Cancale, in the land of taste
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Exceptional walks
For lovers of wide open spaces and fresh air, the best way to explore the exceptional site of Cancale is to follow the cliff path, known as the "sentier des douaniers", which winds along the coast. This 11 km long route (GR34) will lead you to the port of la Houle on the "Pointe du Grouin" headland, opposite Landes island, a classified ornithological reserve. From the cliffs, you will witness incredible views over the immensity of the Mont St Michel Bay, beating to the rhythm of the ebbing and flowing tides, the swarming birds and the passing boats. A feeling of well-being drifts in the air and you will find yourself envying this place where each malouinière cultivates a distinct and unique art of living.
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A port atmosphere
Cancale is steadfastly geared towards the sea and its pace of life is dictated by its fishing port, which you will see when arriving by the coastal road. It is impossible to tire of the picturesque scene of the port of La Houle down below and the fishermen's houses packed tightly together against the cliff. Climb aboard the Cancalaise for a trip out to sea and experience the way yesterday's sea fishermen worked, or wander along the wharf and enjoy the fish market when the boats come in.
The kingdom of the oyster
Oyster lovers will be in their element at the end of the port of La Houle on the 'Administrateur Thomas' quayside. Here, the stalls are filled to overflowing with baskets of freshly harvested "flat and cupped" oysters, direct from the producer. If your mouth is starting to water, try them just as they are or with a little lemon juice on the terrace of one of the many restaurants in the port, or sit by the oyster market looking out to sea and enjoy the friendly and lively mood around you. Cancale holds a national award as a "site of exceptional taste" and its environmental quality has been a source of inspiration for the finest chefs in the region, attracting lovers of fine food everywhere.
Also worth seeing
The lovely view from the church tower; the museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, where you can relive the history of the town and its Terre-Neuvas fishing campaigns, and learn about its various traditional customs; and the Marine Farm, where you can find out everything there is to know about oyster production.
