Amazing Places That Disappear During High Tide

From castles located in small islands to dreamlike white sandbar, these spectacular sites are only accessible (or best visited) during certain times of the day—at low tide. Connected to the mainland by narrow footpaths or sandy causeways that could disappear with rising tides, visiting some of these some spots can be a bit dangerous (beware of lashing sea waters!), but their natural beauty make the trips worthwhile.
 

The road in France that disappears underwater twice a day

If you're planning a trip to France, make sure to be careful with the roads you take. They might just disappear!

Connecting the Gulf of Burnёf with the island of Noirmoutier, Passage du Gois is a road that is not only unique but extremely dangerous. Twice, every day, when the high tide rises, the 2.58-mile long passage disappears 13 ft under water. People use the road two times a day for a few hours (special panels on both sides show when it's safe to travel). People still get caught between the tides, and there are elevated rescue towers for people to climb, just in case.

The Shivling that can only be viewed during low tide

Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is located in Kavi Kamboi, Gujarat, India. Its Shivling is located so close to the sea that one can only worship there during low tide. The shrine is more than 150-years-old and is situated near the Gulf of Cambay.

The island castle that is only accessible during low tide

This island castle in Mont Saint Michel, France, is only accessible during low tide. Its claim to fame is that it never fell to the English during the 116 years of the Hundred Years' War.

The airport that disappears during high tide

Barra is a 23-square mile island off the western coast of Scotland. It has an airport with three marked runways and conducts regularly scheduled flights. What makes those flights unique is that the schedule takes the tide into account — during high tide, the sea submerges the runways.

The tidal island in England connected by a granite causeway that is only acessible during low tide

St. Michael's Mount, Cornwall, England's most famous landmark, is a small, rocky tidal island crowned by a breathtaking medieval church and castle, rich in history and lore. Legend has it that the Mount was once the home of a giant named Cormoran, who would wade ashore and steal cattle when he got hungry. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of Cormoran and visit the island during low tide when a granite causeway appears for pedestrian crossings. Inside castle walls, history-lovers can enjoy a display of armor and weapons, sub-tropical gardens, and stunning views from the castle turrets. Missed low tide? Ferry boat services are running at high tide during the summer.

The dreamlike white sandbar that completely disappears on high tide

The Manjuyod White Sandbar completely disappears during high tide and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Negros Oriental.
The exceptional location can be accessed via 15-minute boat ride from the Capiñahan Wharf in the South Bais Bay, Bais City, Negros Oriental.

One can only witness it during low tide. It is only then the beautiful white sands and starfish show up, but during high tide one can appreciate the beauty of the unspoiled beach and the crystal blue ocean water.

The horse sculptures designed to be seen during low tides

Four horses are standing by the Thames, but you'll only see them at low tide. They are located by the Vauxhall Bridge, not far from the Houses of Parliament, and are visible in different degrees as the water level changes.

Created by eco-sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor to encourage people to reflect on our dependence on fossil fuels, the horses' heads are oil well pumps – also known as horsehead pumps. Two of the riders are businessmen, and two are children, alluding to the people who currently control resources versus those whose futures are at stake.