Holiday cottage in Barfleur
Have a romantic break in Barfleur, one of the « Loveliest Villages in France ».
A gourmet holiday to recharge your batteries !
Have a romantic break in Barfleur, one of the « Loveliest Villages in France ». A seaside holiday full of delicious treats and fresh air ! It is impossible to leave this beautiful area without tasting famous Barfleur wild mussels or a seafood platter. The return of the fishing boats back to harbour every day is a wonderful sight to watch. A gite holiday in Barfleur is a guarantee of a romantic, genuine holiday, full of charm in an unspoilt, natural setting.
What to see and do in Barfleur
Take time to visit the picturesque little village of Barfleur, stroll through its narrow streets, around the harbour and behind the church to soak up the wonderful atmosphere. There are also lots of walks along the east coast of the Cotentin thanks to the GR223 hiking path which runs all around the peninsula.
In summer, the little village, nicknamed the ‘Pearl of Val du Saire’, is a very lively place with lots of concerts, festivals and other celebrations ! There are some pretty little beaches for swimming and relaxing just a stone’s throw from Barfleur. The village itself is THE gastronomic hotspot on the coast and is not short of brasseries and gourmet restaurants ! There’s nothing like a platter of freshly caught seafood at one of these places, or you can order one to eat in the peaceful comfort of your gite in Barfleur.
What to do near Barfleur
There are lots of attractions within a few minutes’ drive from Barfleur. Slightly to the north, enjoy a drink and tapas at Goéland 1951, one of the 10 best beach bars in France according to The Guardian newspaper. The bar is in an old bunker (blockhouse) and gives the impression of being right at the end of the world ! In summer its terrace is constantly full.
Right next to Barfleur, you can explore Ile Tatihou and the Tours Vauban, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ile Tatihou is a great place for a family outing. When you reach the island aboard an amphibious boat, you can visit the botanical gardens, learn about the history of the island and watch sea birds. If you are there in August, then don’t miss the annual « Les Traversées de Tatihou » Festival.
Back on the mainland at Saint Vaast-la Hougue, it’s time to tickle your tastebuds ! Taste some local oysters with a hint of hazelnut then stop off at the famous fine food shop Maison Gosselin to buy some delicious souvenirs of your holiday in Barfleur.
Water sports enthusiasts should head for the beach at Jonville for kite-surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, etc. Round off your romantic holiday with a visit to the Phare de Gatteville lighthouse at the Pointe de Barfleur. At 75 metres it is the second tallest lighthouse in Europe. Enjoy the fresh sea air and recharge your batteries !
Finally, Cherbourg, about 30km away, is definitely worth a visit. The town revolves around the sea with fine sandy beaches and a harbour which once welcomed the greatest transatlantic liners. Make the most of your visit to try some delicious gourmet specialities.
How to get to Barfleur
By road : from Paris, A13 autoroute, then D902 exit Valognes and follow Quettehou (3½ hours). From Cherbourg, take RN 13.
By rail : Paris - Cherbourg line to Valognes
By air : Airports at Rennes, Caen, Deauville, Cherbourg Maupertus
By boat : Cherbourg ferry terminal "
