Visiting Hauteville-sur-Mer
Hauteville-sur-Mer is a small town in the Cotentin peninsula, located along the Coast of the Havres. This 80-kilometer stretch of coastline between Carteret and Granville is shaped by dramatic tides and characterized by dunes, salt marshes, and tidal inlets. The town is divided into two distinct parts: the historic village and the seaside resort area, Hauteville-sur-Mer Plage, which spans 1.7 kilometers. This resort area is protected by a long stone dike, a popular spot for a walk to catch the salty ocean air. In 1907, the town council officially approved the development of the resort. You can still spot the first five chalets built facing the dike by François Chaussemiche, recognizable by their timber architecture and the stone archways decorating their facades.
A beach that changes with the tide
The beach at Hauteville-sur-Mer is unique because it reveals its best features only at low tide. As the water recedes, the vast expanse of wet sand exposes oyster beds, mussel stakes, and a peculiar V-shaped wooden structure known as the pêcherie Maillard. Located two kilometers from the shore, this fish trap dates back to the Middle Ages.
The three-kilometer beach is a hub for active pursuits, including land sailing, conventional sailing, and beach volleyball. In town, you can play tennis, go horseback riding, catch a movie, or visit the market held every Sunday morning.
Exploring the surroundings
Head south along the coast to find the dunes d'Annoville. This was the first dune site in France to be classified as a protected area in 1995, and its mix of marshes and wetlands is a sanctuary for local biodiversity.
To the north, you will find the charming fishing village of Régneville and the pointe d'Agon. These spots offer a sense of being at the edge of the world, defined by vast dunes and salt meadows. Follow the GR 223 trail that loops around the pointe d'Agon for the best views of the area. This hiking path eventually climbs up to the cap de la hague before continuing into the Calvados department.
Finally, visit Coutances, the main city of the Cotentin, located just a 15-minute drive away. Its wooded areas and gardens are quiet and well-maintained. The standout monument here is the église Saint-Pierre. Rebuilt in the late 15th century, the church blends Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements, most notably its distinctive lantern tower.
When to go
Plan your visit for the warmer months, between May and September, to make the most of the beach and various seaside activities.
Getting there
If you are driving, you will arrive via the D971 or D972. By train, the nearest station is Coutances. From there, you can reach Hauteville-sur-Mer by taxi or by taking the L53 or L54 bus on the Nomad Car Manche network, which operates during the summer season.
