On the northwestern tip of Europe and England’s rugged coastline of Cornwall sits St Michael’s Mount. This island, with its medieval castle, village and history of legend and folklore, is a place that can transport visitors to a different world. So let’s start exploring St. Michael’s Mount.
History
St. Michael’s Mount is located on a rocky island off the Marazion coast. It is said to be named after the Archangel St. Michael, who famously appeared to fishermen in ancient times. This mythical story adds to every aspect of the mountain and its beauty.
The story of this mountain is related to that of its counterpart Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France. Both sites were originally dedicated to the Archangel Michael. St. Michael’s Mount served as a sister monastery to its French counterpart in medieval times.
In the 12th century, the hill became a church, founded by the Benedictine monks of Mont-Saint-Michel. It has evolved from a place of religious devotion to a fortified fortress over the centuries and has seen conflict through various times in English history.
St Michael’s Mount was caught up in Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries and confiscated by the Crown, and it then changed owners. Belonging first to various noble families and later becoming the private residence of the St Aubyn family, who still own it today.
Today, St Michael’s Mount is open to the public, offering a glimpse into its multifaceted past with guided tours of its castle, gardens and village.
Walking across the old halls of the castle, you can almost feel the weight of its history. From regal state rooms to the serf’s chambers, every room spells the story of life in the old times. Make sure you go to the top of the castle to enjoy the magnificent views of the nearest coastline. As its often possible, you can see for miles in any direction on a clear day. You can purchase tickets for visiting the castle using this link.
Traveling to St. Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is separated from the mainland by a causeway. At low tide, it’s possible to walk across the causeway. On foot, you gain a new perspective of the mount looming above. There’s no land access to the mount during high tide, and you shouldn’t attempt to walk the causeway at that time as it is submerged.
During high tide, it is best to travel by boat, especially for the scenic views of the coast stretching across the bay. There are regular ferry services from Marazion beach to the mount itself. The cruise across the bay is short but fun. The journey adds to the charm of this lovely place.
You can also go for a guided kayak trip if you are looking for something adventurous. It offers an adrenaline-fuelled and intimate view of the coastline of the mount, and the marine life that calls it home.
Exploring the Island
As you approach the island, the first thing you see is a large medieval castle. There is a tower at the top of this hill. Carved over hundreds of years, the castle is a monument of architectural genius and a testament to the island’s enduring pride.
A picturesque village welcomes visitors upon arrival on the island. The village has an ancient charm, complete with lovely cottages and narrow cobbled streets. The beauty of this peaceful place is a breeze to soak up.
It is populated by a few residents who have made their home in the maze of cobbled steep streets and old buildings. Here the visitors can easily imagine being transported back through the centuries to the medieval past. Most of the cottages seem to belong to that time. In terms of architecture, the blend of materials and colors appears to have been influenced by many of the various people who once traversed the mount. Exploring the village, visitors will encounter cosy shops, cafes and galleries. Shelves inside these stores are stocked with local crafts and artisan products that make great souvenirs.
The top feature in the village is the ancient church of St Michaels, dating from the 12th century. That stands as a reminder of the faith and remains in place throughout all these years. It is a quiet space for praying and reflection.
Strolling along the island’s paths, one can easily let loose the mundane activities of the modern world. This is because St. Michael’s Mount offers peace within its hidden oasis. No matter if you’re exploring St. Michael’s Mount’s subtropical gardens, relaxing on the beach or just taking it all in, this place is very unique.
But as the day comes to an end and you leave St. Michael’s Mount, you know you’ll always miss this kind of place. But just before you say your final goodbye and the castle disappears into the sunset, you realize that you have obtained the most precious memories.
