Grande Grève Beach
About Grande Grève Beach
Grande Grève is the largest beach on the Chausey archipelago, featuring white sand and the famous Elephant rock formation—a granite sculpture shaped by wind and sea. Located on the northern coast of Grande Île, the beach transforms dramatically with tides that can reach up to 14 meters, one of Europe's highest. At low tide, vast tidal flats extend toward 365 islets; at high tide, only 52 remain visible. The beach is part of a Natura 2000 protected site home to over 200 bird species, including France's only mainland breeding colony of red-breasted mergansers. Visitors reach Chausey by a 45-minute ferry from Granville, then walk the car-free island trails. The complete island loop takes about 2 hours and passes three beaches. Check tide tables before visiting—the experience differs completely between tides. Bring provisions as facilities are minimal.
Interesting Facts
The granite from Grande Grève and the surrounding Chausey islands built some of Europe's most famous structures. For eight centuries, quarrymen extracted stone that was used to construct Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, rebuild Saint-Malo after World War II, and pave the streets of Paris and London. At its peak in the 19th century, around 500 workers lived on the archipelago.
Grey seals regularly visit the waters around Grande Grève but have not yet established a breeding colony. Marine biologists monitor them closely, hoping Chausey will become their first permanent home in mainland France. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted during the ferry crossing from Granville.
The name 'Grande Grève' translates to 'Great Shore' in French. Historically, local fishermen used this west-facing beach to intentionally ground their boats at low tide, allowing them to clean and repair the hulls before the water returned—a practice that gave the beach practical importance beyond recreation.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Grande Grève, Grande Île, Îles Chausey, 50400 Granville, Manche, Normandy, France
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