Genêts is a picturesque and peaceful village located in the bay of the Mont Saint-Michel. The village was once an important trading port from where pilgrims crossed the bay to the Mont-Saint-Michel. In the Middle Ages the population amounted to more than 3000 inhabitants. Today there are 420.
The economic activity was based on the manufacture of salt and at least 10 mills worked nearby. Bread, flour, salt, wine and cereals were sold every Monday in the village at la Place des Halles which was famous at the time. There is still a lovely water mill in the village.
Born in Genêts was Bishop Aubert, founder of the Mont-Saint-Michel. Louis Adrian, creator of the furry helmet of the Great War is buried here, and the painters Maurice Utrillo and his mother Suzanne Valadon lived here.
With its pretty streets of old stone houses, its river, water mill and 12th century church, the village retains an authentic charm. The view of the bay, the Mont and Tombelaine is one of the most beautiful in the region.
Le Bec d’Andaine is today an extensive beach, the starting point for many crossings of the bay.
