What to do in La Manche

All our suggestions to discover the Norman peninsula

La Manche is full of places that are as inspiring as they are breathtaking; it’s a place with endless possibilities! From the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel to the treasures of the Cotentin Peninsula, or an escapade to the islands, discover the charm of this unspoilt territory. Whether you want to go hiking, try watersports or enjoy one of the festivals, follow the guide to visit La Manche.

Outdoor activities

Either walking, running or pedalling, discover the wide open spaces of La Manche as you explore the different trails. La Manche is also the perfect place to try watersports: dive right in!

Hiking

La Manche has lots of different hiking paths, including the GR®223, greenways and towpaths.

Go hiking

Cycling

With more than 1 200 km of bike routes, La Manche is a great place for cycling. Several major routes go through the territory.

Go cycling

Watersports

La Manche is an ideal maritime destination. The sea is omnipresent, with plenty of opportunities to try different watersports.

Try watersports

Must-see places

Between land and sea, La Manche is full of hidden gems. Some have marked the history of the territory and shaped its identity. From the most famous, like Mont Saint-Michel and its bay, to the most natural, like the Côte des Havres, discover the most emblematic places in La Manche. These places are what gives the territory its special character and unique charm. During your visit, take time to also discover the traditional know-how of our region.

Mont Saint-Michel and its bay

The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, its huge bay, the spring tides: there’s so much to discover!

Mont Saint-Michel and its bay

D-Day

La Manche is a territory marked by the Second World War and the Allied landings. Find out all the secrets of its history.

D-Day in Normandy

Must-see spots

Between land and sea, or at the heart of the bocage countryside of La Manche, our peninsula is full of gems for you to visit.

The most beautiful sites

Products made in La Manche

Products from the land or the sea for you to sample.

Local products and crafts

The coast of La Manche

Explore its treasures

Beautiful beaches, unspoilt coves, the sea stretching to the horizon: with 674 km of coasts, La Manche lives to the rhythm of the tides that shape its landscapes. Enjoying the fresh air, fishing, sampling seafood, sailing to the islands, or testing outdoor activities: this is what the coast of La Manche holds in store for you.

Big events

Festivals

In La Manche, lots of different festivals are held every year, some of which are famous throughout France, such as Les Papillons de Nuit. Get ready to party at a festival, or to test yourself at one of the big sporting competitions.

Big festive events

Nautical events

A boardsports festival, a yacht race, a swimming race: lots of different nautical events are held in La Manche.

Nautical events

Sporting events

Test your limits and push yourself at the different sporting events in the department.

Sporting events

Other things to do:

Agenda

Find all the events, small events or large festivals. All punctuate the local life

Agenda

Spend time with your family

A trip to the zoo, walks in the fresh air, theme parks and welcoming seaside resorts: La Manche is the ideal destination for holidays with your kids. See all our suggestions for family activities.

Try watersports

Kayaking, sand yachting, an introduction to surfing: have fun with your little ones.

Family watersports

See the sites

Crossing the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, visiting Champrepus Zoo or La Cité de la Mer: there are plenty of family days out for you to choose from.

Family activities

Go cycling

Hop on your bike and head off to explore the cycle routes of La Manche. A great way to show your children a different side to the territory.

Cycling in La Manche

Explore history

The different D-Day museums teach children about the Second World War in a fun and interesting way.

D-Day with your family

Stay with your family

The coast and seaside resorts of La Manche await you for an unforgettable family holiday!

Seaside resorts

Where to stay?

Whether you're looking for a big gîte for a holiday with friends or a cosy retreat for a romantic weekend, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in La Manche. Here’s our selection.

Where to eat?

Fine dining or a relaxed bite to eat, a white tablecloth or sand between your toes, a tasty treat or a seafood feast: here are our top picks!