France: get a breath of fresh air in La Manche
La Manche, that is the name of a peninsula in Normandy, the western part of which is affectionately called the Côte des Isles. And not for nothing, because from here the ferries to the Channel Islands. Nice for a mini cruise!
The La Manche peninsula is a wonderful summer getaway destination where you can enjoy cycling. From Blainville-sur-mer you follow the coastline north, towards Portbail. A mainly flat route that can also be done with Dutch calves.
Cycling route Voie Verte
You drive through nice villages with stone houses and white shutters and in Lessay you can follow the Voie Verte: a cycle route over an old railway line. Rails and sleepers have made way for paved paths. Also sandy paths, such as at Portbail: a beautiful village with restored houses. You can also spot birds nearby at the inland lake. Here you will also notice the tides of the Atlantic Ocean, because the cycle path is flooded during spring tides.
The nice thing about such a coastal route is that you come across nice restaurants everywhere, with fresh fish on the menu. And Fruits de Mer of course: generous dishes with fresh crustaceans and shellfish. And what about oysters: here you stumble across one oyster farm after another, where you can also taste this delicacy.
Trip to England
You can easily take two triple jumps from your French holiday to a trip to England. Or, more specifically: to the island of Jersey. The ferry departs from the port of Carteret and you will be on British soil within an hour. Although it still feels quite French when the lavender fields bloom. And the Phare de Corbière doesn't sound very British either, so to speak.
But the lighthouse on the most southwestern point of the island is a nice destination. If only to see how the waves spread on the sharp rocks. A walk has been set out near the lighthouse, the Corbière Walk. Just like on the mainland, you follow the route where a slow train used to run, past tropical plants and pine trees. In the south of the island you will find Beau Bay, an almost tropical oasis with a beautiful sandy beach and an azure blue sea - you have to see it to believe it.
Tips on La Manche
You must do it
Cycling along the Voie Verte, an old railway line that has been transformed into a cycling and walking route. Pretty flat and beautiful views!
With the children
Stroll through the oldest castle in Normandy, Château Pirou. The castle houses 3 centuries of history and is open from May to September.
You have to taste it
Fruits de Mer of course: a full platter of fresh crustaceans and shellfish. With a little luck, you'll see the mini crabs flying across your plate...
Wide range
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