Car Rental Cherbourg - Exploring Cherbourg

The region around Cherbourg is renowned for its striking châteaux, and it is well worth hiring a car to see the outlying towns and their luxurious mansions.

Château Ravalet is an Italian Renaissance structure situated in the nearby town of Tourlaville, and takes its name from its founders – the Ravalet family. Its original construction dates from the 16th century, but it was restored in the 19th century in a style more fashionable to the time. It is now a national monument, standing under the shade of tall trees with ponds, winding paths and delicate greenhouses peppering its grounds.

Château Nacquaville, in the nearby town of Urville-Nacquaville, is a 16th century home featuring a heavenly English garden, complete with pond mirrors and water features, and is famous for its azaleas, rhodendrons and giant gunneras.

Six kilometres away from Cherbourg is the town of Domaine de Beurepaire, where you can find yet another château by the name of Martinvaast. However, the original building was replaced many years ago, and all that remains of the original is the ancient Norman dungeon. The standing structure is charming, however, with a lovely 19th century wing and a wonderful English garden.

For those that tire of sightseeing, or crave a dose of natural beauty, Cherbourg is a fantastic starting point for a trip into the region of Val de Saire, which is off the beaten track and graced with exquisite scenery.