It looks straight out of a fantasy film – as if dragons might swoop down as you enter. But you haven't stepped into a parallel universe, this is the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel. This astounding World Heritage Site lies just off the windswept coast of Normandy. Explore 20 rooms, stunning gardens, and get panoramic views from this famous medieval fortress.

Le Mont Saint-Michel is a small island commune in Normandy, and the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel is most definitely its crowning glory, looming over the island like a big stone soldier as the waves crash against its rocky shores. The first worship of the Archangel Michel occurred here in 708 AD, making it a crucial medieval pilgrimage site.

In the 10th century, the Benedictine monks realized the island's importance and promptly set about building a proper abbey on it. In 1874, the abbey was listed as a historic monument – this was long after the monks had said their goodbyes in 1790. It draws just as many crowds today as it did hundreds of years ago thanks to its spectacular presence. With over 20 rooms and spires, and towers looming over the town below, there's plenty to explore. You can also join a guided group tour for free – just ask at the entrance when you arrive and you'll be allotted a timeslot.

Take time to watch the tide roll in and out. Le Mont Saint-Michel has Europe's highest tidal variations, swelling and dropping as much as 15 meters in merely six hours. Reaching the summit of the abbey will reward you with sublime panoramas and make you feel like the king of the castle!