There’s something truly magical about exploring new places with your little ones. Our recent family trip to France included a stop at Mont Saint-Michel, the captivating island community in Normandy. With its narrow streets, historic charm, and the majestic abbey perched atop the rocky island had us all amazed.
Arrival at Mont Saint-Michel
As we approached the island, the excitement in the air was palpable. The sight of Mont Saint-Michel rising above the horizon had the kids glued to the windows, their faces filled with wonder. We chose to stay on the island for a night. We parked in the lot that was designated for guests staying on the island. From there we carried our bags and jumped onto a shuttle, which took us across the bridge to the entrance. There was a fair amount of walking to get from our car to the island, but we packed light to make it as easy as possible. Accommodations were limited, but La Mère Poulard, nestled right at the heart of this medieval paradise, was a perfect fit for our family.
Stepping into La Mère Poulard felt like stepping back in time. The inn, steeped in history, exuded a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our room, a short flight up the stairs, boasted a view of the cobblestone streets. It was cozy and inviting. The kids were thrilled to open the windows wide and explore the nooks and crannies of our room, discovering its unique charm.
The Quest for Family-Friendly Eateries
I wish we had packed more snacks. Although there were quite a few restaurants nestled along the streets, they were not all open and we struggled to find places to eat dinner and breakfast. After a few attempts at other establishments, we ended up having a delicious dinner at Les Terrasses de la Baie. The kids enjoyed the chicken nuggets while we took in the beautiful view and a glass of wine.
Exploring Mont Saint-Michel with Kids
With the abbey looming above, we set out to explore the island. Since we were visiting in June, the sun was bright well beyond dinner and we took advantage of the low crowds. 
The narrow streets and secret paths were a delight for the kids. Every moment was filled with adventure and discovery. Climbing up the cobblestone paths to reach the abbey was a bit of a challenge, but the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape made it all worth it.
The Ever Changing Tide
One of the most mesmerizing experiences during our visit to Mont Saint-Michel was when we ventured out onto the vast expanse of sand unveiled by the receding tide. As the waters retreated, revealing the stunning bay, it felt like a secret world emerging right before our eyes. 
The kids, with their shoes off, couldn’t contain their excitement as they laughed and dashed across the wet sand, leaving imprints behind. It was such a simple, yet fantastic moment on our adventure.
Our visit to Mont Saint-Michel will forever hold a special place in our family’s memory book. The historic allure of the island and the warm hospitality of our accommodation made this trip an absolute delight. For families seeking a blend of history, adventure, and a cozy stay, Mont Saint-Michel and La Mère Poulard offer an unforgettable experience. Until our next adventure, Mont Saint-Michel will remain a cherished chapter in our family’s travel story.
