In the department of Manche, south-east of the Cotentin peninsula, is the small seaside resort of Sainte-Marie du Mont. Marked by history and the Second World War, it unfolds before the eyes of its visitors long white sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing holiday.
Sainte-Marie du Mont is one of the most popular destinations in Normandy. This popularity is undeniably due to its beach, Utah Beach, where American troops landed on June 6, 1944. And for good reason, Sainte-Marie du Mont was the first city on the French continent to be liberated. This small quiet village is today one of the emblematic cities of the Second World War, and attracts many holidaymakers thanks to its D-Day Museum, which traces the chronology of the various military operations carried out on its beach in June 1944. Archives, period objects, models and testimonies will plunge you into the heart of the outcome of this war which, forever, will have marked the history of France. The Occupation and Liberation museums are also to be seen, for their beautiful collections of weapons, wall paintings, uniforms, and German and American vehicles.
In addition to its historical side, Sainte-Marie du Mont has a very beautiful architectural heritage, starting with its church Notre-Dame de l'Assomption. Built during the 11th century, it is classified as a Historic Monument thanks to its square Gothic bell tower, which from its small windows offers incomparable panoramic views over the whole of Sainte-Marie. The Cotentin peninsula and the town have many castles and manors, as well as several superb farms: the Ferme de Grandies and its slate roof is to be seen, as well as the manor of Brécourt and that of La Rivière.
As for nature, hiking and nature lovers will head towards the Beauguillot National Nature Reserve. Famous for its many ducks, waders and geese that stay there during their migratory stops, it attracts many birdwatchers to its walking trails. To combine culture and pleasure, several hiking, horseback riding or cycling routes will allow you to discover the splendour of the coast of the D-Day landing beaches dotted with blockhouses, from Ouistreham to Pointe du Hoc via Juno Beach, Gold Beach, Omaha Beach, Arromanches and Utah Beach.
Finally, in addition to its inseparable historical capital, Utah Beach is very popular with holidaymakers looking for beautiful beaches of fine sand. Spreading over several kilometres, this immense beach is ideal for many activities: horse riding, kitesurfing, sailing, fishing, sand yachting, longe-côte, swimming, beach volleyball or idleness, it will satisfy all your desires. Further north of the seaside resort, the beach of Grande Dune du Champ bears its name well: bordered by massive dunes, it is almost dedicated to water sports. It is here that most sliding fans meet, to sail, surf, kite buggy, sea kayak, water walking, paddle, sand yacht and catamaran. Nature and wild, it is a delight for riders and horses who come to cool off on hot summer days.
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