4.6
(2329)
28,473
hikers
193
hikes
Hiking around Bacilly offers diverse landscapes in the Manche department of Normandy, France. The region features a varied coastline with dunes, beaches, and tidal inlets, transitioning inland to bocage countryside characterized by hedgerows and wooded areas. Marshlands and hills also contribute to the varied terrain, providing a range of natural environments for exploration. A dense network of freshwater streams and coastal rivers further enhances the natural beauty of the area.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.8
(8)
41
hikers
16.9km
04:22
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
30
hikers
6.16km
01:36
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
4.75km
01:12
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
1
hikers
7.20km
01:52
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
9.36km
02:26
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
From this point, you have a panoramic view of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, including: 1/ Mont Saint-Michel itself in the distance, majestic on its rocky island, and 2/ the vast salt marshes ("herbus") and mudflats, which change dramatically depending on the tide.
1
0
Its origins date back to the 6th century, when the future Saint Leonard worked in the region. In 1087, William the Conqueror granted the fief of Vains to the Abbey of Saint-Étienne in Caen, which subsequently founded the priory. The building dates back to the 11th century and has been restored several times over the centuries. Today, the priory serves as a holiday accommodation.
1
0
The Grouin du Sud is a natural headland offering impressive views of the bay and the famous Klosterberg. Depending on the tide, the landscape alternates between vast mudflats and ocean views, making the place particularly charming.
1
0
The mudflat hike to Mont Saint-Michel usually starts at the Le Grouin du Sud headland near Genêts. This is the official starting point for guided tours through the bay, which lead across the mudflats to Mont Saint-Michel at low tide. The trail should only be undertaken with a certified mudflat guide, as the area is potentially dangerous due to tides, currents, and quicksand. Popular providers such as Chemins de la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel regularly organize safe tours from Genêts. Chemins de la Baie – Official website for guided tours through the bay: https://www.cheminsdelabaie.com/
1
0
The Route du Grouin du Sud, also known as the "Customs Officer's Path," is a 10- to 11.5-kilometer-long coastal hike near Genêts and Vains. It leads through the impressive bay of Mont Saint-Michel and offers beautiful views of the sea, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Tombelaine rock along long stretches. The route is mostly circular and takes between two and a half and three and a half hours, depending on your pace. It runs through meadows, coastal paths, and small country roads. It is unpaved in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. A cultural highlight is the Prieuré Saint-Léonard with its historic chapel. The "Grouin du Sud" headland is particularly worth seeing; on a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire bay.
1
0
The Routout farm in Saint-Léonard was acquired by the Conservatoire du Littoral in 1994 and, after extensive renovations, opened as the Maison de la Baie/Relais de Vains in 2001. In 2011, it evolved into the Écomusée de la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel, incorporating content from the Maison de la Baie/Relais de Courtils. Link: https://ecomusee-baie.manche.fr/lecomusee/histoire-du-site/
1
0
The Le Grand Port picnic area offers a beautiful vantage point of Mont Saint-Michel. From here, a wide view opens up across the bay, with the silhouette of the abbey visible on the horizon on a clear day. Especially in the early morning hours or at sunset, the light glides over the mudflats and salt marshes.
1
0
Very good coffee and cold drinks when he's there.
1
0
There are over 200 hiking routes around Bacilly, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find a wide selection of paths, from gentle strolls through the countryside to more challenging excursions with significant elevation changes.
Bacilly is situated in the diverse region of La Manche, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes. You can explore coastal paths with expansive sea views, including dunes, beaches, and tidal inlets. Inland, the scenery transitions to classic Norman bocage countryside with hedgerows and wooded areas, as well as marshlands and rolling hills. A dense network of freshwater streams and coastal rivers further enhances the natural beauty.
Yes, Bacilly offers many easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Grouin du Sud – Priory of St Léonard loop from Vains is an easy 6.1 km route. Another gentle option is the Genêts – Genêts loop from Genêts, which is just under 5 km and features minimal elevation gain.
Many trails in the Bacilly area offer magnificent views of the iconic Mont Saint-Michel. A popular choice is the moderate Chemin du Douanier – View of Mont Saint-Michel loop from Vains, a 16.9 km route providing scenic vistas. You can also find breathtaking perspectives from viewpoints like the Beautiful view of Mont-Saint-Michel (Barrage).
Yes, many of the trails around Bacilly are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hiking loop from Champcey, an easy 7.2 km route, and the moderate Hiking loop from Bacilly, which covers 9.4 km.
Beyond Mont Saint-Michel, the region boasts several notable attractions. You can visit the historic Pontaubault Bridge, a 15th-century structure over the Sélune River, offering picnic spots and views of the tides. The Grouin du Sud also provides excellent viewpoints. For a leisurely stroll, the Jardin des Plantes in nearby Avranches is a pleasant botanical garden.
The diverse landscapes of Bacilly can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, especially for coastal walks, but can be warmer. Winter hikes can be beautiful, particularly in the bocage countryside, though some coastal paths might be exposed to stronger winds.
Many trails in the Bacilly area are suitable for dogs, especially those through the countryside and woodlands. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, particularly in areas with livestock or near protected natural sites. Check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in coastal or nature reserve areas.
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular hiking trails and in the villages surrounding Bacilly. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot or local tourism websites. For example, areas near Vains, Genêts, and Champcey typically have designated parking spots for hikers.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of Mont Saint-Michel, the tranquility of the bocage countryside, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the diverse landscapes a truly rewarding experience.
While Bacilly is known for its accessible trails, there are options for more experienced hikers seeking a challenge. The region offers 10 difficult routes, which typically feature longer distances and more significant elevation changes, allowing you to push your limits while exploring the varied terrain.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.