CarFree Island Escapes
It’s time to ditch the car and escape the hassles of driving, parking and navigating unfamiliar roads. Choose one of these picturesque islands where you can enjoy the slow pace and pedal, paddle, stroll or just relax and soak in the scenery.
Located on France’s northwest coast, Mont St. Michel appears to rise from the surrounding tide flats. First used as a military stronghold, it was later home to a monastery in the 8th century. The Romanesque abbey at the top of the island, built in the 11th century, eventually became an important destination for Catholic pilgrims. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Mont St. Michel is surrounded by dangerous quicksand and rapidly rising tides. Parking is available at the base, but then you must climb, like thousands of pilgrims before you, to the top. Though crowded during the day, most tour buses depart by nightfall, leaving the island and its overnight guests to reflect in peace.
Slide show text by Sonja Groset, Bing Travel photo editing by Connie Ricca.
