Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is a coastal town on the northeast side of the Cotentin peninsula with a modern marina, an active fishing harbor, and large oyster farming operations. The facilities spread across the waterfront between the port and the coastline, with separate areas for private and commercial vessels.

In 1692, the naval battle of La Hougue took place in the waters near the town, where a French fleet was defeated by an Anglo-Dutch force. This event fundamentally shifted maritime power in western Europe.

The town's identity is rooted in fishing and the sea, which shapes how locals live and what visitors see daily. Working boats fill the harbor, and the rhythm of unloading catches and preparing oysters is part of the place's character.

The town has good infrastructure for visitors and sailors with various services around the harbor area. The best time to visit is during the warmer months, when the harbors are most active and water activities take place.

Two fortified towers, one on Tatihou Island and one at La Hougue point, were built in 1692 following a famous naval battle. These structures were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008 for their exceptional 17th-century military architecture.

Location: canton of Quettehou

Location: Manche

Location: communauté d'agglomération du Cotentin

Location: arrondissement of Cherbourg

Elevation above the sea: 4 m

Shares border with: La Pernelle, Réville, Quettehou

Address: Rue du Port, 50550 Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, France

Phone: +33233886230

Email: saintvaast.mairie@wanadoo.fr

Website: http://saintvaast.fr

GPS coordinates: 49.58806,-1.26750

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:15