Manche guide

Manche summary

Manche is the most western of the departments and reaches far into the English Channel (Manche) with 300km of coastline. The region pulses with the rhythm of the tides which have a drop of up to 14m in Granville, making for the greatest tidal drop anywhere in Europe.

Manche is defined by the sea, even on a still day the currents around Cap de la Hague bring the water to a tempest and there are thousands of berths for yachts along the coast. Wide sandy beaches some 20km in length characterize the coast only to be broken up by dramatic cliffs, some very high (120m) like the Nez de Jobourg and even in the Summer there is plenty of room.

Highlights

Villedieu les Poeles - visit the workshops of the bellmakers and coppersmiths

Phare de Gattevitte - a breathtaking view from the lighthouse at Pointe de Barfleur

Granville - Colorful fishing port with spectactularly placed upper town.

Le Mont St. Michel - the legendary monastery hill, visiting is a must

Coutances - the cathedral of Notre Dame counts as an architectural wonder

Half-island La Hague - idyllic postcard village set in picturesque heather landscape.