The Cotentin Loop

Carentan, nestled in the heart of the Cotentin and Bessin marshes, charms visitors with its canals and lively marina. Steeped in the history of the D-Day landings, the town offers museums and memorials to explore.

Distance to cover: 46km (28,5 miles)

Between Carentan and Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, the landscape alternates between marshes, hedgerows and vast agricultural expanses typical of the Cotentin. Quiet roads lead to charming villages dotted with ancient churches and discreet manor houses. The coast gradually reveals itself, with its unspoilt beaches and natural harbours where you can encounter fishermen and migratory birds. As you approach Saint-Vaast, the horizon opens up onto the sea and the island of Tatihou.

Distance to cover: 47km (29 miles)

Between Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue and Cherbourg, the road runs along a wild and unspoilt coastline, dotted with rocky headlands and hidden coves. You will pass through Barfleur, a charming fishing port built of granite, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France.Further on, the imposing Gatteville lighthouse, one of the tallest in Europe, has been watching over sailors for centuries. The seascapes unfold, combining cliffs, moors and windswept beaches. As you approach Cherbourg, the view opens up onto one of the largest artificial harbours in the world, a truly spectacular arrival.

Distance to cover: 35km (21,7 miles)

This short stage will allow you to discover a little more of Cherbourg: the opera district, the covered market, the fishing port and, of course, La Cité de la Mer in the former transatlantic terminal. It was from here that the Titanic set sail on its final voyage in 1912.
Half a day’s cycling should be enough to reach the north-western tip of the Cotentin and Cap de la Hague. The Millet Museum, Prévert’s house, the port of Omonville-la-Rogue and Port Racine are all on your route.

Distance to cover: 52km (32,3 miles)

Today, you will follow the coastal road, which offers breathtaking views of the Channel Islands. Starting from Goury lighthouse, you will follow the wild coastline southwards: Ecalgrain Bay, Nez de Jobourg, one of the highest cliffs in Europe, Anse de Vauville and its castle, the dunes of Biville, Cap de Rozel and finally the dune massif of Hattainville before arriving at the port of Barneville.

Distance to cover: 48 or 60km ( 29,8 or 37,2 miles)

Further south, you will want to linger in the small town of Porbail, at least long enough to enjoy a coffee at the harbour. You will then discover the typical ports of western Cotentin, where rivers flow into the sea, the grass is salty and sheep graze peacefully. You will then leave the coast to discover the magnificent bocage landscape of La Manche, a land of livestock farming. Lessay has long been known in rural circles as the most important livestock market in the region. The last fifteen kilometres of your journey will take you along small roads dotted with farms, streams, green pastures and isolated hamlets. Far from the beaten track, in a truly authentic atmosphere.

End of the trip after breakfast.