Barrage sur le Couesnon Guide
Barrage sur le Couesnon: Taming the Tides of Mont-Saint-Michel Guide
Discover the Barrage sur le Couesnon, a modern marvel of engineering designed to manage the powerful tides that surround Mont-Saint-Michel. This dam, located on the Couesnon River, plays a crucial role in preserving the island's maritime character and preventing it from becoming permanently connected to the mainland. It's a fascinating example of how human ingenuity can work in harmony with nature to protect a precious historical site. Before the construction of the dam, Mont-Saint-Michel was gradually becoming silted up due to the accumulation of sediment carried by the Couesnon River. This threatened to transform the island into a landlocked hill. The dam was built to restore the island's maritime character by allowing the tides to naturally scour the bay and remove the accumulated sediment. It works by releasing water at strategic times, creating a powerful current that flushes the bay. While the dam itself isn't a traditional tourist attraction, it offers a unique perspective on Mont-Saint-Michel and the surrounding bay. Take a walk along the dam's pathway for panoramic views of the island, the river, and the vast expanse of the bay. Observe the ebb and flow of the tides and appreciate the power of nature. It's a great spot for photography and a chance to learn about the environmental challenges facing Mont-Saint-Michel.
Transportation
From the shuttle bus drop-off point, follow the signs towards the Barrage sur le Couesnon. It's located a short walk away, along a designated pathway. The walk offers scenic views of Mont-Saint-Michel.