Moulin de Moidrey
A beautifully restored 19th-century windmill offering panoramic views and a taste of local Normandy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mill is usually open
Moulin de Moidrey
Best Time
Mill is usually open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 19th-century windmill offering panoramic views and a taste of local Normandy.
"A charming windmill, a great addition to Mont-Saint-Michel, with lovely views and local flour!"
Combine with Mont-Saint-Michel
It's a quick, charming stop near Mont-Saint-Michel. Plan for about an hour! :world_map:
Check Opening Times
Interior access and shop hours vary. Best to confirm before you go. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Working Windmill
Interior of the mill
Witness a 19th-century windmill grinding grain, a rare and fascinating sight. Taste the history!
Panoramic Views
Top of the mill's hill
Enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside and Mont-Saint-Michel in the distance.
Local Produce Shop
Ground floor of the mill
Purchase freshly milled flour and other local delicacies. A taste of Normandy to take home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Mont-Saint-Michel
Check Operating Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Mont-Saint-Michel
It's a quick, charming stop near Mont-Saint-Michel. Plan for about an hour! :world_map:
Check Opening Times
Interior access and shop hours vary. Best to confirm before you go. :clock1:
Buy Fresh Flour
Delicious local flour milled on-site. Great souvenir! :baguette_bread:
Astrophotography Gem
Incredible views of the Milky Way on clear nights. :star2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Mont-Saint-Michel
It's a quick, charming stop near Mont-Saint-Michel. Plan for about an hour! :world_map:
Check Opening Times
Interior access and shop hours vary. Best to confirm before you go. :clock1:
Buy Fresh Flour
Delicious local flour milled on-site. Great souvenir! :baguette_bread:
Astrophotography Gem
Incredible views of the Milky Way on clear nights. :star2:
Free to Visit Exterior
Enjoy the views and exterior even if the mill is closed. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Moulin de Moidrey a charming and worthwhile detour, especially when combined with a trip to Mont-Saint-Michel. They appreciate the opportunity to see a working historical windmill, enjoy the scenic views, and purchase local produce. Some note that checking opening hours is essential for interior access.
"It was built in 1806. Near Mont Saint-Michel, the Moidrey mill, was not in operation for a long time and now is restored and working in full operation. there is the possibility of a private tour with the miller lasting 30 minutes. any recommendation to visit according to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey"
Krešimir L
"What a charming windmill to visit
Set in lush fields, on a gentle slope overlooking the landscape and Mt Saint Michel in the far distance."
Ken Ang
"This is quite a landmark over the surrounding landscape. There is a carpark but we actually walked from the local village. The windmill was open and inside there is a shop selling flour milled there along with other local produce. Lovely views, including of Mont St Michael and there are information panels too. Free to visit."
Elizabeth Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moulin de Moidrey is conveniently located just a short drive (about 5 minutes) from Mont-Saint-Michel. If you're driving, follow signs towards Pontorson and then Moidrey. Parking is available nearby. Some visitors also walk from the local village or even cycle from Mont-Saint-Michel, enjoying the scenic route.
Public transport options directly to Moulin de Moidrey are limited. It's best visited by car or as part of a guided tour that includes Mont-Saint-Michel. If you're on a budget and have time, consider the bus to Pontorson and then a taxi or a longer walk.
Yes, it's possible to walk to Moulin de Moidrey, especially if you are staying in the nearby village of Pontorson. The walk offers pleasant countryside views. It's a good option for those who enjoy a stroll and want to avoid parking hassles.
The most common and convenient way to visit Moulin de Moidrey is by car, as it allows flexibility. It's also an excellent addition to a day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel, easily fitting into a morning or afternoon itinerary.
Yes, there is a car park available near the windmill, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. The parking is generally free and convenient for accessing the mill and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The exterior of Moulin de Moidrey and its surrounding grounds are generally free to visit. If you wish to enter the mill, see it in operation, and visit the shop, there might be a small entry fee or donation requested, especially for guided tours.
The operating hours for the interior of Moulin de Moidrey can vary, especially outside of peak season. It's highly recommended to check their official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, you can often tour the inside of the windmill, especially when it's in operation. Private tours with the miller are sometimes available and can last around 30 minutes, offering a detailed look at its mechanics.
While the windmill structure is always visible, the interior access and shop are typically seasonal. It's most likely to be open during the spring and summer months, and potentially on weekends during other times of the year.
Keep an eye out for local events or special open days, particularly during the summer. These might offer unique experiences or extended hours. Checking local event listings is a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The best photo spots are from the gentle slope surrounding the mill, offering a full view of its structure and the landscape. For astrophotography, the open fields around the mill provide an unobstructed view of the night sky, perfect for capturing the Milky Way. 
Yes, on a clear day, you can see Mont-Saint-Michel in the distance from the top of the hill where Moulin de Moidrey is situated. It offers a unique perspective of the iconic landmark.
Absolutely! Moulin de Moidrey is a fantastic location for astrophotography due to its rural setting and minimal light pollution. The open views make it ideal for capturing the Milky Way and starry skies.
The view from the hill is a beautiful 360-degree panorama of the Normandy countryside. You can see rolling fields, the charming mill itself, and the distant silhouette of Mont-Saint-Michel.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions posted at the site before flying. Respecting the peace and privacy of the area is important.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Food
The shop at Moulin de Moidrey typically sells flour that has been milled on-site, offering a taste of local produce. You might also find other local products and refreshments available for purchase.
While there isn't a full restaurant, the shop often offers refreshments and local produce. It's a good place to pick up a snack or a unique edible souvenir.
The flour milled at Moulin de Moidrey is highly regarded for its freshness and quality, making it excellent for baking. Many visitors purchase it to take home and enjoy.
The closest town with a good selection of restaurants is Pontorson. You'll find various options there, from casual cafes to more traditional French bistros.
Besides flour, you might find other regional specialties like local jams, honey, or artisanal products, depending on what's available seasonally.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views, and consider purchasing some of the freshly milled flour as a unique souvenir. It's a quick stop that breaks up a longer day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel, providing a change of pace and a touch of rural charm that children often appreciate. Remember to check opening times to ensure you can see the mill in action.
📸 Photographers & Stargazers
+1As mentioned in the deep dives, the mill is a prime spot for astrophotography. The dark skies make it ideal for capturing the Milky Way and other celestial phenomena. The silhouette of the windmill provides a dramatic foreground element for stunning night shots.
+1 Remember to bring your camera gear and plan for a clear night for the best stargazing experience.🚗 Day-Trippers from Mont-Saint-Michel
Combine your visit to the abbey with a stop at the mill to experience a different facet of the region's heritage. You can see the mill, enjoy the views, and perhaps pick up some local flour. It’s a relaxing contrast to the bustling crowds at Mont-Saint-Michel and offers a peaceful moment before or after exploring the famous island commune.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Restoration of Moulin de Moidrey
Visitors often remark on the knowledgeable individuals who maintain the mill, highlighting their passion and expertise. This personal touch adds significant value to the visit, as they can often explain the intricate workings of the windmill and its history. The opportunity to purchase flour milled on-site is a unique aspect, allowing visitors to take a tangible piece of this historical site home with them.
The mill's location on a gentle slope also contributes to its charm, offering lovely views over the surrounding landscape. This strategic placement not only provided optimal wind exposure for milling but also grants visitors a picturesque vantage point, often including a glimpse of the distant Mont-Saint-Michel. It’s a place where history, nature, and local produce converge.
Astrophotography at Moulin de Moidrey
+1Many photographers have shared stunning images of the Milky Way arching over the windmill, creating a truly magical scene. The silhouette of the historic mill against the backdrop of stars adds a unique element to these shots. For the best results, visiting during a new moon phase and on clear nights is highly recommended.
+1While the mill itself is a focal point, the surrounding landscape also plays a role in creating compelling compositions. The gentle slope and open fields allow for a variety of angles and perspectives. It’s a destination that offers both historical interest during the day and breathtaking cosmic beauty by night, making it a dual-purpose attraction for many visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit