August 15: Magical Mont Saint Michel
I don’t usually have breakfast for dinner. But I couldn’t resist the opportunity to try one of La Mere Poulard’s famous truffle – covered fluffy omelets on the rocky islet of Mont Saint Michel this evening. There is a reason why this magical village is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
Today’s ride was primarily about making it north to the UNESCO world heritage site of Mont Saint Michel. Located between Normandy and Brittany, this gothic style Benedictine abbey and the village that grew up around it within its walls are considered a “wonder of the west.” The site is striking, both because of its high walls and soaring church spire as well as for its unique natural setting.
Perched amid a vast sandbank, the village appears to rise from the ocean. As I rode my bike north towards the location, I was treated to a variety of spectacular views of the village jutting up into the sky over fields of grass, crops of corn, and then the sandy banks of the bay itself.
Unauthorized motorists are not allowed to ride to the island itself, so I parked my bike in a designated area and took a short shuttle ride over to visit the village. Once there I wandered the cobblestone streets looking at the little shops and restaurants, climbed up the steps to explore the stone ramparts, and gazed out at the views of the sea and the beach.
As it was dinner time and I was starving, I decided to treat myself to a famous omelet from LA Mere Poulard before leaving the island. The omelets are made by whisking eggs in hand made copper bowls and then cooking them over an open fire. They are served with shaved truffles and truffle oil and accompanied by a small pan of fried bacon and potatoes.
Perhaps it was because I was so hungry, but the “breakfast for dinner” really hit the spot. The omelet was extremely fluffy and reminded me of the souffles my mom made for me as a child – there was a thin crust on one side and rather foamy egg underneath. The fact it was cooked in butter really added a lot of flavor as did the oil that I generously applied.
After polishing off every bite of the savory bacon and potatoes, I sat for awhile enjoying the view of the village streets from my seat by the window. What an enchanting place to visit!
