The Chausey Islands

Located off the coast of Normandy, the Chausey archipelago comprises 365 islets at low tide and 52 at high tide. Nestled to the west of Granville, these islands stretch over a length of 13 kilometers and a width of 5.5 kilometers. The Chausey Islands were traditionally a favorite spot for fishermen, a tradition that continues to this day, with many amateurs coming to fish on foot. Despite its small size, the main island is home to around 30 year-round inhabitants, a figure that triples in summer thanks to the various accommodation facilities available.

unwind offshore

The Chausey Islands offer a dreamlike getaway, a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Free of motorized vehicles, they offer a constant natural spectacle. Their impressive tidal range is among the greatest in the world. At low tide, the granite islets reveal themselves, forming a remarkable natural lacework. These include Lézard, Épinet, Trois-Îlets and Grand-Colombier. And how can you resist the bewitching charm of the Chausey islands and their multitude of rocks? Enough said, it’s time to let yourself be carried away by the call of the open sea!

To explore the Chausey Islands on foot is to plunge into an “end of the world” atmosphere on this land isolated from all civilization. We disembark on Grande Île, the main island of the Chausey archipelago and the only inhabited one. Here you’ll find a single hotel for wilderness enthusiasts, a unique restaurant, a boutique and communal gîtes, all of which suggest that you’ll want to come back. On the Chausey Islands, you’ll lose all your bearings.

Book your tickets now!

Save time and book your tickets at the Tourist Office! We offer crossings to Chausey from Granville, as well as boat tours of the archipelago. Don’t hesitate to ask our team for advice.

Species unique in the world

Chausey’s isolation and unique environment, punctuated by the tides, make it an exceptionally rich natural area. Coves, mudflats, beaches, foreshore… A variety of environments where flora and fauna thrive. Whether on land, in the air or in the water, Chausey is teeming with life. Over 200 species of birds flourish here, along with numerous shellfish, crustaceans, plants and, of course, the famous Chausey lobster. As an added bonus, it’s not uncommon to spot seals and dolphins. Don’t forget your binoculars, as you’re sure to spot colonies of cormorants. Perched on the rocks, these large black birds spread their wings to dry out in the sun.

During our visit to Chausey in summer, we were able to extend our stay to the last shuttle bus, offering a magnificent opportunity to admire the sunset on the way back! It’s hard to describe the beauty of this moment… From 6 p.m. onwards, Chausey took on a whole new look as the tourists departed. We felt as if we were alone in the world, with most of the island to ourselves. We took the opportunity to return to the beach and savor the moment. The little sheep were timidly emerging from the ferns to enjoy the last golden rays, just like us. Everything was calmer, more peaceful. The feeling of being at the end of the world was even more palpable. When we got back on the boat, we had the privilege of enjoying the magnificent lights all the way to Granville. It was simply magical!

A visit to Chausey means taking the time to experience the islands intensely. Just take a stroll around the Chausey islands to see how the tides transform the seascapes. Lined with old stone walls, some of the paths give the impression of being immersed in the Normandy bocage. We felt the urge to get lost and let time pass us by, for a Robinson Crusoe experience out of time.

We like

the tranquility of coves and beaches

unspoilt nature

the sublime sunset over the islands

Other experiences To live

A visit to Domaine du Coquerel

We take you… to visit the Maison du Patrimoine Sourdin

We take you… to visit the Cité de la mer