Granville is an ideal destination for a weekend escape with friends. Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind to enjoy the tranquil seaside atmosphere. This charming coastal town, nestled in the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel, is perfect for exploring the Chausey Islands.
Top things to see and do in Granville for friends
Travel sustainably and enjoy discounts at various attractions
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There’s nothing quite like gathering with friends for a short break in vibrant little towns of Normandy, and Granville is a hidden gem that perfectly fits the bill. With the sea at its heart, this coastal town offers a lively atmosphere and stunning views. For seafood lovers, Granville is a paradise, where indulging in fresh shellfish paired with a crisp glass of white wine is just the beginning of a delightful getaway.
Granville wasn’t chosen by chance. It’s the closest you can get to explore the Chausey Islands, a little archipelago of islands, islets and rocks off the coast of Granville, in the English Channel. These natural wonders are a bucket list destination and we joined a local character, Ian Wood, for a sea kayak adventure to the Chausey Islands. Professional fisherman Ian is also passionate about sea kayaking in the largest archipelago in Europe. Kayaking through these stunning waters is not only visually rewarding but also a good workout!
After much anticipation, it was time to try paddleboarding, and what better way to do it than on a giant paddleboard that accommodates up to eight people? Fun times ahead! The Granville Nautical Base, 8 Milles Nautic, also offers a variety of other sea-related activities.
And because relaxation was well-deserved, a visit to Prévithal Thalasso & Spa Marin was in order. With a serene view of the English Channel, the facility boasts a 32°C seawater pool. Alongside the sauna and hammam, indulging in an algae and mud treatment—rich in minerals and trace elements—was the perfect way to unwind.
More great activities for friends in Granville
- Fat Biking with Electric Assistance: Explore the stunning coastal landscape of Granville on a fat bike with electric assistance.
- Aerial Adventure with Manche Parapente: Experience Granville from a new perspective with a paragliding tour over the coastline. Soar through the skies and take in breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape—a truly unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
- An evening out at Granville Casino
The casino offers a vibrant atmosphere with its array of slot machines and a stylish bar-club. It’s a place to try your luck, unwind, and enjoy the nightlife. Please remember that playing comes with risks, including addiction and isolation.
Market and shopping in Granville
- Market Days in Granville: On Saturday mornings from 8 AM to 2 PM, Granville’s market comes alive with locals and visitors alike, bustling both outdoors and under the covered market. On Tuesday afternoons, a dedicated organic market awaits at Cours Jonville, starting at 4 PM. Then, on Wednesdays, the Saint-Nicolas market sets up in Place du 11 Novembre.
- Among the unique boutiques worth exploring are Hissez Haut, L’Envolée, the ceramics studio of Clémentine Halberstadt, Des Habits et Moi, and l’îlot lamp’Créations.
Our favourite spots in Granville
Places to stay
- A family home with terrace
For a weekend getaway with friends on the west coast, the gîte La Bichette*** ticks all the boxes. This family home offers a spacious layout of 130 m², flooded with natural light and completely private. Guests are sure to appreciate its charm. The cherry on the cake is the terrace, providing a lovely view of Granville—perfect for relaxing together after a day of adventure.
- In a Former Fisherman’s Cottage
The perfect holiday home does exist! First, the location—just steps from the harbour, with stunning sea views. Imagine starting the day with breakfast on the balcony, watching the boats come and go. The toughest decision? Choosing a room: one facing the sea or the cosy studio opening onto a secluded stone-walled terrace.
Another great place to stay with friends in Granville
Places to eat in the town centre
- After 6 PM, the focus shifts to finding a nice bar for an aperitif with friends. La Rafale appears to be the ideal spot, nestled in Haute-Ville, Granville’s historic district. The cobbled streets add to the charm, and the sea is just a stone’s throw away. The bar boasts a unique atmosphere, creating a relaxed vibe. Notably, this bistro features a beer cellar, making it a great choice to settle on the terrace and sample a local brew.
- All that activity works up an appetite! A table has been reserved at Parfum Poivre, where grilled dishes over a wood fire take centre stage. Local ingredients are delivered raw and transformed on-site, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Other delightful places for dining
- La Table de Louis offers a stylish decor and inventive cuisine, perfect for a memorable dining experience.
- Le TerraNova: located within the casino, boasts stunning views of the Chausey Islands while serving up delicious meals.
- La Contremarche: in the heart of the Haute Ville, providing a charming atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
- Le Ponton sits right on the pleasure port, making it a lovely spot to enjoy local dishes by the water.
- For Italian delights, La Fabbrica is the go-to choice, offering a variety of specialities.
- Dame gourmande is a must-try spot, whether dining in or taking away. Sample their savoury tarts, fruit crumbles, and the house specialty, lemon tart. This charming venue is a passionate advocate for homemade dishes, ensuring every bite is crafted with care and quality.
How to get to Granville?
Travel sustainably and enjoy discounts at various attractions
Embrace eco-friendly travel and enjoy exclusive discounts by presenting your low-carbon travel credentials. Find out how to access these discounted tickets and make your journey not only rewarding but also kind to the planet.
| By train + train or train + coach | From Paris |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | 3 H 37 (average journey) |
| Price | From 21 € /pers. |
| Validity Period | All year round |
| Details | Paris > Granville Book my ticket |
Would you like to experience the same holiday?
Plan your trip to Granville with friends with our handpicked selection of spots and our interactive map.
2 days / 1 night
With Friends
Granville
15 mn walk from the train station
Very Easy
Travelling to Granville by train
Reduces the carbon footprint to 1,05 kg of CO2 per person, instead of 75 kg of CO2 when traveling by car from Paris.
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