The historic French community of Mont Saint-Michel was isolated from the mainland when the so-called “tide of the century” completely submerged its causeway for the first time in this millennium.

The tide is estimated to have risen to a level of about 50 feet tall – that is, as high as a four-story building. The spectacular scenic views created by the phenomenon brought many tourists flocking to the large granite island off the northern coast of Normandy. Some who were disappointed in missing Friday’s solar eclipse – which was blocked across most of Europe by cloudy weather – were glad of the chance to witness a different kind of amazing nature show.

Despite its name as the “tide of the century,” the supertide reoccurs approximately every 18 years. The natural cycle was augmented during Saturday’s period by the proximity of a “super moon.” Although this is the first time in the millennium that the bridge between Mont Saint-Michel and the French mainland has been flooded, it probably will not be the last.

Residents living in the village on Mont Saint-Michel are, for now, cut off via ground travel from the rest of France. The flooded footbridge that normally connects it to the mainland was designated as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1979. An imposing medieval abbey also graces the top of the rocky isle, rising some 560 feet above sea level.

Although the natural phenomenon makes for some beautiful pictures, it did not occur without tragedy. Two men were drowned by the supertide as it rose up near Ile Grande and Rocher de Saint-Nicolas.

Four more dates of exceedingly high tide action are expected within the coming year. April 19, August 31, September 29, and October 28 will also see a significant rise in tides, although none quite so big as today’s, according to a spokesperson for Odalys Vacance.