Collignon Beach (Plage de Collignon)
About Collignon Beach (Plage de Collignon)
Collignon Beach stretches 1.5 kilometers along the English Channel coast in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. The fine golden sand slopes gently into the sea, and at low tide a natural rocky pool forms, creating a shallow protected swimming area popular with families. Views from the beach include the historic Fort de l'Île Pelée, an 18th-century island fortress visible offshore. The consistent Channel winds make this spot a favorite among windsurfers and kitesurfers, with a sailing school operating on-site. Lifeguards supervise during July and August from 11:00 to 19:00. Free parking and accessible facilities are available near the beach entrance. Dogs are prohibited from July 1 to August 31 but welcome on leash during the rest of the year.
Interesting Facts
Collignon Beach is the birthplace of French trotting races. On September 25-26, 1836, the first official trotting races in France took place on this stretch of sand, organized by Éphrem Houël, director of the Saint-Lô stud farm. A commemorative plaque was unveiled in 2016 to mark the 180th anniversary of this event.
The beach takes its name from entrepreneur A. Collignon, who directed the construction of Cherbourg's eastern breakwater (digue de l'Est) from 1889 to 1895. This massive engineering project partially enclosed the Cherbourg roadstead and transformed the coastline, creating the protected bay that defines the area today.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Boulevard de Collignon, 50110 Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France