Visiting the Marais

The Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin is an extensive marshland located in Normandy, France, stretching over more than 100,000 hectares. This area hosts a diverse ecosystem of rare and endangered plant and animal species and is characterized by a network of channels, ditches, and pools fed by rainwater and groundwater. The region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine nature.

The Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin is not only a beautiful natural area but also has a rich history. During World War II, it was a significant battleground, and visitors can still explore the traces of this period today. The region is home to numerous museums, cemeteries, and memorials commemorating the events of the war.

But there is more than just history in the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin. The region is also known for its gastronomy. Visitors can enjoy delicious local dishes, including fresh fish, seafood, charcuterie, and cheese. Additionally, the area is renowned for its cider, calvados, and other local beverages.

Formerly, some parts of the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin were inaccessible in winter due to flooding. However, dikes and canals have been built to better protect the area from floods, making it possible to explore the area and enjoy its natural beauty year-round.

The region is home to a wide range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. During walks or boat trips, visitors may encounter wild boars, foxes, stoats, weasels, badgers, deer, bats, and hedgehogs. The area is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species visiting the area, such as the rare spoonbill, curlew, lapwing, redshank, and black tern.

To see the animals in their natural environment, it is important to respect nature conservation guidelines and not disturb the animals. This means, for example, that visitors should stay on marked paths and pick up litter.

A visit to the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin offers a unique opportunity to discover the pristine nature of Normandy and enjoy the variety of animals that live there, while also learning more about the history and culture of the region. Whether you are interested in World War II, local gastronomy, or simply the beautiful nature, there is something for everyone in the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin.

Some of the most popular attractions in the area include the Utah Beach Landing Museum, the Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église, and Pointe du Hoc. Other interesting sights include the medieval towns of Carentan and Bayeux, where the famous Bayeux Tapestry is displayed.

As for food, don’t miss the local specialties such as oysters from Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, lamb from the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, and cider from the region. There are plenty of restaurants and markets in the area where you can taste these dishes and buy local products.

The area has a lot to offer for active travelers, from hiking and cycling to horse riding and kayaking. There are numerous trails and routes to follow, and the area is well-equipped for water sports.

In summary, the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin is a beautiful destination in Normandy that offers the chance to enjoy the nature, history, and culture of the region. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the local gastronomy or actively explore, there is something for everyone.

The natural park is very large and located on the border of Calvados and Manche, consisting of more than 145 municipalities in total. The flora and fauna are abundant, the nature is pristine, rural, and has an exceptional international status. You will find a mix of protected hedgerow landscapes, regularly flooded meadows, vast heathlands, and of course, the coast. The uniqueness of this area lies in the marshy part of 30,000 hectares, which is very challenging and unique for the people and residents who work here. In winter, when the land is submerged, it becomes clear that Cotentin is a peninsula. The area is then very difficult to access.

The visitor center Maison du Parc is located near Carentan. Here you can find all kinds of information about the nature and culture of this region. It is very informative if you want to explore the water-rich area. Maison du Parc has been extensively renovated and expanded using traditional materials such as wood, clay, and reeds, as well as the latest techniques such as wall heating, geothermal heat exchangers, and automatic biomass stoves. You can find information about the regional natural park and the wide range of activities it offers.

There is also a shop with a wide range of books, maps, guides, postcards, local products, and gift ideas.