Off the beaten track in summer

Our suggestions on how to avoid the crowds in La Manche

Are you planning a holiday in La Manche this summer? Do you want to reconnect with nature while avoiding the crowds? Would you like to feel you’re alone in the world and enjoy the unspoilt beauty of the territory? Then how about a bike ride along peaceful country lanes, a boat trip on the marshes, a round of golf, a fun château visit or an encounter with a cider producer? See all our suggestions for ways to enjoy La Manche while avoiding the crowds.

Meet the cider producers

Cider is one of the many signature products of La Manche. Lots of producers open up their orchards in summer, and you can have a look round and find out about this ancient beverage and its secrets. You’ll learn all about the history of cider production and of course have the opportunity to sample the delicious products on offer!

Cider products

Below are some producers who organise visits :

Cycle in the great outdoors

Hop on your bike and head off to explore the country lanes of La Manche. We suggest a bike ride to discover the six “station verte” labelled towns of the department. This 195 km loop connects Saint-Jean-le-Thomas to Brécey via Pontorson, Ducey-les-Chéris, Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouët and Mortain. For all levels, this route is the opportunity to discover the countryside of La Manche and its natural treasures. If you don’t fancy tackling the whole itinerary, you can just do a few smaller parts. Let your legs decide for you!

Practical information about this bike ride

Photo, © Captain Yvon
Photo, © Xavier Lachenaud
Photo, © Captain Yvon

Discover the marshes by boat

CARENTAN-LES-MARAIS

A trip in an electric boat with the Bateliers du Cotentin is the perfect opportunity to observe the plants and wildlife found in this vast natural area. The boats have five or nine seats, and you can either explore the marshes at your own pace, or head off with a guide, who will be happy to tell you all about the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin Regional Nature Park. The ideal way to reconnect with nature!

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Test an e-scooter

in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel

Saint-Jean-le-Thomas

You can’t come to La Manche without discovering the magnificent Bay of Mont Saint-Michel! But if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds that flock to this mythical place every year in summer, we have just the solution. With Trott’in Mont Saint-Michel, you can jump on an off-road e-scooter to admire a breathtaking view of Mont Saint-Michel from the heart of the bay. Several options are available: on your own, guided by an app, or with a personal guide who’ll show you the best spots in this exceptional natural area. Enjoy an adventure off the beaten track!

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Hike in a haven of greenery

Grab your walking shoes and head off on this 7 km loop to explore the Mortain region and its magical waterfalls. In the heart of La Manche, this unspoilt setting is the perfect walk for nature lovers. Not far from the waterfalls, you’ll find the Fosse Arthour, another natural site that’s steeped in legend. The area also offers good bike rides and climbing sites: lots of ways for you to get away from it all in the great outdoors!

Les cascades dans le Mortainais MORTAIN-BOCAGE

Walking

Have fun at the Château des Montgommery

Ducey-les-Chéris

On the edge of the town of Ducey, this 17th century château is full of charm, with its painted ceilings, monumental staircase and well-preserved murals. In summer, you can try the Ducey Code experience, a life-size police investigation game during which you’ll discover all the secrets of this historic monument. Great fun for all the family!

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Set sail

for Chausey, the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel or the Cotentin Peninsula

To discover these unmissable spots in La Manche while avoiding the crowds, we recommend you book a nautical activity. In a kayak or on an old boat, head to Chausey or navigate the Sélune River with a fantastic view of Mont Saint-Michel. Different kayak outings are available to Chausey and Mont Saint-Michel. On the Cotentin Peninsula, you can try sand yachting at Sciotot beach or head out on the water to explore Cherbourg harbour.

Boat trips and excursions

Play golf

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned golfer, grab your clubs and head to one of the eight golf courses of La Manche. On the edge of a forest, with a view of the Channel Islands or by the sea, you’ll love the diversity and unique features of La Manche golf courses. Be sure to book before you arrive.

Golf courses in La Manche