Situated in the very north of France on the west of the Normandy peninsula, the department of Manche is all about one thing; the sea. In fact, the area takes its name from the French word for the English Channel. Although there are plenty of pleasant countryside villages, churches and abbeys when you get away from the coast, you are never more than a short distance from the Normandy beaches that are either famous for their natural scenery, unique attractions or historical significance.
There is no doubt what the main attraction is on the west coast of the peninsula. The iconic Mint St Michel has been drawing tourists and religious pilgrims to this part of France for centuries, and it remains a popular destination today. Reached by boat, the narrow streets and medieval buildings and chapels wind their way up the rocky island until you reach the abbey perched on top. If you prefer a gentler stroll, you can walk most of the way round the island on the ramparts of the town. Not only does this give you a great chance to explore the sights of Mont Saint Michel, but gives visitors a great view over the bay itself, back towards the French coast. Make a day of your visit and visit the world-famous Mere Poulard restaurant, which is well known for its impressive seafood omelettes.
Once back on shore, drive north of the Mont Saint Michel bay to the town of Granville, the “Monaco of the North”. Although smaller than its more famous namesake, the small fishing village has been a popular holiday resort since the early days of the twentieth century and is even home to one of the few casinos in Normandy! Built on a rocky promontory, the older upper streets and ramparts look down on the newer fishing port and beach areas.
Most visitors to the Marne region head straight for either Mont Saint Michel or the D-Day landing beaches on the east coast of the region. There are memorial sites on the Utah beach along with a museum telling the story of the infamous day, while the nearby towns of Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, Cherbourg-Octeville and Marigny also house museums, dedicated to aspects of Second World War history. A few miles inland of these famous beaches is the Sainte-Mere Church which became famous when a US paratrooper got his chute caught on the steeple and hung there for several hours feigning death. An effigy of the soldier hangs there to this day, while the town’s Airborne museum pays tribute to the US troops who liberated the area.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Manche? Then below is a selection of gites in Manche and villas in Manche that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
