At low tide, 365 islets appear over an area of nearly 40 km2, whilst at high tide, only 50 of them stay high and dry, constituting a total surface area of 68 hectares above the water. The dance of the tides is a spectacular and ever-changing show, bound to stun anyone who comes for a visit. It also makes perfect grounds for foreshore fishing.

The Chausey Islands, an abundance of nature

Chausey is a nature site listed with Natura 2000 for its abundance of natural resources. Thanks to its protected status, it has managed to preserve its exceptional biodiversity: marine animals (lobsters, big dolphins, grey seals, etc.), bird life (cormorans, gulls, red-breasted merganser, etc.), and shellfish (hardshell clams, rose shrimp, etc.)
200,000 visitors come to Chausey every year, to enjoy the tranquil beaches on Grande Île, to practice watersports (sailing, kayaking, scuba-diving), or to fish on the foreshore. But the archipelago is fragile and must be treated with the utmost respect.

Chausey - ©Thomas Jouanneau

A protected archipelago

A protection and development policy has been put in place by the SCI of the Chausey Islands, who own a large part of the archipelago (38 hectares in total) and all of the islets. The SCI instructs visitors not to leave the coastline path on their property, marked out by a white fence that runs from the Grande Cale to the cove of Port-Marie. Visitors are also informed that they are liable in the event of an accident resulting from recklessness or negligence. The Conservatoire du Littoral, owner of 6 hectares on the Grande Île, is in charge of providing good conditions in which to welcome the public, and of preserving the natural wealth of the archipelago.

The Ville de Granville also owns about a hectare - the point on which the tower, the lighthouse and the Vauban fort stand - and is in charge of public services on the whole island.

The Grande Île can be reached by boat with the Vedettes Jolies France company or aboard traditional sailing vessels. Click here for more information.