Car Hire Cherbourg
Mini guide to Cherbourg
Lying between a huge artificial harbor and the 125 meter Roule Mountain, the seaside town of Cherbourg has figured significantly in the history of not only France but all of Europe. Its location on the English channel, and variety of historical attractions make it an ideal holiday destination.
The harbor walls, or dykes, were constructed over the 18th and 19th centuries, and are magnificent engineering feats. Modifications and additions were carried out until 1922, however the central dyke remains the highlight with its three forts. Exploring around the harbor area, you will come across the site of the great chateau, destroyed in 1689; the Bassins, where you can witness the port as it was in the 19th century; the Queens of the Atlantic - ocean liners that ferried emigrants to the Americas; Voeu Abbey; and Emmanuel Liais Park. The town has sign posted several historic walks through the harbor area, and arrangements can be made for guided tours.
Other attractions around the town include the historic churches of Notre-Dame du Voeu, Saint Clement, and the ancient Saint Trinity Basilica. The Theatre of Cherbourg features massive crystal chandeliers and exquisitely painted ceilings. It has been designated both an historical monument and a ‘Scene Nationale”. Another Historical Monument is the 16th century Ravelet-Tourlaville Castle and surrounding landscaped park.
Cherbourg features a myriad of quality restaurants and quaint cafes, and in the evening a variety of nightlife livens up the town. Accommodations to suit all budgets are easily found.
Located on the end of the Cotentin Peninsula, Cherbourg is a convenient base from which to explore the surrounding Normandy region, discovering treasures like the beautiful Val de Saire and the intriguing Hague.
Cherbourg can be accessed via connections from Charles de Gaulle International Airport, which serves direct international flights to all major world cities. Shuttle services in to the town are both frequent and reliable. There are also reliable and fast rail services from Paris.
