Plage de la Vieille Église

Plage de la Vieille Église is a picturesque beach located in the town of Barneville-Carteret in Normandy, France. Known for its wild and serene atmosphere, it is marked by its vast expanse of fine sand stretching over 10 kilometers. The beach is bordered by large dunes and is characterized by its peacefulness, providing a tranquil environment for visitors. Despite its size, it is typically not very crowded. The beach is known for its natural beauty, featuring the ruins of an old church and a lighthouse located on top of the rocks. The beach is also a popular destination for surfers and walkers, with several walking trails of varying difficulty and duration nearby for visitors to explore. Swimming is prohibited due to strong currents, but visitors can enjoy the sea air and the scenic views. To reach Plage de la Vieille Église, visitors can follow the directions to Cap de Carteret and the lighthouse, taking the D902 road, then the route des Deux Plages, and finally the route de la Vieille Église. There is a free parking lot available, but the space is limited, so it is advisable to arrive early. From the parking lot, a trail leads to the beach. The beach has several amenities for visitors. During the months of July and August, two swimming areas are set up and lifeguards are present from 11 am to 7 pm to ensure the safety of swimmers. However, certain activities are restricted during the summer season. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, and horseback riding, equestrian events, and certain fishing activities are prohibited. Non-motorized and motorized watercraft are also not allowed in the swimming areas. Overall, Plage de la Vieille Église offers a serene and scenic beach experience, with various safety measures and restrictions in place to preserve the area's natural beauty.