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Mont-Saint-Michel Bay is an ever-changing complex of sandy shoals and impressive tides where the difference between high and low water can sometimes be as much as 45 feet! At low tide, the Mount loses its insularity as the sea withdraws far to the north, uncovering numerous pathways for adventurous travellers who wish to cross the vast expanse of the bay to the gates of the abbey. Whether you are crossing on foot or on horseback, make sure your traversée is a safe and enjoyable one by joining one of the many experienced and licensed Bay Guides. For those who love to travel in style, hiring a maringotte is a great option. These charming horse-drawn carriages were once the only comfortable means of transport for wealthy tourists commuting from the local train station to the foot of Mont-Saint-Michel.

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The Harbour Coast

Covering miles of luxurious sandy beaches, the Côte-des-Havres stretches far along the western edge of our province. As far as the eye can see, this golden border between land and sea remains unbroken, but for the occasional river flowing into the sea. Nestled on the seaward side of the River Sienne , Agon-Coutainville is a lively seaside town that enjoys a panoramic view of the Western Ocean. Among the beach culture of sunbathing and surfing, you may even spot a trainer out trotting his horse along the foreshore. Further north, the scenic town of Port-Bail is a small tidal harbour protected from the salty sea breeze by a complicated maze of dunes topped with sand-binding marram grass. Take a tip from the locals: go fishing for cockles and shrimps among the mussel farms during the spring low tides.

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Land’s End

Exposed to Atlantic winds and the ferocious tides of the Channel, the granite headland of Hague has developed a brutal, yet beautiful landscape on the western tip of Manche. Enjoy the exhilarating abruptness of the cliffs and steep-sided creeks of this “peninsula on a peninsula” that suddenly dissolves into the wide sandy beaches of Vauville and the rolling Biville Dunes. Picturesque minor roads bordered by dry stone walls, wind their way through the verdant valleys of its hinterland and through charming villages of typical West Country stone-tiled cottages. Hague has provided the inspiration for many illustrious artists, such as the surrealist poet Jacques Prévert and the allegorical painter Jean-François Millet. A region of extremes, Hague harbours the smallest port in France, Port Racine, and borders the most powerful tidal race in the English Channel.

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Coast of the Rising Sun


Through delightfully untouched farming villages, sheltered by woodland rich with wildlife, the River Saire meanders agreeably towards the east coast of the Cherbourg Peninsula . To the north of the valley, the tidal port of Barfleur gains its wealth from the sea and mussel dragging, whereas to the south, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue cultivates its famous oysters reputed to have a flavour akin to hazelnut. Whatever you do, do not miss the sun rise over the Isle of Tatihou, it is a magical place of exceptional 18th century architecture and infinite natural beauty. Steeped in history, which is amply described in local tourist centres, the east coast of Manche was the scene of events that were to change thrice the course of European history: in the times of William the Conqueror, Louis XIV and Winston Churchill.

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Home from Home

Imagine that you are on one of our sandy beaches that fringe our west coast. Look out to the horizon and you will see the beautiful islands of Jersey , Guernsey , Alderney and Sark lying tantalizingly close, almost within reach. Whether you are staying in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay or on the Côte-des-Havres, treat yourself to a day out in the famous Channel Islands where France meets Britain in a melting-pot of European culture. The enchanting ports of Granville, Barneville-Carteret, Port-Bail and Diélette all offer regular, fast and efficient ferry services to make your visit to the unforgettable anglo-normandes, only a few miles off the west coast of Manche, as pleasant and as care-free as possible.

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