Tatihou: A natural oasis and historical treasure off the coast of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue

Tatihou Island, a granite gem set in the waters of the English Channel, lies off the coast of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue. Accessible on foot or by amphibious boat, this place of remembrance and discovery offers a wealth of experiences for lovers of history and nature. This paradise for nature watchers echoes the Beauguillot Reserve and the Cotentin marshes, offering two exceptional wildlife sites close to the cottage.

A paradise in summer, with its two small beaches and its acclimatisation garden, the island becomes more mysterious in winter. Visitors often debate: should they admire it from afar, from the port of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue or Jonville beach, or go there to explore its mysteries?

The short distance between the island and the coast makes for a surprising journey. Depending on the tides, the boat can sail on water or roll on land, offering visitors a unique experience.

Located on the east coast of the Cotentin peninsula, Tatihou is a garden by the sea, benefiting from the roughness of the granite and the gentleness of the sea breezes. This 28-hectare island, accessible on foot or by amphibious boat, is an ornithological site where more than a hundred species of birds can be observed throughout the year.

Tatihou would not be as fascinating without its Vauban tower. Built in 1694 by Benjamin de Combes, an engineer under Vauban, following the Battle of Barfleur, this fortification has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.

Today, Tatihou is a must-see site of Norman heritage. Nestled in the roadstead of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, it bears witness to 300 years of history. Over time, military events have given way to scientific, educational, and cultural purposes.

In 1692, the island looked on helplessly as Louis XIV’s fleet was wrecked. It was to protect this strategic bay that Vauban built his famous tower there, a stone sentinel now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

From 1722 to 1860, Tatihou served as a health barrier. Suspicious crews and cargoes were quarantined there to protect Normandy and the Kingdom from major epidemics, such as the plague of Marseille. It became one of the Natural History Museum’s first maritime stations in the late 19th century, before being converted into a rehabilitation centre for teenagers.

Tatihou Island, in the bay of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, hosts the ‘Et vole Eole’ kite festival. For two days, the island is transformed into a paradise for kite enthusiasts, and the Cotentin sky is adorned with a thousand colours, offering a magical spectacle for families. In August, don’t miss ‘Les Traversées Tatihou’. A unique festival set to the rhythm of the tides, celebrating traditional world music. It is the highlight of the season for our guests staying at the holiday home during this period.

For the full experience, why not also check out our holiday cottage in the Cotentin, ideally situated just 5 minutes from the harbour, making it the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Tatihou and the surrounding area.