4. Mont Saint Michel

Mont St Michel was conceived in the year 708 when the archangel Michael reportedly appeared in a dream of Bishop Saint Aubert and asked him to build a sanctuary in his name. The castle that exists now was developed over centuries, acting as a destination for pilgrims to connect with their dead ancestors, as a prison during the 100 years war, and now as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located in the Normandy region of France, the site is a tidal island - during high tide it is completely surrounded by water, and at low tide considered more of a peninsula of mud and quicksand. With a clear 360° view, it was considered fairly impenetrable by would-be attackers. There are about 25 residents there now.

We got up early and enjoyed the 3km walk on the access boardwalk plus our stroll through the grounds before it got really crowded. Completely unbeknownst to us, the site was scheduled to host a torch lighting ceremony for the upcoming Olympic games later that afternoon. This attracted many local schoolchildren who participated in various sporting events at the venue throughout the day.Read more