Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: A gem of the Cotentin
Nestled on the east coast of the Cotentin peninsula, Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue stands out like the prow of a ship proudly advancing into the sea. This charming fishing and pleasure port, rich with a tumultuous historical past, is also a popular seaside resort. Known as the birthplace of the Norman oyster, the town is adorned with its two majestic Vauban towers, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: A sensory experience
In summer, Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue comes alive, becoming one of the most vibrant destinations in the region. Between its picturesque homes and charming shops, the town offers a unique shopping experience. The amphibious boat invites visitors to discover Tatihou island, often the most memorable experience for visitors.
Stroll along the quays, enjoy a meal on a terrace, or explore the gourmet shops. Soak in the morning atmosphere of returning trawlers or savor an aperitif overlooking the moored sailboats. Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue is also the starting point for refreshing walks, promising a tasting of fresh oysters with a view of Tatihou.
France’s favorite village
In 2019, Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue was voted France’s Favorite Village, a well-deserved honor for this blessed place. Beyond the charm of its fishing port, located at the tip of the Val de Saire, the village is home to two Vauban towers classified by UNESCO. The sunrises over Tatihou are breathtaking and might just make you fall in love with this place.
On the cultural side, Saint-Vaast is the heart of the Festival des Traversées Tatihou, held every August. And for food lovers, the local oysters are among the most sought-after in France.
Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: A seafarers’ village
Coveted by the Vikings and a landing site for the English in the 14th century, the port of Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue is a place rich in history. Today, it is the third-largest port on the English Channel, shared between fishing and leisure boating. Along the quays, stalls offer an impressive variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, delighting food lovers.
Moored at the docks, vaquelottes, schooners, bisquines, and bautiers from Barfleur break into a chorus of sails as soon as the wind rises. The oyster beds, visible at low tide, testify to the intense oyster farming activity of this truly maritime village.
Explore the sailors’ chapel, walk to the lighthouse at the end of the pier or to the La Hougue peninsula, and stroll through the picturesque alleys. Don’t miss stopping by Gosselin’s grocery store to complete your experience. All the ingredients are here to create unforgettable moments in Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue.
Tatihou: The island of birds
Tatihou Island, a small 29-hectare gem, is a true natural and historical treasure.
The island is home to the Vauban tower, built in 1694 alongside its twin at La Hougue, following the devastating Battle of La Hougue in 1692, where Vice-Admiral Tourville’s fleet suffered a heavy defeat against Anglo-Dutch forces. Tatihou long served as a lazaretto, a quarantine station, until 1860.
Today, the island hosts a maritime museum, three gardens (acclimatization, botanical, and maritime), and a bird sanctuary home to more than one hundred and fifty migratory species. It attracts history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and environmental advocates.
The crossing to Tatihou can be done at high or low tide, either aboard an amphibious boat or on foot, wearing rubber boots.
A chapter of maritime history
Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue was the site of the famous Battle of La Hougue, a major naval clash between the French fleet and the Anglo-Dutch coalition.
In 1692, Admiral Tourville suffered a defeat there against the enemy fleet, marking one of the greatest naval disasters in French history. Today, the maritime museum of Tatihou houses archaeological collections recovered from the shipwrecks of this battle.
The need to protect the bay then became crucial. In 1694, the military architect Vauban ordered the urgent construction of two towers: one on the mainland (La Hougue) and the other on the island (Tatihou). These 20-meter-high towers crossed their fire to protect the anchorage of boats. Under the direction of engineer Benjamin de Combes, they were designed for observation, firing at sea, and communication by signals, showcasing Vauban’s military genius. Autonomous and able to withstand a siege, they could accommodate 40 to 80 men, with cisterns and storage rooms.
To discover all the treasures of Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue and the Cotentin, book now our comfortable and well-located cottage.
Audrey & Fred.