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Manche is one of the 83 original departments created during the French Revolution on March 4th, 1790, located in northwest France. The department was formed from a part of the province of Normandy, covering an area of approximately 5,938 square kilometres. At first, Coutances was the department's capital, but in 1796, Saint-Lô replaced it. However, after the D-Day invasion of Normandy during World War II, Saint-Lô was almost destroyed, and Coutances resumed its role as the capital. When Saint-Lô was rebuilt, it regained its status as the capital of the region. The Manche department, which is numbered 50, includes the Cotentin Peninsula and the islands of Chausey. It is part of the region of Basse-Normandie (Lower Normandy) and is surrounded on three sides by the English Channel, with 350km of coastline. On the other side, it is bordered by the departments of Calvados, Orne, Mayenne, and Ille-et-Vilaine.
Manche is one of the 83 original departments created during the French Revolution on March 4th, 1790, located in northwest France. The department was formed from a part of the province of Normandy, covering an area of approximately 5,938 square kilometres. At first, Coutances was the department's capital, but in 1796, Saint-Lô replaced it. However, after the D-Day invasion of Normandy during World War II, Saint-Lô was almost destroyed, and Coutances resumed its role as the capital. When Saint-Lô was rebuilt, it regained its status as the capital of the region. The Manche department, which is numbered 50, includes the Cotentin Peninsula and the islands of Chausey. It is part of the region of Basse-Normandie (Lower Normandy) and is surrounded on three sides by the English Channel, with 350km of coastline. On the other side, it is bordered by the departments of Calvados, Orne, Mayenne, and Ille-et-Vilaine.
The department is known for its stunning landscapes, including long sandy beaches, high cliffs, and rolling hills. The region is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, Manche is famous for its fresh seafood, including oysters, mussels, and scallops.
Geologically, the department is connected to the Massif Armoricain, a mountain range in western France. The region is rich in natural resources, including iron ore, granite, and limestone, which have been utilised for construction and industrial purposes for centuries.
The climate is oceanic, characterised by mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing and temperate summers, averaging around 25°C. Precipitation is substantial but varies significantly by region, ranging from 700 mm on the coast to 1300 mm in the open field land of the south.
The West Coast benefits from the Gulf Stream’s influence, allowing the naturalisation of many Mediterranean and exotic plants (mimosas, palms, agaves…). There is often a sea breeze on the coast, which, combined with tides, contributes to quick temperature changes over a single day.
Manche is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the region's stunning landscape, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're interested in exploring the great outdoors, soaking up the local culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, the department of Manche has something for everyone.
This area of Normandy is easily accessible from the UK via the main ferry ports of Cherbourg, Ouistreham (near Caen), Saint-Malo (a 1.5-hour drive), and Le Havre (a 2.5-hour drive), with regular crossings provided by ferries.
If you are looking for a property in the Manche, please get in touch to discuss your search criteria.
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