Things To Do in Normandy in September

Every year in mid to late September a wonderful event takes place to celebrate history and heritage throughout France. The event is called Les Journées du Patrimoine and features activities with a heritage or historic theme. Normandy’s programme is made up of over 600 events across the five departments including concerts, workshops, exhibitions, visits to churches, abbeys, castles, priory and mansion houses. Many events are free with the remainder offering preferential rates. 

One of the highlights for visitors to La Manche region will be the Christian Dior Museum in Granville. The Dior exhibition theme changes each year so there is always something new to discover.

Directions

The Dior museum is on the outskirts of Granville. It’s at 1 rue d’Estouteville, 50400 Granville. You can also walk up the steps from the town although it is a fairly energetic walk up the cliff. The steps are at the end of the promenade on the Plage du Plat Gousset.

Notes

The Heritage Weekend dates change each year. For 2024, it will take place on 21st and 22nd September. Take a look at the full programme on the website. There is a separate page for each department including La Manche and also Calvados.

Hints and Tips

Check the programme to find out whether you need to book a place or can just turn up. Plan a route and calculate travel time if you want to attend several events. Research a lunch or refreshment stop so you can really make the most of your time.

Dahlias, Dahlias and More Dahlias

The annual Dahlia and Garden Festival takes places in Coutances throughout September. It has to be seen to be believed as there are over 300 different varieties of dahlia on display in the open air. The very colourful display is held in a garden centre which is part of the horticultural college. Normandy in September offers huge variety for visitors whatever their interests.

Directions

From Coutances take the D20 signposted towards Bricqueville and Montmartin (and Lycée Agricole). Take the first turning on the right onto rue La Quibouquière following any signs saying Lycée or Garden. Follow the road up the hill until you reach a large greenhouse. 

Notes

The festival runs from 27th August through to 29th September 2024 from 2 – 6pm each day. Entry is 5€ with under 12s going free. Parking is free. More information is available from the Coutances Tourist Office.

Observe The High and Low Tides

Normandy’s coastline is ever changing depending on whether there’s a high tide or a low tide. You can consult the tide timetable www.maree.info to check the coefficient number for a certain day. The higher the number, then the higher the tide with anything over 90 considered a high tide. When the coefficient is 110, Mont Saint Michel island gets completely cut off from the mainland for a few hours.

Equally impressive are the low tides as huge expanses of beach are exposed. It’s also the opportunity to indulge in some foraging by foot fishing or peach à pied as it’s called. There are strict rules about what you can and can’t collect and also the quantity to make sure reserves aren’t abused. If you visit a beach at low tide you’ll see a procession of locals heading to the shoreline with rakes, trowels and buckets to dig in the sand for small crabs, clams, prawns, oysters and mussels.

High tides with a coefficient of over 90 will happen between 17th to 22nd September 2024.

Directions

Beaches that are good for fishing on foot include Agon-Coutainville, Gouville, Blainville and Coudeville.

Notes

Check the tide timetable for low tide timings. You can also collect a leaflet at a local tourist office showing what you can collect and the quantities allowed.