. You'll be amazed by the stunning views of the French countryside, and you'll be able to explore the historical sites and attractions along the way. The winding roads will take you through picturesque villages and narrow roads, and you'll be able to take in the sights of the beautiful landscape. Make sure to take your time to explore the small towns and take in the breathtaking views. Don't forget to visit the Mont Saint Michel, a stunning island abbey, and the Château de Saint-Malo, a medieval castle. You'll be able to take in the historical and cultural significance of these sites. The drive will take you less than an hour, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an amazing road trip experience!
Saint Malo - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - lt.m.wikipedia.org
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Saint Malo
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At the end of your "Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip" lies the beautiful city of Saint Malo, France. Here, you can explore the old walls, beaches, and forts that make this city unique. You can start your exploration by visiting the historic walls, which were originally built in the 12th century. From here, you will get a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area.
The beaches of Saint Malo are also a must-see. With golden sands and clear waters, they are perfect for relaxing and swimming. You can also take a stroll by the sea and observe the fishermen coming in with their fresh catches.
If you’re looking for something more exciting, then a visit to Fort National, the fortification built in 1689, is a must. Its strategic position makes it a great spot to watch the boats coming in and out of the harbor.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS).
Saint Malo is an amazing place to end your "Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip" with plenty of activities and sights to explore. With its ancient walls, golden beaches, and forts, you’ll be sure to have a memorable time in this beautiful city.
Bay of Mont Saint Michel at a glance
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Start:
Vitre
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End:
Saint Malo
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Distance:
197 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Laval-Entrammes Airport (LVA),
Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip for an enthralling 197km adventure from Vitre to Saint Malo, France. This two-day journey not only showcases the beauty of the French countryside but also leads you through a tapestry of historical landmarks and scenic vistas.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The route is dotted with captivating stops, including the historic city of Combourg, famed for its romantic Château de Combourg, where the French writer Chateaubriand spent part of his childhood. The iconic Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rises majestically from the sea, offering a glimpse into medieval life and stunning Norman architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to walk along the causeway or tide-permitting, across the silken sands to reach this island commune. In Cancale, regarded as the oyster capital of France, you can indulge in the freshest seafood with a view of the emerald coast.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal period for this Road Trip spans from April to October. During these months, you'll find the weather inviting and the landscape at its most vibrant. This timeframe also corresponds with Mont Saint Michel's tidal movements, allowing you to witness the spectacular phenomenon where the Mont becomes an island at high tide.
Potential Risks:
Vigilance is key on this journey, as you'll encounter narrow, winding Roads that require careful navigation. Additionally, it's essential to acquaint yourself with French driving laws and be prepared for any seasonal weather patterns that could impact Road conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
This drive is suitable for a wide range of travelers and can be comfortably completed on a moderate budget. The route offers a diverse array of experiences, from the chance to traverse lush landscapes and explore rich cultural heritage sites to savoring delectable French cuisine.
Interesting Fact:
Mont Saint Michel has a remarkable tidal range, and during spring tides, the difference between high and low tide can exceed 14 meters, making it one of the greatest tidal ranges in Europe.
A good choice for:
The Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip is more than a drive—it's a journey through the heart of French history and culture. It's an opportunity to forge unforgettable memories while delving into some of France's most valued and timeless attractions.