The Val de Saire: Under the majestic gaze of the Gatteville lighthouse

The Val de Saire stands out as an iconic destination, thanks in particular to its majestic lighthouses at Gatteville and Cap Lévi. However, it is above all its unique characteristics, such as market gardening, pink granite and blue schist, that make this area a preserved and singular place, ideal for disconnecting and recharging your batteries.

Built between 1829 and 1834, the Gatteville lighthouse is the second-tallest lighthouse in France, standing at 75 metres. Its construction required 11,000 granite blocks, weighing a total of 7,400 tonnes. Climbing its 365 steps, spread over 12 storeys and bathed in light through 52 windows, visitors can admire an exceptional 360° panoramic view of the Val de Saire and the English Channel. For safety reasons, the lighthouse may be closed in the event of strong winds or storms.

Located at the eastern tip of the Cotentin Peninsula in Normandy, the Val de Saire offers a wild coastline shaped by the sea, where sandy beaches, sunlit coves, and pebble bays are nestled. Nature lovers and families especially appreciate these varied landscapes, from dunes to marshes.

Au fil de leurs promenades, les visiteurs découvrent Barfleur, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, overlooked by the Gatteville lighthouse, as well as Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue with its Vauban towers, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Cap Lévi, with its Napoleonic fort, lighthouse, and semaphore, along with the panoramic view from La Pernelle and the airship hangar, also offer breathtaking views. The famous GR®223 trail delights hikers.

A true haven of peace, the village of Le Vast hides a refreshing treasure: its bubbling waterfalls, just a stone’s throw from the Château du Vast. This enchanting spot, where the River Saire splits into several branches, offers a shaded stroll beneath tall trees. It is the ideal spot for a contemplative stroll, lulled by the sound of the water, before popping in to pick up the famous artisanal butter brioche for a memorable afternoon treat.

As you head back down towards the coast, stop off at Réville. With its listed church and the majestic Jonville beach, the village offers a unique view of Tatihou Island. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset or try your hand at board sports in an unspoilt natural setting.

Protected from outside influences, the Val de Saire, named after the 31 km coastal river, has managed to preserve its authenticity. It offers exceptional natural and built heritage, as well as local flavors from both the sea and the land.

Come and discover this captivating and revitalizing region. Long overlooked, it reveals unexpected richness, offering a vibrant palette of colors in every season. The landscapes of the Val de Saire are constantly reshaped by the ever-present and ever-changing sea. Each day, it unveils fleeting wonders with the rising and falling tides, uncovering and covering the shore. The rocky coastline, marshes, and heathlands on the cliffs offer a variety of environments to explore, where wildlife and plant life flourish. Between dunes, heathlands, and woods, the scenery is always renewed, presenting a bright palette of colors throughout the seasons.

For a complete experience and an unforgettable stay near Gatteville Lighthouse and the Vast Waterfalls, book our comfortable and well-located holiday cottage in the Cotentin region. Ideally situated at the crossroads of the most beautiful sites in the Val de Saire, our accommodation is the perfect base from which to explore the region’s wonders and savour the famous local brioche.