A great granite crag rises from the waters of Mount's Bay and is surmounted by an embattled castle called St. Michael's Mount. The view dominates Mounts Bay, one reason it is recognized as one of the top ten most beautiful bays in the world. The mount rises majestically almost 230 feet from the sea level to the highest point, a fourteenth century church. It is situated around five hundred feet from shore and can only be reached by a granite causeway at low tide or by ferry at other times.

The history of the Mount is extensive. The mount was known as a port and trading post from as early as 350 BC. The Mount got its name because here in the fifth century the Archangel Michael appeared to local fishermen. History has it that there was also a vision of St. Michael at Mont-St. Michel in Normandy. The histories of the two mounts are intimately connected with one another. In the twelfth century a Benedictine Priory was built on the Mount. Since then it has been a church, a priory, a military fortress and a private castle.

As you view the Mount you can feel the mystery and legend that clings to it like the sea mist. Visitors flock here for religious pilgrimages and also to visit this magical island.