🍂 Normandy in September: Peaceful, Colourful, and Cheaper!

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First published: September 2025

Last updated: November 2025

Planning a holiday to Normandy in September? Wondering what’s on in Normandy in September or what to do near Coutances during early autumn? You’ve picked the perfect month. September in Normandy means mild weather, fewer tourists, stunning sunsets, and countryside bursting with harvest activity. If you’re searching for what’s happening in Normandy in September or what’s on in La Manche this month – read on for our full local guide.

🌻 Peaceful Surroundings

By September, the busy tourist season has eased off. That means the beaches, towns and villages of Normandy regain their calm, local rhythm. From the flower-filled streets of Bayeux to the peaceful abbey ruins at Hambye, you can explore without jostling for space. Even major sights like Mont-Saint-Michel feel more serene, especially early in the day.

🍁 Vibrant Autumn Colours

Normandy starts its autumn show in September. The trees in the Vire Valley, along the coast near Hauteville-sur-Mer, and even in town parks like Coutances and Caen, begin to glow with warm reds, golds and oranges. If you love long countryside walks, September offers fresh air, crisp mornings and a soft golden light perfect for photos.

💸 Lower Prices

Accommodation, travel and restaurant prices all begin to drop after the peak of August. September is ideal for those looking to experience Normandy’s best – without peak season prices. Many local restaurants begin to offer more traditional, hearty fare, and set menus become even better value.

🦪 Mussels at Their Best

If you’re a seafood fan, September marks the start of Normandy’s mussel season. Mussels are best eaten from September to April, and local restaurants begin serving them with fries and crusty bread alongside a cold glass of cider. Whether it’s moules marinières or a creamy seafood gratin, this is your chance to taste the coast at its freshest.

🍏 Apple Harvests & Autumn Fields

September is apple harvest season. Orchards around Coutances, Bayeux and Granville are full of ripe fruit ready for cider-making. The countryside is busy with tractors harvesting corn, barley and maize. It’s an energetic, authentic time to be here – and a great month for visiting local cideries and farm shops. La Manche has two protected designations of origin for its cider: the PGI Cidre de Normandie (Cidre Normand) and the PDO Cidre Cotentin. Learn more about Normandy cider traditions in our Cider Tasting blog.

🌊 The Sea is Warmer!

Believe it or not, the sea is usually at its warmest in early September. A late summer swim at Hauteville-sur-Mer or Agon-Coutainville can be surprisingly pleasant. Beach cafés stay open through the month, so you can grab a coffee or ice cream after your paddle.

🎪 What’s On in Normandy in September?

So, what’s on in La Manche in September? This is a great month for vide-greniers (French attic sales), brocantes, and local food festivals. Many villages and towns hold harvest celebrations, music events, and family-friendly fairs. What’s happening near Coutances in September? Expect concerts, farm markets and countryside walks.

🚗 Easier Roads & Parking

September is the perfect time for scenic road trips – the roads are calmer, parking is easier, and driving is simply more pleasant. Try the coastal road between Granville and Coutainville, or head inland to the rolling hills of the bocage. Stop at a local cider mill or roadside produce stall for a taste of the season.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly but Calmer

With the French school term restarting in early September, theme parks, zoos and family attractions are much quieter. Places like Champrépus Zoo, the Jardin des Plantes in Coutances, and local beaches offer a relaxing day out with children – without the long queues.

🌿 Walking & Cycling Weather

Cool mornings and sunny afternoons make September ideal for outdoor adventures. Explore the Voies Vertes (Greenways) around Coutances by bike, or head to the dunes of Hatainville for a windswept beach walk. Things to do in Normandy in September absolutely include coastal hikes, countryside rambles and woodland trails.

📍 Day Trip Ideas

• 🌅 Visit Mont-Saint-Michel at sunrise for an unforgettable view
• 🏰 Explore the medieval streets and market in Bayeux
• 🪖 Pay tribute at the D-Day beaches, less crowded this month
• 🧺 Discover brocantes and vide-greniers for vintage treasures
• 🎣 Try fishing or sailing in Granville or Regnéville-sur-Mer

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Normandy in September?

Whether you’re seeking peace, romance, nature or great food, September delivers it all – with fewer crowds and golden light. The weather is generally kind, the landscapes are beautiful, and there’s so much happening in Normandy in September for those who want a deeper, more relaxed holiday experience.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Normandy in September, or what’s happening near Coutances, the answer is: quite a lot! And it’s all yours to discover.

Ready to explore Normandy?