Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue (pronounced: Saint Vaah) is a charming coastal town that juts out into the sea like the bow of a ship. This fishing and yacht harbor, with its rich historical past, is adorned with 2 Vauban towers, which are jewels of UNESCO World Heritage. Since Saint Vaast was crowned the most popular village in France in 2019, the usual 'tranquility à la Cotentin' is over in the summer, but a visit is still worthwhile, especially on a Saturday, when there is a very beautiful and still very authentic weekly market.

You can stroll along the quays, dine on the terraces, and browse in one of the delicatessens. Enjoy the atmosphere during the early morning departures of the trawlers as well as the aperitifs in front of the hundreds of sailboats moored at the pontoons. It is also the starting point for wonderful walks along the coast, always with a view of the island of Tatihou off Saint Vaast.

This 29-hectare island is another popular excursion spot and an ideal place for a picnic with wine, cheese, and baguette. Vive le savoir-vivre à la française!

The Ile Tatihou is accessible by an amphibious boat, meaning at high tide, you take the 'boat option' across, while at low tide, you can leisurely roll on wheels through the oyster park to or from the island. Upon arrival on the island, you can visit structures from various periods: remnants of medieval economic buildings, a fortified Vauban tower, and - a German bunker from World War II...

Furthermore, the island houses 2 smaller museums: the historical museum sheds light on the devastating defeat of the French fleet against the English and Dutch in the Bay of Saint Vaast, and the natural science museum explains the local flora and fauna. Lastly, there is also a small restaurant and a small hotel.

And one more thing: If you love oysters, you're in the right place! The oysters of Saint Vaast are known throughout France and are praised for their nutty flavor! Nutty? Well, we haven't quite discovered that yet, but they are certainly fresh, delicious, and taste like the sea. You can't get any fresher since at low tide, you can see where and how they are harvested!