Get ready for the first stage of the GR®223 in La Manche, covering 18 km between Pont du Vey and the marina in Carentan. These first kilometres have no particular difficulties: the path is relatively flat and mostly asphalt or earth. You’ll discover low-lying landscapes between polders, wetlands and dykes, with the sea as a backdrop.
The route passes close to the Pointe de Brévands and the bay of Les Veys. Several thousand birds overwinter in this exceptional natural site. It’s not unusual to see harbour seals here, with more than 30 of them now living in the bay. Be sure to use binoculars to avoid disturbing them.
Next, you’ll go along the canal to your finish at the marina in Carentan. The canal was built in the 19th century under Napoleon Bonaparte to connect Carentan to the sea. As you walk along the banks, you’ll find a fitness path, the Haut Dick lock and the canal bridge. The bridge is a unique engineering structure in France, with the RN13 road passing under the basin. At the lowest point, the road is 10 m below the level of the canal.
When you get to Carentan, stroll around the marina, which has room for up to 350 boats. A former trading port, the marina is unusual in that it’s located in the countryside, surrounded by fields and marshes. Next, spend the evening discovering Carentan’s heritage: the medieval arcades, the old Lavoir des Fontaines wash house, the shipowner’s house, and much more.
GR®223 - Isigny-sur-Mer - Carentan
ISIGNY-SUR-MER
Walking
GR®223
