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Described as an endless meadow that flows into the sea, the Val de Saire region is renowned for its picture-perfect villages and bucolic landscapes.

Picture-perfect St Vaast la Hougus is a major oyster farming center and fishing port. This centuries-old harbor-side village has a picturesque marina as well as quaint shops and cafes. Be sure to note the fortifications that shelter the harbor; they date back to the Vauban Towers of the 17th century, which were rebuilt after the French defeat at the naval Battle of La Hougue and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Saint Vaast la Hougue was also the first harbor to be freed by the Allied Forces in 1944. Today, it contains several UNESCO World Heritage structures, including the La Hougue Fort, built after the famous naval Battle of La Hougue in 1692, which saw the sinking of 12 French vessels in the surrounding waters. The waves crashing against the rock wall surrounding the fort make for a dramatic photo, as does the promenade. Within the town of Saint Vaast, you'll find adorable asymmetrical stone houses and a family-owned store called Maison Gosselin that has been in continuous operation since 1889. You'll enjoy ample free time to browse the shops.

Then it's on to historic Barfleur, the little harbor from which William the Conqueror sailed before the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

Nearby, you'll find a popular local attraction, the Gatteville lighthouse. An official historical monument of France, the lighthouse was built between 1829 and 1834, necessitated by the area's strong currents and frequent shipwrecks. Still an active lighthouse, it stands 247 feet tall, with 12 floors, 52 windows and 365 steps. It is one of the tallest lighthouses in France.

Conclude your day with a delightful ride along the coastal roads back to Cherbourg.