Paço de São Miguel
A magical tidal island crowned by a historic castle, offering breathtaking views and a journey through centuries of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Walk the causeway
Paço de São Miguel
Best Time
Walk the causeway
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical tidal island crowned by a historic castle, offering breathtaking views and a journey through centuries of history.
"A real-life fairytale island with legends, tides, and views for days!"
Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Crucial for accessing the mount by foot. Don't get caught out by the rising tide!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and uneven paths, especially up to the castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tidal Causeway
Access to St Michael's Mount
Walk across the ancient cobbled causeway as the tide recedes, a truly magical experience.
St Michael's Mount Castle
Summit of the Mount
Explore this historic castle with its stunning architecture and breathtaking panoramic views.
Subtropical Gardens
Terraced gardens on the Mount
Wander through these unique, sheltered gardens bursting with exotic plants and vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tidal Island Access
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Crucial for accessing the mount by foot. Don't get caught out by the rising tide!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and uneven paths, especially up to the castle.
Book Castle Tickets Online :ticket:
Avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
Bring a Picnic :sandwich:
Enjoy stunning views with your own food, as options on the mount can be limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :wave:
Crucial for accessing the mount by foot. Don't get caught out by the rising tide!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking and uneven paths, especially up to the castle.
Book Castle Tickets Online :ticket:
Avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
Bring a Picnic :sandwich:
Enjoy stunning views with your own food, as options on the mount can be limited.
Allow Plenty of Time :clock:
You'll want to explore the castle, gardens, and soak in the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St Michael's Mount for its breathtaking beauty, historical significance, and unique tidal island experience. Many describe it as a 'fairytale' destination with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Some note that access is entirely dependent on tide times, and castle entry requires a ticket, which can be a point of consideration for planning.
"A very relax area with whitewash blocks a very nice and quiet cafe. Great place to relax and take a break if you want a quiet rest."
Amy Cheng
"Most amazing place in the city! Very calm!"
Vanessa Niobe
"Beautiful, free, and very friendly staff. Another lesser-known gem in magnificent Évora."
Ris Rod
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Michael's Mount is a tidal island. At low tide, you can walk across the ancient cobbled causeway from Marazion. At high tide, you'll need to take a boat taxi. Check tide times on the official St Michael's Mount website before you travel.
Yes, there are several car parks in Marazion, the closest village to the causeway. These are typically pay-and-display.
Yes, you can reach Marazion by public transport. The nearest train station is Penzance, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Marazion.
Boat taxis operate from Marazion harbour when the causeway is submerged. They are weather dependent and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Access to the island and castle can be challenging due to steep paths and uneven terrain. The gardens have some accessible routes, but the castle interior has many stairs. Boat access may be easier for some.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the island and village is free. However, to visit the castle and gardens, you need to purchase a ticket. Booking online in advance is recommended.
Opening hours vary depending on the season and tide times. It's essential to check the official St Michael's Mount website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Ticket prices for the castle and gardens vary. Check the official website for current pricing. Entry to the island itself is free.
While you can sometimes purchase tickets on the day, pre-booking online is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and your preferred time slot.
Discounts may be available for National Trust members, children, and seniors. Check the official website for details on pricing and concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic castle, wander through the beautiful terraced gardens, discover the charming village, and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
Yes, there is a cafe on the mount offering refreshments and light meals. Many visitors also choose to bring a picnic to enjoy with the views.
Most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the mount, depending on how much time they dedicate to the castle, gardens, and village.
Yes, St Michael's Mount is incredibly photogenic! You'll find stunning photo opportunities around every corner, from the causeway to the castle ramparts. +1
Assistance dogs are welcome. Other dogs are generally not permitted within the castle or gardens, but may be allowed in the village area on a lead. Check the official website for the latest policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Tides
When the tide is high, the only way to reach the mount is by boat. These charming boat taxis offer a different perspective of the island and can be an exciting part of the experience, especially for families. However, they are weather-dependent and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so factor this into your plans.
A Fairytale Castle and Gardens
Beyond the castle walls lie the enchanting subtropical gardens. These terraced gardens are a marvel, sheltered from the harsh coastal winds and bursting with a diverse array of plants from around the world. Wandering through these lush, green spaces provides a tranquil contrast to the rugged exterior of the mount.
Community Insights and Hidden Gems
Some Reddit users suggest that visiting on a Sunday can be particularly rewarding, as it was free to enter the palace, see an antique car exhibition, and access the library during their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit