You Can Actually Walk Across the Ocean to This English Castle During Low Tides

Unlike other islands, St. Michael's Mount can be reached in two ways: by boat or by foot. The medieval church and castle in Cornwall, England, features a man-made causeway that visitors can walk across from Marazion Beach — but only during mid or low tides. At high tides (during Spring, Summer, and Fall), the cobbled walkway is covered by the ocean and passage is only possible by boat.

The St. Aubyn family and a small community of islanders inhabit the Mount, but its long history dates far back to familiar myths and legends. Tales that originated in 495 AD say mermaids lured ships to the rocks or that archangel St. Michael guided them to safety. Pilgrims, monks, and others guided by faith have come to the island since to pray and celebrate. In addition to being a spiritual landmark, St. Michael's Mount is also said to be lucky for love. It is believed that those who touch the highest point of the bedrock will be granted a romantic wish, especially before a proposal or wedding. The popular legend of Jack the Giant-Killer also originated on the island, where Cormoran the giant was said to have lived. A young man named Jack from Marazion supposedly walked across the causeway to slay him.

In 1066, the monks of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, France, took over the castle and built the church and monastery that still stand today. Watch a time-lapse video that shows the change of tides, and see the amazing photos after!