A narrow path bordered by lush vegetation

A narrow and winding path is surrounded by lush and dense vegetation. The path walls are covered with climbing plants and shrubs. Sunlight filters through the foliage, creating patterns of light and shadow on the ground.

©

A mysterious path leads into dense and lush greenery.

|

Jim Prod

3 ideas for walks

In the bocage

The bocage: beautiful walks between rivers and pastures!

In the shade of sunken lanes, beside rivers teeming with fish, at the foot of monuments steeped in history… our bocage is full of nuggets worth discovering. In this new article, we offer you a few ideas for walks around the groves. Let yourself be guided by the advice offered below by our destination experts.

#1 - Saint-Gerbold Hermitage

In the heart of the countryside

The Saint-Gerbold hermitage is located in Gratot.

This former hermit’s house is a small monument lost in the middle of the fields just a few minutes from Gratot castle.

Built in the 15th century, this building was originally a chapel, which was transformed over time into a hermitage.

A footpath links the hermitage to Gratot castle, providing an opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside, lush nature and small heritage features.

There are also a number of interpretation panels around the building to help you find out more about the hermitages, how they function and the way of life of the hermits. A great way to combine nature and heritage discovery in a single outing!

In complete safety in the great outdoors

#2 - Greenways

Greenways: cycling, running and walking on a safe route

In Cambernon or Coutances, on the way to the sea or towards Cherbourg, the greenways allow everyone to stretch their legs and go for a ride on foot, bike or mountain bike. In a rural but very green landscape, you’ll have plenty of time to wander along this path, which used to be a railway.

There are several footpaths around Coutances:

    • From Coutances (near the bowling alley) towards the sea
    • From Cambernon towards Periers and Cherbourg

> Visit our dedicated page to view/download the Greenways fact sheets with all the practical information!

#3 - A walking trail

Hauteville-la-Guichard

Les Tancrèdes hiking trail: Hauteville La Guichard

Fancy going for a hike? We’ve got the perfect route for you to immerse yourself in the bocage. This 20km trail is just a short walk from the Tancrède museum. This museum tells the story of the sons of Tancred who set out to conquer Italy, and Sicily in particular, in the 11th century. The museum also features a magnificent medieval-inspired garden.

Castle ruins, church, druidic site, museum, dovecote, beautiful panorama… as you wander along the embankments, you’ll be able to admire the small monuments of the local heritage, as well as a wealth of biodiversity.

> All our walking routes are available on the website free of charge. For the trail mentioned above, see fact sheet 17.

Out and about

Other discoveries