I posted this on another thread but thought I'd post again here (with some edits) for anyone looking specifically for information on the new shuttle service to Mont St Michel.
Just returned from Mont St Michel and although I was wary of the new Shuttle process, I must say that I think I'm a fan. We had been to the Mont several years ago so I have the benefit of comparing my two experiences. The first time we were there we only went for the day, this time we stayed overnight and left the following day so please keep that in mind. Also we speak/understand a little bit of French and this was helpful but wasn't absolutely necessary - as almost everyone was friendly and tried to help when needed.
The first time we visited in June 2009, we arrived very early around 8:30 am. There were already a long line of cars driving up to the parking lots near the Mont and when we left later that afternoon the stream of cars was even longer. Traffic was horrendous, and it was difficult to get a view or picture of the Mont from a distance that was car free. Our parking that morning was fairly close, and if I remember correctly we had to pay? I may be wrong there so correct me if needed. I don't remember anyone walking along the road to the Mont - but I think it was possible on a narrow shoulder on each side, exhaust fumes from the cars would have made it unpleasant I imagine.
Fast forward to May 1st 2012. It's a holiday all over Europe so the Abbey itself was closed - not sure if that contributed to smaller crowds or not, but the whole experience seemed much less 'cramped' this time although it was still crowded. Since we were staying overnight, we called the hotel to see what we would need to do. The reception staff gave us a special code to get into parking lot #3 which they said would be clearly marked. When we arrived, cars were queuing up for the day parking and there really weren't any clearly marked signs for parking lot #3. We asked a gentleman guiding cars into the lot where we needed to go and he didn't know but passed us on to another gentleman, who gave us some more detailed directions - in French. Signage would have been very helpful. Essentially you drive into the area where the other lots are but continue past them to a small road that says "authorized vehicles only" (seuls les véhicules autorisés). We found the gate we needed and punched in the code - but nothing happened, we tried it again, and again. Finally we gave up, and pressed the information button. A gentleman answered and finally with our broken French he was able to tell us that we needed to press 'V' after the code. It would be very helpful if the hotels included this as part of the code as it was not evident to us but is probably a standard in France.
The day parking lots are a bit of a walk to the shuttle (and I think may have a fee:), but the overnight lot, (again not clearly marked with the #3 but a friendly policeman directed us to the right place) is directly by the shuttle and free, so very convenient for suitcases, etc.... In the general shuttle area are several hotels and restaurants, and a supermarket. Because there are very few cars in this area (only those staying at one of the hotels or on the Mont), this was a very friendly walking and meandering area with lovely views of the Mont. It was now about 3pm and we did not have to queue for the shuttle at all, it was fairly empty - I'm sure due to the time of day. It was a nice day so many people were forgoing the shuttle and walking to the Mont. We were dropped off fairly close - as close as we had been when we drove up all the way and had to park our car, so yes there was a bit of a walk to the Mont, but it was the same if not shorter than our previous experience.
At various times throughout the evening, we could see the shuttles running from our walks around the Mont. Our last walk was at 11:15 - and I still saw the shuttles running. I did see some very small shuttles dropping people off and picking them up right outside the Mont - these had the words "Le Montrose" across the front. I'm not sure what these were about and haven't been able to find any information.
On our way out the next day around noon, we walked to the shuttle queue. Maybe it was just us but it wasn't overly evident where to catch the shuttle. There wasn't a real line at all, it was fairly chaotic with people all over the place trying to get on to the shuttles that arrived. If you had stood where you thought there was a line, you may not get on at all, as people coming after you may just walk up farther next to the people in front and get on. Roped off queue areas would be helpful.
Since it was a lovely day, we decided to walk back as many, many other people were doing as well. I don't think that this had anything to do with the shuttle's being crowded, but rather to have the experience. We hadn't walked over, but after walking back I rather wish we had.
Overall - being the first weekend that this system was implemented it was going very well. I think the whole experience could be improved with more signage - at times it was very unclear on where to go. Since there are so many international visitors, I think more visual signage would be very, very helpful.
I really appreciated being able to get to the Mont and out fairly easily and not being stuck in a long queue of cars, breathing exhaust fumes and obstructing the view. I also liked that fact that if you were staying at one of the nearby hotels off the Mont, you could jump on and off the shuttle as you pleased. It was also nice to look out from the Mont and not seeing all the cars, but just a few occassional shuttles. These were benefits I hadn't considered before I arrived and I would say they contributed to our enjoyment.
I hope this is helpful to any that are worried about the shuttle system being a negative. It definately has kinks needed to be worked out, but in my humble opinion, if you are ready for it and understand you'll need to shuttle to the Mont ahead of time, it makes for a much better experience. I like it.





