Unusual D-Day activities in La Manche

Original ways to discover the history of D-Day
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Photo, © Captain Yvon

La Manche has lots of sites and museums that tell the story of the Second World War and D-Day, the day that made history in 1944. Are you looking for original ways to find out about the landings and the Battle of Normandy? On bike, on foot, in an authentic jeep or from the sky, follow in the footsteps of the civilians and soldiers of the time. In the heart of diverse landscapes, learn about the dramatic events that played out here. With detailed maps, mobile applications, guided tours and escape games, there are lots of exciting ways to discover this heritage. See all our suggestions on unusual D-Day activities in La Manche.

Take a ride in an authentic jeep along the D-Day trail

Do you want to explore the unmissable D-Day sites in an old military vehicle? Then take a guided tour with Normandy Jeep Tours. A ride in an authentic jeep is a memorable experience. Between the beaches and the bocage landscapes, your guide will tell you some interesting stories and show you photos, and you’ll hear accounts from civilians and soldiers. Jump on board!

Normandy Jeep Tours

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Photo, © Normandy Jeep Tour

Cycle the VéloWestNormandy

Why not hop on your bike for an active way to discover the history of D-Day? Following the Véloroute, you’ll visit la Manche, exploring the emblematic D-Day sites all the way to Mont Saint-Michel. This cycle route is suited to all levels and is dotted with beautiful vistas of La Manche and interesting historical information. With a mix of greenways, country roads, nature, culture and heritage, prepare for an exceptional bike ride!

Major cycle routes

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    Photo, © Emmanuel Berthier pour l'EV4
  • Photo
    Photo, © Emmanuel Berthier pour l'EV4

Test Le Blockhaus escape game

Carentan les Marais

Plunge into the history of D-Day with this thematic escape game. Choose between three different rooms, all inspired by the historical events of the Normandy landings, and work with your team to solve the clues.

To discover D-Day in La Manche, choose between two rooms specific to the area: “Opération Fortitude” and “Le Loup Gris”. Step into the shoes of a French resistance fighter or a submariner, and head off on a mission from Utah Beach to Carentan, via Sainte-Mère-Eglise. The escape games include authentic objects for you to handle and facts inspired by real events. Suspense, strategy and clever thinking: the game is on!

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Photo, © Le Blockhaus Carentan

Follow the open-air museum itinerary, at the heart of the history of D-Day

This 50 km trail around Sainte-Mère-Eglise and Utah Beach takes you to see 11 strategic points of the Battle of Normandy. To follow this route, download the Kit’M application or hire a tablet from the Tourist Office, then follow the GPS, which will guide you from one point to another. When you get to each site, scan the QR code and you’ll hear the story of 6 June 1944 in La Manche, with archive images, videos and accounts. Enjoy this informative visit at your own pace.

Skydive over the landing site at Utah Beach

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Utah Beach, where the Allies landed on 6 June 1944. Try skydiving over this wild stretch of coastline between Sainte-Marie-du-Mont and Quinéville for a 360° panorama. From the sky, you can admire the stunning landscapes that were the setting for a turning point in history. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime!

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Photo, © Air Parachute Lessay
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Photo, © Xavier Lachenaud

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