Cherbourg

If you’re in search of a tranquil atmosphere for a break from your hectic schedule, Cherbourg is ideal for you.

Catching the cross channel ferry from Portsmouth Port at 8am can get you there before lunchtime and you can travel back in the evening the following day. As a passenger you will pay very little for the ferry trip and you then have the option to hire a car on arrival.  Before you venture further into France you might want to spen a day without a car in Cherbourg.  When you’ve taken a day or two to enjoy what Cherbourg has to offer tourists you can easily arrange to pick up car hire. France is blessed with well maintained open roads and you can reach almost any part from Cherbourg in a day’s driving

Cherbourg ferry port is right on the edge of the town centre, meaning your break can begin as soon as you step off the ferry. Its rich historical background makes this city the perfect place to relax with a loved one, soaking in some cultural heritage.

If gorgeous scenery gets you excited, visiting Cherbourg won’t leave you disappointed. After a light lunch in one of the city’s traditional cafés you could wander hand in hand to the Ravalet Chateau in Tourlaville where the views are staggering. The magnificent landscaped grounds surround a mediaeval manor house built during the 16th century.

Emmanuel Liais Gardens

Or why not take a stroll through one of France’s most beautiful gardens such as Emmanuel Liais Gardens,  definitely worth a visit with over 500 different types of rare plants that Liais himself shipped over to Cherbourg from South America and Asia.

Cherbourg also has a strong religious heritage, making a visit to the beautiful churches a must. The bell tower of Saint-Martin of Octeville and the sculptures of the Trinity Basilica are just two examples of the eye-catching religious buildings that hold fascinating history. The Abbey of the Vow is now listed as a Historical Monument for its stunning architecture and archaeological value.

Cherbourg Museums – Thomas Henry Art Museum

If your heart lies with art, then the Thomas Henry art museum is the next stop. The museum is home to many famous sculptures and paintings ranging from the 15th to the 19th century by foreign masters as well as French classical painters.

After a day of exploring and soaking in the magnificent culture, you could take a stroll down to the marina. Enjoy a romantic French meal in a traditional French restaurant and stay in one of the lovely B&Bs the town has to offer.

The following day you could take a look at one or two of the interesting museums located in Cherbourg; the Liberation museum is fascinating. With the theme “from the darkness to the light” it takes the visitor through the stages of history in the Second World War; from the fall of France to the liberation.

With the ease of the high speed ferry from Portsmouth Port your trip away will be stress free, allowing you to relax and take in the wonders of Cherbourg.

Image – CHHeuvet