There are quite a few gorgeous places to go for a bike ride around the world, from stunning coastal cities to towering mountains, but the tidal island of Mont-Saint-Michel might win the title of the most beautiful. Scottish BMX rider Kriss Kyle has done a lot of impressive stunts on his bike, but this ride is one of his coolest. Starting near the top of the ancient commune, Kriss worked his way down while hitting stellar jumps and tricks before crossing the bridge back to the mainland.
About Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel stands as one of Europe’s most unforgettable landmarks, rising from a remarkable bay shared by Normandy and Brittany. Visible from far across the surrounding landscape, the island has captivated travelers, pilgrims, and historians for centuries with its dramatic setting and rich past.
Its history as a major Christian pilgrimage destination dates to the early eighth century when Aubert, the bishop of nearby Avranches, said the Archangel Michael urged him to build a church on the rocky island. Beginning in 966, the dukes of Normandy and later the French kings supported the expansion of a Benedictine abbey that became one of medieval Europe’s leading centers of learning.
Over time impressive monastic buildings were added, including a soaring section known as the Marvel. The abbey attracted scholars, manuscript illuminators, and countless pilgrims despite ongoing conflict across the English Channel. Defensive ramparts were built to protect the island, while the steep village street below gradually filled with buildings that now serve as museums, restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Mont-Saint-Michel is also famous for the highest tides in continental Europe. On days when the tidal range exceeds 110, the mount becomes an island once again for several hours as access is cut off by the sea. Visitors are encouraged to admire the bay with a guide and avoid venturing onto the tidal flats alone due to rapidly changing conditions.
About Kriss Kyle
Kriss Kyle has established himself as one of the sport’s most creative and innovative athletes through a career defined by bold competition performances and unforgettable video projects. Born in Dumbarton, Scotland, Kyle discovered BMX at a young age and developed his skills while riding around his hometown of Stranraer before turning professional in 2008.
His breakthrough came with a victory at The Transgression Skatepark Jam in 2008. Soon afterward, he became a resident rider at Unit 23, one of the largest indoor skate and BMX parks in the United Kingdom. The opportunity to ride the facility regularly helped accelerate his progression and cemented his reputation as one of the world’s most exciting park riders.
Kyle has competed on some of BMX’s biggest stages, including Simple Session, Red Bull Skylines, and X Games events around the world. Beyond competition, he has become known for pushing the limits of what is possible on a BMX bike. In 2023, he rode a custom BMX bowl suspended beneath a hot air balloon more than 2,000 feet above the ground. In 2025, he added another remarkable achievement by successfully jumping over an approaching Formula One car in a widely celebrated stunt.