Granville, Normandy

Why You Should Visit Granville

Nicknamed the “Monaco of the North”, Granville is a lively seaside resort that blends sandy beaches, rich maritime history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, it’s a town of two faces — the bustling port and beach area below, and the atmospheric medieval upper town above.

⛱️ Beaches & Seaside Fun

Granville’s coastline offers something for everyone:

• Plage du Plat Gousset – The town’s central beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a leisurely promenade.

• Long Sandy Stretches – Ideal for kite-flying, sandcastle-building, and family games.

• Water Sports – Sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all popular here.

🏰 The Upper Town – History on the Clifftop

Wander the ramparts and narrow streets of Granville’s historic upper town, with its stone houses, old gates, and stunning sea views. Highlights include:

• Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou – A beautiful church with a maritime heritage.

• Ancient Fortifications – Remnants of the town’s defensive past.

🎨 Museums & Culture

Granville is full of fascinating cultural stops:

• Christian Dior Museum & Gardens – Located in the fashion designer’s childhood home, with exhibitions and fragrant cliff-top gardens.

• Musée d’Art Moderne Richard Anacréon – Showcasing 20th-century art in the historic upper town.

🛥️ Maritime Spirit & Fishing Port

Granville’s port is a hive of activity — fishing boats, yachts, and ferries heading out to the Chausey Islands, an archipelago of 365 islets at low tide. Fresh seafood is a way of life here, from oysters to mussels.

🍽️ Flavours of Granville

Expect seafood feasts — platters of oysters, langoustines, crab, and lobster, often served with a sea view. The local markets are full of Norman cheeses, cider, and sweet treats like salted butter caramel.

🎭 Events & Festivals

Granville’s calendar is lively year-round, with the most famous being:

• Granville Carnival – One of France’s largest and oldest carnivals, a colourful explosion of parades, costumes, and music in February.

• Sea Festivals – Celebrating maritime traditions with boat races and harbour parties.

🌅 Perfect for Day Trips & Longer Stays

Granville is just a short drive from Mont Saint-Michel and offers ferry connections to the Chausey Islands and the Channel Islands. Whether you come for a sunny weekend by the sea or a base to explore the Normandy coast, Granville delivers history, charm, and ocean air in abundance.