Manche Holiday Guide
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The Manche - an ideal holiday destination
The Manche is perhaps best known for the magical Mont St Michel, its acclaimed tourist attraction, but its towns, coast and countryside offer endless possibilities for discovering history, heritage, nature and enjoying outdoor activities.
Top 5 things to see and do in the Manche
1. Mont St Michel
Mont St Michel is one of the iconic sights of northern France. This magical Abbey, rising out of the sea like something out of a fairy tale, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and never fails to enchant. Be warned, though, the tides and quick sands around it are legendary, so follow the guides.
2. Discover the D-Day locations
Lower Normandy was the scene of many important battles and events of the Second World War, so take this opportunity to visit the beaches of the D-Day Landings and memorial sites around the coast.
3. Birdwatching
The marshy land around the coastline is the ideal spot for bird watchers to pursue their hobby, as many rare and beautiful species are attracted to this unique environment.
4. Dig for razor clams
The Normandy coast is noted for its shellfish, and there are many superb seafood restaurants where you can try the various local varieties and delicacies. Take a bucket and spade and head out for the sandy beaches where, if you are quick enough, you might be able to dig up and catch some delicious razor clams.
5. Ange Michel Amusement Park
If you have children in tow on your holiday in the Manche, try taking them for an unforgettable day out at the excellent Ange Michel Amusement Park. The activities on offer here include fairground rides, an aqua park with slides, a museum and much more.
Top 5 towns and cities in Manche
1. St Lô
St Lô is the capital city of the Manche, and is found in the east of the department, near the border with Calvados. In spite of bomb damage during the war, St Lô has preserved much of its heritage and has some lovely old buildings, ramparts, towers and some great museums. The national stud is another attraction for those who love to see magnificent horses.
2. Granville
Granville is a swish seaside resort and peninsula town that has something to appeal to all members of the family. Ladies will love the shopping, while evening entertainment offers bars, restaurants and a casino. The resort offers all the usual seaside fun and activities, while the old hilltop town has ramparts, authentic old streets, stunning views and lots of atmosphere.
3. Villedieu les Poêles
Following the French tradition of certain towns, which is to specialise in a particular product, Villedieu les Poêles is a fascinating place to visit. Dedicated to copper, this town presents its copper workshops, copper foundries, copper museum and numerous shops selling copper pots, pans and other products made from - you guessed it, copper!
4. Coutances
Best known for its superb Gothic cathedral, the town of Coutances is a lovely City of Art and History with much to see and do. Among its attractions are botanical gardens, an acclaimed jazz festival and an art museum in addition to shops, restaurants, a theatre, cinema and an ice rink.
5. Avranches
The town of Avranches, which is a pleasant town with stunning views of Mont St Michel, makes a good base for enjoying all the attractions of the department. Its most acclaimed feature is its manuscripts museum, which has a valuable collection of mediaeval illuminated manuscripts of Mont St Michel, kept here since the days of the French revolution.
Food and drink in the Manche
The department is famed for its cider, its shellfish, its apples, biscuits and dairy products. There are a number of top notch restaurants, and local produce can be purchased in the shops, on the market stalls and direct from farm shops.
How to get to the Manche
Taking the ferry from Britain to the ports of Cherbourg, Caen (Ouistreham) or St Malo is a good and easy way to access the Manche department. Alternatively, you can fly to Deauville in Calvados (City Jet - summer only), Rennes (Flybe) or Dinard (Aurigny, Ryanair), the latter two airports being in Brittany. Or of course you can take the train through the tunnel.
