Barrage sur le Couesnon Guide
Barrage sur le Couesnon: Taming the Tides, Restoring the Bay Guide
Discover the Barrage sur le Couesnon (Couesnon Dam), a modern engineering marvel designed to restore the maritime character of Mont-Saint-Michel. This impressive structure, located on the Couesnon River, plays a crucial role in reducing silt buildup around the Mont, allowing the sea to once again surround the island during high tides. It's a testament to human ingenuity and a vital component in preserving the beauty and historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Historically, the Couesnon River deposited large amounts of silt into the bay, gradually transforming Mont-Saint-Michel into a landlocked island. The dam was constructed to combat this silting process by regulating the flow of the river and flushing sediment out to sea. This allows the tides to once again flow freely around the Mont, recreating the dramatic landscape that has captivated visitors for centuries. The project represents a significant investment in the long-term preservation of this iconic landmark. Visitors can walk along the dam and observe its operation. Informative displays explain the dam's purpose and the science behind its design. The views from the dam are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Mont-Saint-Michel and the surrounding bay. It's a great spot for taking photos and appreciating the scale of the engineering project. While not as historically rich as the abbey itself, the dam provides a fascinating insight into the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve Mont-Saint-Michel for future generations.
Transportation
From the mainland parking areas, take the free shuttle bus (navette) towards Mont-Saint-Michel. The shuttle will drop you off near the entrance to the Mont. The Barrage sur le Couesnon is located a short walk from the shuttle drop-off point, along the path leading towards the Mont. Follow the signs.