Upper Town and Ramparts (Haute-Ville de Granville)

The Haute-Ville de Granville is a fortified old town perched on a narrow rocky promontory extending into the English Channel. English forces built the original fortifications in 1439 to isolate Mont-Saint-Michel, but French troops recaptured it just three years later. The current ramparts date from 1695-1749, designed following Vauban's military architecture principles. Visitors can walk the 450-meter circuit of granite walls offering panoramic views of the Channel Islands, the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, and the town below. Inside the walls, cobblestone streets wind past 17th-18th century townhouses, the Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou church built from Chausey granite, and small squares with cafes and artisan shops. The area is freely accessible at all times. Guided walking tours run on Tuesdays and Saturdays during the tourist season. Allow extra time for the steep stairs throughout the district, which can be challenging for those with mobility limitations.