Step off the beaten path into Manche
he purpose of this magazine is to show potential visitors to Manche the special features that make our department such a great holiday destination. We sincerely hope the quality glossy photos and short informative texts do justice to the unique atmosphere of what is undoubtedly a beautiful corner of Normandy.
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First and foremost, the countryside of Manche was for a long time one of the best-kept secrets of France with its famous bocage landscape of narrow lanes and broadleaved hedgerows. Indeed, Manche’s farmers had the foresight to preserve the ancient system of hedgerows and small lanes that so many regions did away with in the name of progress... Today, you will find a flourishing natural environment full of wildlife, punctuated by traditional rural architecture. And then there is the coast. Manche has probably one of the longest coastline of any French department and certainly the most diverse. The north of the department, known as the Cotentin Peninsula, bathes in the warm winds and waters of the Atlantic, creating an extraordinary micro-climate
on the north coast of France. Travelling south, rocky outcrops give way to the rolling dunes and long sandy beaches of the west coast before levelling out into the flood plains of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay. Tourism is a major factor in Manche’s economy and as such, is well-developed with a wide range of museums, festivals and sports clubs for all the family to enjoy. Many farmers and small producers open their businesses to the public, putting on exhibitions and films explaining their work and what motivates them. Also, with many regular town markets and rural farm shops, you will be spoilt for choice as you delve into the culinary traditions of West Normandy. We do hope that this magazine, this little tour of our department, gives you a foretaste of what Manche has to offer. And please remember, the people of Manche are by nature reserved but also very approachable, so don’t hesitate to ask them about their department of which they are very proud!
The Coastline Seascapes Ports & Harbours Islands
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The Countryside Natural Sites Regional Nature Parks Parks & Gardens
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Mont Saint-Michel The Bay of Mont Saint-Michel Medieval Heritage Avranches and the Manuscripts
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History & Heritage Built Heritage D-Day Museums
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Family Entertainment Places to Visit At the Seaside Outdoor Activities
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Gastronomy Local Specialities
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Culture & events Festivals & Special Events
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Useful Information
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Tourist Offices
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Copyrights : T. Seni / DGC, S. Fautré, D. Basse, P.Y Le Meur, A. Kubacsi, G. Targat, P. Courault, Jersey Tourism, B. Canu, M. Desaunay, Manoir d’Argences, Château de Martinvast, Houdus - Pontorson, Y. Launay, J.M Desfoux, Scriptorial/Ville d’Avranches, H. Guermonprez, Dead Man’s Corner Museum, Cimetière Allemand de Huisnes-sur-Mer, Musée Airborne Sainte-Mère-Eglise, Chapelle de la Madeleine, Memorial US, Mémorial de la Liberté Retrouvée/Quinéville, OT Saint-Lô, P. Lelièvre, S. Barrault, La Cité de la Mer© Sylvain Guichard, M. Lebreton/Zoo de Champrépus, P.Y. Rospabé, Coast to Coast Roulotte, IRQUA Normandie-Rougereau, IRQUA NormandieI David-Buchet, T. Seni/ Ville de Granville, P.Y Le Meur / JSLP 2006, J-C Bordier / CG50, P. Cochois, CDT Manche, X. Layout : R2PUB - Tel +33 (0)233 05 75 81 - Print : CORLET Imprimerie Writer : Graham McLachlan - MACTRAD - Tel : +33 (0)233 07 67 04 - graham@mactrad.fr
Contemplez un éventail de paysages Du Nord au Sud, d’Est en Ouest, les paysages défilent. A la côte rocheuse granitique du Cotentin, et ses falaises qui culminent à 180 mètres de haut, succèdent à l’Ouest de longs massifs dunaires, des plages de sable fin et des havres. A l’Est de la Manche, le Val de Saire cède la place à la baie des Veys. C’est l’une des portes d’entrées au Parc naturel régional des marais du Cotentin et du Bessin. Là, le bocage et la lande flirtent avec les vastes zones marécageuses. Quelques bois et forêts se mêlent également à ce cocktail de vie, comme ces pins maritimes qui occupent une partie de la lande de Lessay. Plus au Sud, les chemins bocagers sillonnent les vallées, tandis que le Couesnon court toujours entre Normandie et Bretagne, dans la baie du Mont Saint-Michel. Au-dessus, Granville et l’archipel de Chausey sont un appel au voyage maritime, peut-être vers les îles anglo-normandes. Le Saint-Lois et le Mortainais, quant à eux, rappellent que la Manche est le premier département bocager de France. Tous ces paysages à l’apparence immuable sont en fait très vulnérables, au point que de nombreuses organisations y portent attention : associations de bénévoles, services de l’Etat, collectivités... L’enjeu : mobiliser les usagers du territoire pour limiter les pollutions et accorder une place à la nature.
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Seascapes Manche is a maritime region bordered by 350 km of varied coastline, comprising granite cliffs and intimate coves in the north, and long sandy beaches and rolling dunes in the south.
To the beach in Jullouville Facing the myriad Chausey Islands, Jullouville Beach is a dreamy seaside resort in the depths of Mont Saint-Michel Bay. The beneficial effects of the Gulf Stream and its sheltered position give it a very mild climate, sufficiently warm to grow colourful, yellow-flowered mimosas and towering palm trees. Forest and cliffs provide a sublime backdrop to the two-kilometre-long sandy beach which is subject to the greatest tidal range of all Europe.
▲ Rivers and dunes : Pointe d’Agon The longshore drift southwards down the west coast of Manche has created one of the most intriguing landscapes of the region, Agon Point. This massive windswept sandbar is a protected natural coastal site and home to many local waders and migrating birds searching for food among the waves. Further inland, behind the dunes and the marram grass, sheep graze peacefully on the salt marshes in the shelter of the pine woods.
▲ ▲ Cap de la Hague Jutting out impressively into the Channel, Hague Headland is the majestic north-west tip of the Cotentin Peninsula. A wild and varied landscape with steep granite cliffs and small sheltered coves, Hague is home to many seafaring birds and salt-resistant plant species. Several small fishing ports are dotted along its shores; notably Goury with its wave-battered lighthouse and circular lifeboat station and the famous Port Racine, the smallest port in France!
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Ports & harbours Manche's two major ports are extremely active in fishing and ship construction as well as being great tourist destinations; they are undoubtedly the economic powerhouses of the region .
Granville
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Granville is a vibrant coastal town on the shores of Mont Saint-Michel Bay. The beautiful traditional architecture of the old quarter stands high on the cliffs overlooking the old tidal fishing harbour. The new town has plenty to offer tourists or the itinerant yachtsman looking for an exciting seaside resort with a vast choice of shops, museums, a casino, a health centre, a modern “floating” marina with services and a sailing school.
Cherbourg
One of the most striking things about Cherbourg must be the magnificent sea wall that protects the largest port complex to be found between Le Havre and Brest. The city is great for shopping and puts on many cultural events throughout the year. Its maritime heritage takes pride of place with the Cité de la Mer submarine and visitor centre. Ocean liners still stop off at the very same quay that the Titanic set out from on her ill-fated voyage...
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Pituresque Havens Manche has a number of small and charming ports dotted along its coastline, providing a warm welcome to the visiting tourist entering by road or by sea. St-Vaast-la-Hougue St-Vaast lies at the western end of the Normandy Landing Beaches, a typical and active fishing port of the Cotentin Peninsula overlooking the waters of Seine Bay. The mysterious Isle of Tatihou is just a few hundred yards off the shore and can be reached by causeway at low tide. The spacious new marina makes the port a practical base for preparing sailing trips to the Channel Islands and Brittany.
▲ Barfleur The medieval port of Barfleur has some of the most striking architecture of any port along the Norman Coast. The heavy grey granite of the traditional fishermen's houses gives the tidal harbour a special atmosphere that can only be heightened by its historic links to William the Conqueror and the Pilgrims’ Trail. The fishing community is still active and many boats continue to land their catches on the quays of this remarkable ancient town.
Portbail ▲
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Portbail is an authentic coastal village nestling among the dunes of the Cotentin. Within easy reach of the Channel Islands, Portbail marina is a welcome port of call after rounding the Hague Headland and descending the Alderney Race. There are lots of sports on offer too, such as canoeing, sailing, micro-lighting and horse-riding. Visitors can also take the special Tourist Train for a day out to Carteret or perhaps visit some local architecture such as the windmill at Fierville-les-Mines.
Barneville-Carteret
Just across the water from Jersey, Barneville-Carteret is a charming seaside resort with its roots planted firmly in the 19th century. Born in the age of the railway, the graceful town centre is sandwiched between magnificent cliffs and beautiful beaches. The spacious and sheltered harbour has been used for centuries by sailors heading to the Channel Islands and the marina provides all the services required by the modern yachtsman.
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Islands Manche’s territory does not stop at the shore, indeed, many of the islands lying off the coast are open to the public with regular ferry services and on-site visitor facilities.
Îles Chausey They say that at low tide the Chausey Archipelago has an islet for every day of the year! The main island, Grande Île, is the only inhabited part of the island group. A favourite fishing destination for the mainlanders during spring tides, the islands are home to over 300 types of plants and a multitude of bird species. Not only a unique insular environment, Chausey is also a great source of interest for the amateur naturalist.
Île Tatihou The extraordinary past of the Isle of Tatihou can be seen in the impressive military architecture that dominates its landscape. Once home to a laboratory outpost, the small island is today Manche’s foremost maritime museum, putting on exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. The highlight of the season must surely be the traditional music concerts held in mid-August with the spectacular crossing of the causeway at low tide.
▲ ▲ Channel Islands Probably the most famous of all the isles lying off the coast of Manche, the Channel Islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark and Alderney are just a short ferry ride from the ports of Barneville-Carteret, Granville and Dielette.
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Natural Sites With With its its majestic majestic granite granite landscape landscape and and lush lush vegetation, vegetation, Manche Manche has has aa wealth wealth of of timeless timeless natural natural sites sites just just waiting waiting to to be be discovered. discovered.
Ham Rocks The timeless Roches de Ham are vast cliffs of granite covered with a wide variety of small trees and brush. Towering over the peaceful green pasture in the valley below, Ham Rocks follow the course of the lazy river Vire as it winds its way to the sea. Much appreciated by climbing enthusiasts, the panoramic view from the top of the cliffs is a worthy reward for a morning’s climb.
Regional Nature Parks France is home to 44 regional nature parks whose purpose is to maintain and support rural communities and traditions whilst creating prosperity through sustainable development.
Cotentin and Bessin Marshes This magnificent low-lying park stretches from the western edge of the Cotentin Peninsula to the Bessin region in the east. This unique landscape is made of green grazing plains in the summer, which become “white” in the winter when they flood. Near Carentan, the Ponts d’Ouve Interpretation Centre is a great way to begin a visit to the area. The Centre describes the plant and bird life living in the marshes, as well as delving into age-old traditions and local architectural heritage.
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Normandie-Maine
The Normandie-Maine Park touches the southern end of Manche Department, containing most notably the vast Mortain Forest. It stretches far into Orne and Mayenne and is home to a rich and varied wildlife that lives in its vast forests and woods, criss-crossed by rivers and many footpaths.
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Parks & Gardens The rich and fertile soil, and the particularly favourable mild climate, make Manche a plant-lover’s paradise with many unique gardens open to the public.
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Jardin du Château de Vauville
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Vauville Botanical Gardens are an extraordinary product of the local micro-climate created by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Founded in 1948, the Gardens cover 40 000 square metres of prime horticultural land overlooking the sea on the north coast of Manche. An intriguing network of paths guides the visitor through a colourful setting worthy of a tropical island with palms, eucalyptus trees and a myriad of exotic plants!
Les jardins d’Argences
Winner of numerous horticultural prizes, Argences Manor Gardens are a harmonious mixture of water features and European gardening styles. Every year, the 17th century manor lays on an open-air festival of silent film as well as numerous classical music concerts.
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Parc du Château de Martinvast
This timeless example of Englishstyle gardens lies in the grounds of the magnificent Martinvast Castle. A vast park covers meadows, woods, ponds and cascades, whilst the garden hosts various species of rhododendrons, gunneras, exotic pine trees, hydrangeas, camellias, magnolias, etc.
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The Bay of Mont Saint-Michel One of the most famous historic sites of all France, mythical Mont Saint-Michel rises majestically out of the sea in a beautiful natural bay that separates the shores of Normandy and Brittany.
Spring Tides
Making an Island
With up to 15 metres difference between low and high tide, Mont Saint-Michel Bay is reputed to have the greatest tidal range in Europe! This phenomenon is due to the combined gravitational force of the sun and the moon when aligned. After every full moon, the sea is sucked out into the Channel and then rushes back into the Bay, surging far up its shores... Occasionally it even puts the car parks underwater !
Long ago, Mont Saint-Michel was an island but time and tide, and the intervention of Man, have so changed the character of the local landscape that this is no longer the case. Indeed if nothing is done, Mont Saint-Michel will find itself, in the not-so-distant future, landlocked for all time. To counter this scenario and preserve the beauty of the Bay, works are underway to ensure that France’s “Saint Michael’s Mount” remains an island forever.
Crossing the Bay Crossing the Bay at low tide to Mont Saint-Michel is a fantastic way to discover the natural environment of the area and the perfect approach for preparing a visit to the ancient monastic centre on the Mount. Whether on foot or on horseback, it is advisable to cross the Bay in the company of a professional guide to get the most out of your adventure and ensure your safety.
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Medieval Heritage Included on UNESCO’s famous world heritage list, Mont Saint-Michel is a timeless example of religious architecture and a fount of medieval history. Mont Saint-Michel Abbey ▲
The Village Mont Saint-Michel is not only a place of religion but also a small fortified village dating from feudal times. Across the drawbridge and through the front gate, the main entrance opens into an intimate congregation of medieval houses that line the narrow winding streets leading up to the abbey. Among the many museums and shops, one establishment stands out for its culinary speciality and good works; Mother Poulard and her omelettes are famous throughout France.
The Catholic abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is run by the monks of the Monastic Fraternity of Jerusalem and is dedicated to the Archangel. A destination for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, the Abbey is a marvel of ecclesiastical architecture combining both Romanesque and Gothic styles. The first chapel on the Mount was built in 708 and successive communities of monks have slowly developed the site into the magnificent edifice it is today.
Avranches and the Manuscripts Avranches, the capital of southern Manche, is a centuries-old crossroads between Normandy and Brittany, and inextricably linked to the fortunes of Mont Saint-Michel. Avranches Rising sturdily out of the southern lowlands of Manche, the fine city of Avranches is within easy view of the famous Mont Saint-Michel. This ancient market town is proud of its history and holds many local treasures in Saint-Gervais Church and the town museum. The public gardens are of special interest to plant lovers and idle readers of Maupassant looking for an authentic setting. The town has lots of sport and leisure activities on offer, notably a luxury swimming pool complex.
Scriptorial The Scriptorial is a modern interpretation centre devoted to the manuscripts once held in the abbey libraries of Mont Saint-Michel. This collection of monastic writings is thought to be the most comprehensive in all France. Benedictine monks handed the writings over to the town of Avranches in the late 18th century, fearful of the destructive excesses of the Revolution. Today, the Scriptorial explains in great detail the history and meaning of what can only be considered a national treasure.
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Built Heritage heritage Manche enjoys a great diversity of both civil and military architecture, from Vauban fortifications and feudal castles to hardy granite fishermen’s cottages and humble cob farm dwellings.
▲ Crosville-sur-Douve Castle Crosville Castle is the result of one woman’s determination to rescue a piece of local history from ruin and to restore it to its former glory. Open to the public, the earliest parts of this historic monument date from the 15th century, such as the sturdy keep overlooking the Cotentin marshes. Other notable features are a magnificent twin staircase and a curious garden pavilion whose intricate roof timbers were fashioned by shipwrights.
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Coutances Cathedral
With its vertiginous twin spires towering majestically over the main square, Coutances Cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture from the 13th century. Spectacular stained glass windows colourfully illustrate important episodes from the Bible, while sober statues of the saints look down on the congregation. The lantern tower is a marvel of the stone mason and the glazier’s arts, bathing the transept with warmth and colour on a sunny day.
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Gatteville Lighthouse
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Gatteville Lighthouse stands 75 metres tall on the north-east coast of Manche, signalling to sailors the dangers of Barfleur Point. Taking five years to build, the light was first lit in 1835 and burnt rapeseed oil! Its workings were mechanized in 1984, so keepers no longer have to climb the 365 steps to tend to the lamp every night. A star in its own right, the tower has appeared in many paintings and was the setting for the 1981 cult movie “Diva”.
Marchésieux Cob House
The Maison des Marais is a fine example of the traditional agricultural architecture of the Cotentin and Bessin Marshes. A humble dwelling of thick clay walls and a heavy thatched roof, this type of house is still visible throughout the heartland of Manche. Restored at the end of the 1980s, the cob house is now open to the public and serves to promote a particularly environmental way of building houses.
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D-Day D-Day Manche played a major role in the D-Day landings that routed the occupying forces from north-west France during the Second World War. Numerous sites and museums throughout the region describe the happenings of the Longest Day when the brave Allies landed on the beaches of Seine Bay in June 1944. [20]
Museums There is no better way of learning about a region than visiting its museums, and this is particularly true of Manche whose varied economy relies on many sources, such as agriculture, art and crafts, fishing, industry... ▲
Christian Dior Museum
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The Dior Museum is a sanctuary of grace and style, a beacon of beauty and pleasure overlooking the west coast of Manche. Devoted to the work of the couturier Christian Dior, the museum lays on exhibitions and events linked to the art and history of dressmaking for fashionable ladies. Housed in the Dior family home in Granville, its flower gardens were perhaps the inspiration for the designer’s love of the aesthetic world of colour, form and perfume.
The Bell Foundry
Opened in 1865, the Cornille Havard workshop is the last in a long line of bell foundries to practice its trade in the southern Manche town of Villedieu-les-Poêles. The campanology industry has been an integral component of the region’s economy since the Middle Ages. From ship’s bells to huge cathedral chimes, the Fonderie de cloches specializes in one-off, handmade objects in bronze and also makes other campanological equipment.
The Copper Workshop 30,000 people visit the copper workshop every year to discover the fine art of the coppersmith and learn about an age-old industry that has so marked the region of Villedieu-les-Poêles. The workshop continues to produce handmade utensils in both traditional and contemporary designs, exporting its output all over the world.
▲ Saint-Lô Stud▲ The Saint-Lô National Stud Farm was established in 1806 to ensure that France had sufficient horses for its cavalry. No longer a burning priority for the army, the “haras” now breeds pedigree animals principally for sporting and leisure activities. Almost completely destroyed in the bombings at the end of World War II, the stud farm of today is an exact replica of its 19th-century predecessor.
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Places to Visit As if its natural beauty were not enough, Manche has developed a host of top-quality tourist attractions for all tastes and ages, such as museums, theme parks and interpretation centres. Elf Forest The Forêt des elfes is an exciting adventure park in the forest surrounding Cérences. With zip lines and rope bridges, discover a tree-top trail full of thrills and spills for all the family. The trail is completely safe and there are different levels for specific ages and ability. The park also includes a paint-ball zone where you can exercise your skills as a sniper using impressive up-to-date equipment.
▲ La Cité de la Mer
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Housed in the historic transatlantic terminal that was Titanic’s last port of call, the Cité de la Mer is Cherbourg’s major tourist attraction. Fascinating exhibitions and extraordinary artefacts describe the fantastic human adventure that is deep-sea exploration. The centre contains the tallest aquarium in Europe, standing 10 m high on three levels. However, the star attraction has got to be Redoutable, France’s first nuclear-powered submarine and the largest vessel of its kind open to the public.
Ludiver
The village of Tonneville is a quiet corner of the Cotentin with very little light pollution… a perfect site for an observatory! The Ludiver astronomy centre gives the public the chance to view the stars through powerful telescopes and discover the workings of the universe with an incredibly accurate planetarium. Events and activities for all ages make Ludiver a great day out for all the family.
Champrépus Zoo ▲ For over 50 years, Champrépus Zoo has been delighting young and old with its fine collection of animals from the African continent and the island of Madagascar. Magnificent lions, graceful giraffes and acrobatic lemurs are just some of the myriad exotic wildlife waiting to be discovered in this exceptional natural setting. Midway between Villedieu and Granville, Champrépus also undertakes essential animal conservation work, collaborating with zoos from all over the world.
At the Seaside No other department in France has such a diverse and extensive coast than Manche, a veritable playground for coastal sports enthusiasts. Beaches The beaches in Manche take a variety of shapes and sizes. In the Cotentin, every little cove has its little intimate beach perfect for a midday swim. On the east coast, the shore of Seine Bay is also a historic area where many traces of the Second World War are still visible. Famous for the numerous tidal harbours that punctuate its vast expanse of sand, the west coast is ideal for every kind of leisure activity from kite-flying to sunbathing.
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Outdoor Activities ▲
The great outdoors is waiting for you in the peaceful countryside of Manche; discover a lovingly preserved landscape and a wealth of thriving wildlife. Walking
With its comprehensive network of signposted footpaths and trails, Manche has so much to offer the dedicated rambler. Refreshing coastal paths wind along the southern cliffs and the northern headlands; dreamy rural lanes full of wild flowers dissect the lush bocage; and open trails criss-cross the wide open marshes and moors of the department’s midlands.
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Gypsy Caravans
Travel the beautiful Manche countryside in a gypsy caravan and discover the charm of the open road. Relax to the gentle “clip-clop” of the horse’s hooves as you roam through quiet country lanes and verdant greenways. Horse-drawn caravans can be hired from various providers and special routes have been mapped out for your convenience.
Cycling Whether you are looking for a challenging MTB trail or a relaxing ride through country lanes, you are sure to find something to tickle your fancy in Manche. There are a number of old towpaths and railway lines converted into greenways, and comprehensive maps are available for all the best cycling routes in the region.
▲ Sailing
▲ Kite-surfing Kite-surfing is big in the Cotentin Peninsula with three dedicated kite-surf clubs around Cherbourg. Also, the long open seaboard of the west coast is an idyll for this exciting new sport that combines sail and surf in an explosive way!
Manche is a great location for the itinerant yachtsman looking for charming ports and secret coves on his way to the Channel Islands or as he returns from the Atlantic. The long sandy beaches make launching trailer dinghies as easy as “one, two, three” and numerous sailing schools offer courses and equipment for hire at reasonable prices. The larger ports, such as Granville, Cherbourg and Saint-Vaast, also provide ship maintenance services.
▲ Sand-yachting Great sand-yachting runs require long stretches of sand, free from obstacles... and that’s just what the west coast of Manche has to offer! Want to learn more? The many sand-yachting clubs of Manche are dedicated to promoting and teaching this fast and furious wind-powered sport.
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L cal Specialities If you like good food, you’ll love Manche and its fresh food markets, its restaurants and farm shops. Discover our local independent butchers and fishmongers, selling high-quality foodstuffs full of mouth-watering flavour. ▲
Seafood
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Manche is a gateway to the sea and all the culinary delights it contains. The oyster and mussel farms dotted around the coast provide some of the most sought-after shellfish in France. Small fishing boats from Manche’s numerous ports bring home crabs and lobsters and a whole host of flat and round-fish. Look out for the matelote de roussette, a very special local recipe for spotted dogfish stew.
Dairy Produce
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First and foremost an agricultural region, Manche has a flourishing dairy industry producing delicious butter, yoghurt and cheese. Discover the legendary unpasteurized Camembert from Lessay, the creamy Coutances and the typical unsalted butter from the Vire Valley.
Apples
In Manche, apple-growing is a regional sport with almost every farm owning an orchard. Local ciderists have truly mastered the art of making refreshing beverages from this humble fruit, in addition to the ever-present cider, taste their delicious brandies, fortified ciders and alcohol-free juices. Discover the traditional “trou normand”, the practice of a quick nip of apple brandy halfway through your meal to liven up the conversation!
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It can’t be denied, Manche is an exciting place to be for aficionados of art, music, theatre and dance. Performing arts and visual creativity thrive in a rich programme of festivals, cultural seasons and one-off spectaculars.
Festivals &
Throughout the year there are a huge number of fetes, festivals and special events in the department of La Manche.
May
February
Jazz Fe “Jazz sous les po
Granville Carnival
(Jazz under the apple t
the town’s streets, Over a four day period, t to the rhythm bars and restaurants bea and parade al niv car of the lively street eet artists. str and rs gle jug of musicians, Further information at lle.fr www.carnavaldegranvi
May “Papillons de nuit” in Saint-Laurent-de-Cuves
This festival has becom e one of the great ‘mustsee’ events in the jazz calendar. See www.jazzsouslespomm iers.com for details.
June D-Day in Sainte-Mère-Eglise
" Music Festival at St Laurent de Cuves, this tiny village in the heart of the southerly tip of la Manche hosts one of the liveliest and rock music festivals in France. For further details see www.papillonsdenuit.com
August
Series of events commemorating the D-Day landings in 1944. For more information go to : www.sainte-mere-eglise.info or www.manchetourisme.com
Summer Folk Music Festival “Les traversées Tatihou” ide to ds at low-t y a ss the san o njo cr e a to lk a u W tiho land of Ta cting ra tt a s the tiny is rt -air conce n e p o w f o e n th orld seaso m around artists fro o to : r details g For furthe .com u o h www.tati
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FOR A FULL LIST OF ALL OF THE EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, TOGETHER WITH PRACTICAL INFORMATION, VISIT www.manche-tourism.com
Special Events A selection of just some of the events
stival mmiers� rees) in Coutances
From May to September
Christian Dior-Museum and gardens in Granville the childhood home of this world-renowned designer hosts a special exhibition with examples his work, giving us a glimpse into the influences and inspiration that his cliff-top home and gardens provided. Informations : www.musee-dior-granville.com
July and August Evening visits of the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey Leisurely even ing strolls arou nd this beautiful abbey, whilst enjoying the backdrop of music and th e illuminated fa cades.
August
September
Normandie Horse Show
Millennium Fair of the Sainte Croix in Lessay
in Saint-LĂ´ A packed programme of over 50 equestrian events over three days See www.normandie-horse-show.com for further details.
more than ir attracts fa y tr n u co oak up the This huge ome and s C r. in a e y ch ltural life isitors ea l and agricu ts, a giant ra 300,000 v ru f o s d even soun sights and griculturally-related ibitors make A xh y. e d f n o a e g Norm t ran iles! plus a vas r Francoph fo t s u m a fairground t n com y. ve a e s s is e th n-l www.canto
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Useful Inform Public Holidays
School Holidays
Opening times for shops
There are 10 public holidays in France: New Year’s Day, the 1st and 8th May, Easter Monday, Ascension Thursday, 14th July, 15th August, the first and 11th November and 25th December.
There are five main school holidays in France. They are: Two weeks at the end of October (around All Saints Day). Two weeks at Christmas. Two weeks in February. Two weeks in April All of July and August
In small towns and villages, the butchers, bakers and grocery shops open early in the morning and stay open until 7pm. Many are closed on Mondays, but open Sunday mornings. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets are usually open from 9.30am until 7pm or 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
The school holiday periods in France are staggered based on the geographical zone of the school. The department of La Manche is in Zone A. Many French calendars and bookings systems show the school holidays for the 3 zones.
Organising your trip to La Manche For information about what to see and do, places to stay, restaurants and leisure activities visit our website: www.manche-tourism.com
Contact us
Information about visiting France
Manche Tourisme
Maison de la France French Tourist Board
Maison du DĂŠpartement 98 route de Candol 50008 SAINT-LO CEDEX Tel : +33 (0)233 05 98 70 Fax : +33 (0)233 56 07 03 Email: manchetourisme@cg50.fr
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Lincoln House 300 High Holborn LONDON WC1V 7JH - UK Tel : 09068 244 123 (60p/min at all times) Fax : 0207 061 6646 Email : info.uk@franceguide.com Monday-Friday from 10am to 4pm
Information about Normandy generally CRT Normandie Tel : +33 (0)232 33 79 00 www.normandy-tourism.org
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Finding and booking accommodation in la Manche Ask for our brochure “Hébergements dans la Manche” which lists details of hotels, campsites and holiday villages in the department, or search and reserve on-line from a range of hotels, self-catering, campsites, or bed and breakfasts at www.manche-tourism.com or www.manche-locationvacances.com For weekly rentals and bed and breakfast accommodation provided by the Gîtes de France or Clévacances groups, go to +33 (0)233 56 28 80 or by email to mancheresa@cg50.fr To find out about what to do and see in la Manche ask for our brochures “Places to Visit” and “Activities” or go to our website www.manche-tourism.com [31]
LIST OF TOURIST OFFICES open all year round
open in season
AGON-COUTAINVILLE 50230 OFFICE DE TOURISME 2 place du 28 Juillet 1944 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 76 67 30 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 76 67 31 contact@coutainville.com www.coutainville.com AVRANCHES 50302 OFFICE DE TOURISME MUNICIPAL Hôtel de Ville - BP 238 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 58 00 22 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 68 13 29 tourisme@avranches.fr www.ot-avranches.com BARFLEUR 50760 OFFICE DE TOURISME 2 rond point le Conquérant Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 54 02 48 office.tourisme.barfleur@wanadoo.fr www.ville-barfleur.fr BARNEVILLE-CARTERET 50270 OFFICE DE TOURISME 10 rue des Ecoles - BP 101 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 04 90 58 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 04 93 24 tourisme@barneville-carteret.fr www.barneville-carteret.fr BEAUMONT-HAGUE 50440 OFFICE DE TOURISME DE LA HAGUE Rue Jallot - BP 119 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 52 74 94 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 01 86 11 accueil@lahague.org www.lahague-tourisme.com BLAINVILLE-SUR-MER 50560 OFFICE DE TOURISME 12 bis route de la Mer Tel. +33 (0)2 33 07 90 89 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 47 97 93 contact@ot-blainvillesurmer.com www.ot-blainvillesurmer.com BRÉCEY 50370 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE BRÉCEY-VAL DE SÉE 29 place de l'Hôtel de Ville Tel. +33 (0)2 33 89 21 13 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 89 21 19 contact@tourisme-brecey.com www.tourisme-brecey.com BRÉHAL 50290 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE BRÉHAL Rue du Général de Gaulle - BP 10 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 90 07 95 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 50 51 98 tourism.canton.brehal@wanadoo.fr www.otcb.fr BRETTEVILLE-SUR-AY 50430 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Mairie - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 07 84 18 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 07 10 67 si-brettevillesuray@wanadoo.fr BRICQUEBEC 50260 OFFICE DE TOURISME 13 place Sainte-Anne Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 52 21 65 bricquebec.ot@wanadoo.fr www.ville-bricquebec.fr CARENTAN 50500 OFFICE DE TOURISME DES MARAIS DE CARENTAN Boulevard de Verdun - BP 204 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 71 23 50 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 42 74 01 info@ot-carentan.frwww.ot-carentan.fr CAROLLES 50740 OFFICE DE TOURISME 33 bis rue de la Poste Tel. +33 (0)2 33 61 92 88 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 90 11 37 carolles.tourisme@wanadoo.fr www.ville-carolles.fr CERISY-LA-SALLE 50210 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE CERISY-LA-SALLE 7 rue des Juifs Tel. +33 (0)2 33 76 63 30 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 76 63 39 syndicat.initiative.cerisy@wanadoo.fr www.cc-cerisylasalle.fr CHERBOURG-OCTEVILLE 50100 MAISON DU TOURISME DE CHERBOURG ET DU HAUT-COTENTIN 2 quai Alexandre III Tel. +33 (0)2 33 93 52 02 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 53 66 97 tourisme@ot-cherbourg-cotentin.fr www.ot-cherbourg-cotentin.fr COUTANCES 50200 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU PAYS DE COUTANCES Place Georges Leclerc Tel. +33 (0)2 33 19 08 10 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 19 08 19 tourisme-coutances@wanadoo.fr www.coutances.fr CRÉANCES 50710 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Le Haut Chemin - Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 45 05 71 DENNEVILLE 50580 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Rue de la Mer - BP 01 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 07 58 58 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 95 26 84 si.accueil@denneville.com DONVILLE-LES-BAINS 50350 OFFICE DE TOURISME 95 ter route de Coutances Tel. +33 (0)2 33 50 12 91 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 91 28 55 oftour.donville-les-bains@wanadoo.fr DUCEY 50220 OFFICE DE TOURISME 4 rue du Génie Tel. +33 (0)2 33 60 21 53 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 60 54 07 ducey.tourisme@wanadoo.fr www.ducey-tourisme.com
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FERMANVILLE 50840 OFFICE DE TOURISME INTERCOMMUNAL COTENTIN-VAL DE SAIRE Vallée des Moulins Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 54 61 12 tourisme.fermanville@wanadoo.fr www.tourisme-fermanville.new.fr GAVRAY 50450 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE DU CANTON DE GAVRAY Place de la Bascule Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 50 10 10 tourisme@gavray.net GOUVILLE-SUR-MER 50560 OFFICE DE TOURISME Rue du Nord Tel. +33 (0)2 33 47 84 33 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 47 93 20 gouville.ot@wanadoo.fr http://ot.gouvillesurmer.free.fr GRANVILLE 50406 OFFICE MUNICIPAL DE TOURISME 4 cours Jonville - BP 621 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 91 30 03 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 91 30 19 office-tourisme@ville-granville.fr www.granville-tourisme.fr HAUTEVILLE-SUR-MER 50590 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE MONTMARTIN-SUR-MER 10 avenue de l'Aumesle Tel. +33 (0)2 33 47 51 80 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 47 38 37 tourisme-montmartin@wanadoo.fr www.otcm.fr JULLOUVILLE 50610 OFFICE DE TOURISME Place de la Gare - BP 14 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 61 82 48 otjullou@club-internet.fr www.jullouville.com LA HAYE-DU-PUITS 50250 OFFICE DE TOURISME DE LA CTÉ DE COMMUNES DE LA HAYE-DU-PUITS 5 rue Emile Poirier Tel. +33 (0)2 33 46 01 42 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 46 39 99 o.t.lahayedupuits@aliceadsl.fr www.ot-lahayedupuits.com LA HAYE-PESNEL 50320 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Rue de la Libération Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 90 75 02 sicant.haye-pesnel@wanadoo.fr LE MONT SAINT-MICHEL 50170 OFFICE DE TOURISME BP 4 - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 60 14 30 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 60 06 75 ot.mont.saint.michel@wanadoo.fr www.ot-montsaintmichel.com LES PIEUX 50340 POINT INFORMATION TOURISME 31 route de Flamanville Tel. +33 (0)2 33 87 68 00 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 52 93 66 tourisme.lespieux@wanadoo.fr tourisme-lespieux.com LESSAY 50430 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE COMMUNAUTAIRE DU CANTON DE LESSAY 11 place Saint Cloud - BP 26 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 45 14 34 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 45 77 17 info@canton-lessay.com www.canton-lessay.com MARIGNY 50570 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE DE LA CTÉ DE COMMUNES DE MARIGNY 1 rue Auguste Eudeline Tel. +33 (0)2 33 55 08 13 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 55 69 80 contact@si-marigny.fr www.si-marigny.fr MONTEBOURG 50310 OFFICE DE TOURISME INTERCOMMUNAL DE MONTEBOURG 2 place Charles de Gaulle Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 41 15 73 ot.montebourg@orange.fr www.officetourismemontebourg.fr MORTAIN 50140 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE MORTAIN Rue du Bourg Lopin Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 59 19 74 mortain.tourisme@wanadoo.fr www.ville-mortain.fr PERCY 50410 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Communauté de Communes Tel. +33 (0)2 33 61 29 61 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 61 92 19 accueil@cc-percy.fr PIROU 50770 OFFICE MUNICIPAL DE TOURISME 46 place des Bocagers - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 46 30 47 PONTORSON 50170 OFFICE DE TOURISME Place de l'Hôtel de Ville Tel. +33 (0)2 33 60 20 65 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 60 85 67 tourisme.pontorson@wanadoo.fr www.mont-saint-michel-baie.com PORTBAIL 50580 OFFICE DE TOURISME 26 rue Philippe Lebel - BP 3 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 04 03 07 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 04 94 66 tourisme.portbail@wanadoo.fr www.portbail.org
QUETTEHOU 50630 OFFICE DE TOURISME Place de la Mairie - Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 43 63 21 QUINÉVILLE 50310 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE Mairie - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 94 46 70 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 21 61 39 REGNÉVILLE-SUR-MER 50590 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE 8 rue du Port - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 45 88 71 SAINT-GERMAIN-SUR-AY PLAGE 50430 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE 1 rue Renard - Tel. +33 (0)2 33 07 02 75 tourisme-saintgermainsuray@wanadoo.fr SAINT-HILAIRE-DU-HARCOUËT 50600 OFFICE DE TOURISME Place du Bassin Tel. +33 (0)2 33 79 38 88 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 79 38 89 office.tourisme@st-hilaire.fr www.st-hilaire.fr SAINT-JAMES 50240 OFFICE DE TOURISME COMMUNAUTAIRE DE SAINT-JAMES 39 rue de la Libération Tel. +33 (0)2 33 89 62 38 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 89 62 09 contact@cdc-saintjames.org. www.cdc-saintjames.org SAINT-JEAN-LE-THOMAS 50530 SYNDICAT D'INITIATIVE 21 place Pierre le Jaudet - Tel./Fax +33 (0)2 33 70 90 71 stjlethomas@wanadoo.fr www.stjeanlethomas.com SAINT-LÔ 50010 OFFICE DE TOURISME DE LA COMMUNAUTÉ DE COMMUNES DE L'AGGLOMÉRATION SAINT-LOISE Place du Général de Gaulle - BP 330 Tel. +33 (0)2 14 29 00 17 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 77 60 36 sce.tourisme@saint-lo.fr www.saint-lo.fr SAINT-PAIR-SUR-MER 50380 OFFICE DE TOURISME 85 rue de Granville Tel. +33 (0)2 33 50 52 77 offitour.st.pair.s.mer@wanadoo.fr www.saintpairsurmer.com SAINT-PIERRE-ÉGLISE 50330 OFFICE DE TOURISME INTERCOMMUNAL COTENTIN-VAL DE SAIRE 23 place Abbé Saint Pierre Tel. +33 (0)2 33 54 37 20 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 20 10 79 tourisme.saint-pierre-eglise@wanadoo.fr SAINT-SAUVEUR-LE-VICOMTE 50390 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE SAINT-SAUVEUR-LE-VICOMTE Le Vieux Château Tel. +33 (0)2 33 21 50 44 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 21 39 29 ot.ssv@wanadoo.fr http://saintsauveurlevicomte.stationverte.com SAINT-SAUVEUR-LENDELIN 50490 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE SAINT-SAUVEUR-LENDELIN 1 rue du 8 Mai 1945 Tel. +33 (0)2 33 19 19 24 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 19 19 25 cc.st-sauveur-lendelin@wanadoo.fr SAINT-VAAST-LA-HOUGUE 50550 OFFICE DE TOURISME INTERCOMMUNAL DE SAINT-VAAST / RÉVILLE 1 place du Général de Gaulle Tel. +33 (0)2 33 23 19 32 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 54 41 37 office-de-tourisme@saint-vaast-reville.com www.saint-vaast-reville.com SAINTE-MÈRE-ÉGLISE 50480 OFFICE DE TOURISME COMMUNAUTAIRE DE SAINTE-MÈRE-ÉGLISE 6 rue Eisenhower Tel. +33 (0)2 33 21 00 33 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 21 53 91 ot@ccsme.fr www.sainte-mere-eglise.info SOURDEVAL 50150 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE SOURDEVAL Jardin de l'Europe Tel. +33 (0)2 33 79 35 61 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 79 35 59 otsourdeval@wanadoo.fr www.sourdeval.org TORIGNI-SUR-VIRE 50160 OFFICE DE TOURISME DU CANTON DE TORIGNI-SUR-VIRE 1 rue Victor Hugo Tel. +33 (0)2 33 77 42 22 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 77 42 20 torigni.tourisme@wanadoo.fr www.ot-torigni.fr VALOGNES 50700 OFFICE DE TOURISME INTERCOMMUNAL DU BOCAGE VALOGNAIS Place du Château Tel. +33 (0)2 33 40 11 55 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 40 00 04 contact@otbv.fr www.otbv.fr VILLEDIEU-LES-POÊLES 50800 OFFICE DE TOURISME 43 place de la République Tel. +33 (0)2 33 61 05 69 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 91 71 79 contact@ot-villedieu.fr www.ot-villedieu.fr DEPARTMENTAL TOURIST POINTS OF INFORMATION AIRE DE LA VALLÉE DE LA VIRE 50420 GOUVETS Tel. +33 (0)2 33 77 11 50 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 77 11 59 aire.gouvets@cg50.fr AIRE DU MONT SAINT-MICHEL 50240 SAINT-AUBIN-DE-TERREGATTE Tel. +33 (0)2 33 89 00 14 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 89 00 15 airemontsaintmichel@cg50.fr
Beach huts at Gouville-sur-Mer
COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL DU TOURISME Maison du Département - 50008 SAINT-LÔ Cedex Tel. +33 (0)2 33 05 98 70 - Fax +33 (0)2 33 56 07 03 manchetourisme@cg50.fr www.manche-tourism.com
- Saint-Lô - 02 33 05 75 81 - 12/09
MANCHE TOURISME