St. Michael’s Mount is a tidal island near the very southwestern tip of Cornwall. At low tide, it can be reached by foot across a thin sand spit. Otherwise, you can jump on one of the many boats that will ferry you to, or from the island for a small fee. It is named for the Archangel Michael, who is said to have appeared to local fishermen warning them of danger. Due to this legendary apparition, the site became an important pilgrimage spot and a medieval church and monastery were built on the island for worship. In those times, it had strong connections to Mont-Sant-Michel in Normandy, France (both were dedicated to the Archangel Michael).
Interestingly, the legend of Jack the Giant Killer originates from this site. The Cornish giant, Cormoran, supposedly built the Mount and would terrorize the people on the mainland. Jack, a brave boy from the nearest mainland town, is said to have lured the giant to his demise by setting a trap on the island.
Since ancient times there have been many different owners of the Mount. But, the St. Aubyn family bought it just after the English Civil War, in 1659, and they’ve lived there ever since. Buildings on the island have been constructed, rebuilt, remodeled and extended many times over the years, and a small village grew around its’ tiny harbor area. The cliffside garden created just below the castle is particularly unique and beautiful! With the numerous alterations, the castle and chapel display different architectural styles – including medieval, gothic and Victorian. The place has quite a rich and varied history.
Super Fun! Thanks for the tour.
I love the garden. Especially, the Naked Ladies’ (cousins) clustered about!!
Mom would have liked 🥹
They even got a few different fuchsias to grow on that cliff! Mom would have tried to pinch some cuttings! 😜
Such an amazing place. We were there in brilliant sunshine, and the was amazing. I missed the Monty Python-esque stained glass (?!). But the gardens. And the cream tea in the village …
Yeah, those windows did have a Monty Python feel to them! That’s probably what drew Chris to them in the first place!
More beautiful photos of beautiful places. ❤️❤️❤️❤️🌈👏
It was a bit grey and rainy, but still a wonderful place to visit!
Fantastic place & more gardening ideas.
If only we all had our own personal islands to create whatever garden paradise we wanted! Oh well…..
Yes, beautiful, but remind me it is still summer…no? Thank you for sharing the photos and storyline.
Nope – I’m convinced somehow it’s winter right now – the continuously grey, rainy days! Everyone keeps telling us it’s very unusual. I can’t help but wonder, though, if someone is playing a cruel joke on us! 🤔