Kazakh travel blogger Dastan Mukhamedrakhim, following his victory at the international WIBA Awards, traveled to one of France's most famous sites Mont-Saint-Michel. The medieval island attracts millions of tourists annually and is considered one of the country's primary landmarks, El.kz reports.
In May 2026, the blogger filmed a new video at the location. The trip took place after the awards ceremony in Cannes, where Dastan was named the world's best travel influencer.
The island that diisappears into the sea
Mont-Saint-Michel is located in northwestern France, on the border of Normandy and Brittany. From a distance, it resembles a set for a historical film or a fairytale castle rising directly out of the water.
The island's main feature is tied to the tides. During low tide, the sea recedes for many kilometers, revealing a sandy plain surrounding the rock. A few hours later, the water returns, once again transforming Mont-Saint-Michel into a maritime fortress.
The abbey above the clouds
At the summit of the granite rock stands the famous Gothic-style abbey. Its spire is crowned with a golden statue of the Archangel Michael, for whom the island is named.
The structures are arranged in a cascade. At the base lie narrow medieval streets, residential houses, and small shops. Higher up are the monastic quarters and halls, and at the very peak sits the monastery complex itself.
The rock reaches a height of about eighty meters, making the abbey visible from many kilometers away.
A history spanning over a thousand years
According to legend, the history of Mont-Saint-Michel began in the year 708. The Archangel Michael appeared to Bishop Aubert and commanded him to build a church on the rock.
Over time, a settlement grew around the sanctuary, evolving into one of the largest religious centers of medieval Europe. During the Hundred Years' War, the English repeatedly attempted to capture the island, but the fortress held firm.
After the French Revolution, the monastery was used as a prison for political prisoners. Only decades later was the historical complex restored and recognized once again as a cultural heritage site.
France’s 2nd most popular destination
After Paris, Mont-Saint-Michel is considered one of the most visited tourist sites in the country. Travelers from all over the world come here every year.
Despite the massive flow of tourists, the island remains a living settlement. A small number of permanent residents live there, and services continue to be held in the abbey.
The narrow stone streets, ancient walls, and panoramic views of the ocean create an atmosphere that often leads Mont-Saint-Michel to be called the most beautiful island in France.
