Mont Saint-Michel with visitors on the beachMont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey, stands on a rocky island surrounded by the beach. Visitors walk on the sand, and the abbey is visible with its stone walls and pointed roofs. The sky is partly cloudy.
©Mont Saint-Michel stands proudly on its island, surrounded by the beach.

Explore La Manche from Coutances

Spread the word in the department!

Our tips for exploring La Manche from Coutances: the must-see sites just a few minutes / hours from your holiday home!

Contents

Heading south

1h15 from Coutances

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-see jewel in the English Channel. Majestic at high tide, mysterious at low tide, the Mont and its bay offer a natural spectacle that is unique in the world. Stroll through the medieval streets, climb up to the abbey and admire the breathtaking view over the bay. For the more curious, a guided walk through the quicksand is a fun and unforgettable experience.

The Tourist Office’s advice:

Go early in the morning or at the end of the day to avoid the crowds, and check the tide times before your visit to make the most of the show.


45 min from Coutances

Granville is an ideal destination for a seaside getaway in a popular resort. Nicknamed the “Monaco of the North”, this port town combines historic charm, lively beaches and a sea-scented atmosphere. Take a stroll through the walled Haute Ville, visit the Christian Dior museum nestled in his childhood villa overlooking the sea, or stroll along the quays and markets. In summer, the boats to the Chausey Islands are just a few minutes away for an unforgettable island adventure.

The Tourist Office’s advice:

In high season, visit during the week and arrive in the morning to enjoy the museum and the town centre at your leisure, before savouring an ice cream on the harbour or on the Gousset flat overlooking the sea.

Northbound

1h15 /1h30 from Coutances

Set off to discover places steeped in emotion and history: the D-Day landing beaches, and in particular Utah Beach. This emblematic site of 6 June 1944 is the ideal starting point for a day rich in discovery and immersion in a tumultuous past. Visit the D-Day Museum at Utah Beach, take a stroll along the beach where the Allied troops landed, then continue on to Sainte-Mère-Église, famous for the parachutist who still hangs from its bell tower. The Airborne Museum is a must-see for young and old alike.

Tip from the Tourist Office:

Combine Utah Beach and the town of Sainte-Mère-Église (and its museums) on the same day, and plan a picnic or a break in a local restaurant to vary the pleasures.


1h30 from Coutances

Looking for a corner of Normandy that’s unspoilt, peaceful and full of character? Then head to the Val de Saire, just around the corner, for an escape between land and sea. At the heart of this region lies Barfleur, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, with its small granite port, its traditional houses and colourful boats, and its distinctive church. Extend your walk to the Gatteville lighthouse, one of the highest in Europe, then treat yourself to Barfleur mussels or local oysters in an oyster hut. A simple, authentic day out.

Tip from the Tourist Office:

Make a diversion to nearby Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue to visit the Vauban towers (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site) or set sail for the island of Tatihou at low tide. You won’t be disappointed!


1h30 from Coutances

Set off on a captivating adventure to Cherbourg, a major port city in the north of the English Channel. Its undisputed star? The Cité de la Mer, a spectacular site that will appeal to children and adults alike. Explore the mysteries of the oceans in one of France’s most beautiful aquariums, climb aboard the Redoutable, the world’s largest visitable submarine, and plunge into the history of the Titanic in an unforgettable immersive tour – that’s the Cité de la Mer! Take the opportunity to discover the military port, stroll through the shopping streets or stroll through the parks of the Château des Ravalet, just a few minutes from the centre, or take in the breathtaking views from the Fort du Roule.

Tip from the Tourist Office:

Buy your tickets for the Cité de la Mer at the Coutances Tourisme offices (save time at the entrance), and allow at least 3 hours to make the most of all the museum’s exhibitions and activities.

Cap nature

1h40 from Coutances

Wide open spaces and breathtaking panoramas await you in the north-west of La Manche, in La Hague. This corner of the Normandy world offers spectacular, unspoilt scenery of cliffs, moors and secret coves, known as Norman Ireland. The Nez de Jobourg, over 120 metres high, is one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the French coast. The customs path takes you along these breathtaking cliffs as far as Vauville cove and Goury harbour. It’s the perfect place to hike, breathe and unwind.

Tip from the Tourist Office:

Remember to bring good walking shoes and check the weather forecast before setting off – the changing light makes the scenery even more striking, especially in the late afternoon. Special mention should be made of Port Racine, the smallest port in France!

1h15 from Coutances

Welcome to the Cotentin marshes, set in the heart of nature and surrounded by unique landscapes. At the heart of a regional nature park rich in biodiversity and rural heritage. Depending on the season, the marshes can be explored on foot, by bike, by boat or even by float during the “marsh moult”, when the water covers the meadows. It’s an ideal playground for bird-watching, plant-watching and family outings.

Tip from the Tourist Office:

Start at the Maison du Parc in Carentan-Les-Marais to choose a tour suited to your tribe, and don’t forget your binoculars to enjoy the natural spectacle!

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