The GR 223 is called
“Sentier des Douaniers
A tree with red and white hiking markers. In the background, a family walks along a forest trail. The path is surrounded by trees and tall grass.
Four people are walking through a field of wildflowers under a blue sky with a few clouds. They are dressed in hiking clothes and appear to be enjoying their outdoor adventure.GR 223
10 things you need to know about the circuit
A tree with red and white hiking markers. In the background, a family walks along a forest trail. The path is surrounded by trees and tall grass.Trail length
The GR 223 is 620 km long. It links Honfleur (Calvados) to Avranches (Manche), skirting the Normandy coast and passing through some of the most emblematic sites in France, with breathtaking panoramic views!
A white lighthouse with a red roof is visible in the background. In the foreground, a wooden post marked with a red and white stripe stands in front of green bushes. The sky is partially cloudy with white and blue clouds.In the story
The trail is named “Sentier des douaniers” (Customs Officers’ Trail) because it largely follows the old path used by customs officers in the 19th century to monitor the coast and combat smuggling. Customs officers patrolled the coastline on foot, using elevated paths to get a clear view of the sea and detect smugglers. These paths were gradually abandoned as surveillance methods evolved, but they have been rehabilitated as hiking trails, including the GR 223 on our coast.
Flexibility
The Customs Trail can be walked in its entirety, or in sections. Some stages are suitable for families, others for experienced walkers. There’s something for every level of hiker.
Three people are walking on a grassy path towards a small red and white lighthouse. The sky is partly cloudy, and the landscape is open and green.Stages in Coutances mer et bocage
3 stages cross our territory
- A stage from Pirou to Agon-Coutainville n°17
- A stage from Agon-Coutainville to Regnéville-sur-Mer n°18
- A stage from Regnéville-sur-Mer to Saint-Martin de Bréhal n°19
A full article detailing the stages on our territory can be found in our experiences section.
Several people are gathered around a large circular map on an outdoor bench. One of them, wearing a red jacket, is pointing at a spot on the map. The others, equipped with hiking poles, appear to be discussing their route. The setting seems to be a natural area with hills and hiking trails.Number of stages
The GR 223 has a total of 24 stages ranging from 15 to 30 kilometers. It takes about 1 month to complete the entire route.
GR 223 in La Manche
In the Manche department, the trail is called “Tour du Cotentin”. It covers a total distance of 446 km and can be completed in around 23 days.
A wide variety of landscapes
The trail passes through numerous landscapes, offering magnificent panoramas. You’ll cross moors, dunes, skirt cliffs, pass through a nature park, see harbors, capes, shores, meadows, harbors… You’re in for a real treat!
Two people are holding a map and pointing at a specific route. One is wearing a pink shirt and the other a white shirt with visible tattoos. The map shows areas outlined in red and white areas, with annotations in the top right corner.La Malle postale
La Malle Postale specializes in transporting luggage and people for hikers. It allows you to go hiking without having to carry all your belongings. Luggage transport from one accommodation to another, shuttles for hikers. A practical way to enjoy your hike without constraints!
A wide variety of landscapes
The FFRandonnée topo-guide is an official guide that provides the detailed route of the GR with precise maps and directions, recommended stages with times and distances, points of interest, accommodation and services. An indispensable tool for organizing and following your itinerary!
