Îles Chausey

Europe's largest archipelago

The Îles Chausey, off Granville in the English Channel, form the largest archipelago in Europe. At high tide, 52 islets remain above water. At low tide, the landscape is transformed: 365 islets, reefs and rocks emerge from the sea, creating a spectacular mineral labyrinth. The tidal range, among the greatest in the world (up to 14 metres during spring tides), makes Chausey a unique and ever-changing place.

Grande-Île, the only inhabited land

Only the Grande-Île, 700 metres long, is inhabited year-round by a handful of residents. It has a few granite houses, a former fort converted into a dwelling, a semaphore and the fishermen's chapel. The island has no roads or cars, just sandy and rocky paths winding between granite boulders. The atmosphere is one of absolute serenity.

The quarries that built Paris

Chausey granite has an illustrious history. Quarried from the 11th century, it was used to build Mont-Saint-Michel, the pavements of Paris and numerous buildings in Normandy. The old quarries, now abandoned, are visible on the Grande-Île and on several islets, evidence of an intense industrial activity that profoundly shaped the archipelago's landscape.

A paradise for shore fishing

At low tide, the vast Chausey foreshore becomes a playground for shore fishers. Clams, cockles, winkles, abalone and velvet crabs are gathered from rock pools and crevices. This age-old tradition remains very much alive and attracts hundreds of enthusiasts during spring tides. The archipelago's waters are also renowned for sea bass and pollack fishing.

Practical information

The Îles Chausey are accessible from Granville with Vedettes Jolie France (50-minute crossing) and from Saint-Malo with Compagnie Corsaire. In summer, departures are daily; in winter, crossings are mainly at weekends. Accommodation is limited to the Hôtel du Fort et des Îles and a few private rentals. One restaurant is open in season. Visiting the Grande-Île takes one to two hours. To make the most of the archipelago, check the tide times and plan for a low tide.