Fermanville: Viaduct, Lighthouse and Trails

Fermanville brings together the history of the Viaduc de Fermanville and the Phare du Cap Lévi with trails through forests, heathland and the Vallée des Moulins. Megalithic heritage, coastal landscapes and structures from different periods also shape the possible focuses of a stay. The named routes offer different distances and destinations to help you plan.

Architecture and history

The Viaduc de Fermanville was built between 1908 and 1911 from Fermanville granite for the railway line between Cherbourg and Barfleur. It is 242 metres long, 5 metres wide and 32 metres high. Its materials and dimensions, and its connection to the railway, come together in a structure dating from the early 20th century.

The history of the Phare du Cap Lévi goes back further: the lighthouse was built in 1858, destroyed during the 1944 landings and rebuilt after the war. The present-day Phare du Cap Lévi began operating in 1948 and was classified as a historic monument in 2009. Its square shape sets it apart from a cylindrical lighthouse. It is 28 metres high and has 113 steps.

The Vallée des Moulins is also where landscape and cultural history meet. Mills made from the region’s pink granite can still be seen there. At the entrance to the valley stands the Marie-Ravenel stele, inaugurated in 1905 and classified as a historic monument since 2006. The Rond des Sorcières is a surviving megalithic landmark in Fermanville’s landscape, shaped by the Bronze and Iron Ages.

The Port Lévi and the Batterie du Brulay offer further historical points of reference. The port was originally built for quarry workers transporting granite for the construction of the Cherbourg roadstead. The Batterie du Brulay, also called the Sea Eagle, was incorporated into the Atlantic Wall during the German occupation. Its historical significance can thus be considered alongside the town’s older granite and railway history.

Walking trails and routes of different lengths

Numerous trails cross the Vallée des Moulins and are suitable for walking. The Le Cap Lévi route starts at the Port Lévi car park. The 7-kilometre Les Landes hike climbs to the heights of Fermanville and the Batterie du Brulay; the Les Landes loop also leads into the protected coastal areas of the Conservatoire du littoral in Fermanville. Check local conditions before setting out.

A longer option is the 14.1-kilometre La lande et les bois de Fermanville route, which links wooded landscapes with open heathland. It crosses the Vallée des Moulins at the upper part of the Viaduc de Fermanville and is suitable for hiking and trail running. The GR®223 stage between Cap Lévi and Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is 19 kilometres long and heads towards Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. Check conditions before setting out on this route. At 7, 14.1 and 19 kilometres, the three routes can be distinguished by length; their described destinations and landscapes each offer a different focus.

Coastal landscapes and activities

A large part of the municipality lies within the Récifs et marais arrière-littoraux du Cap Lévi à la pointe de Saire Natura 2000 zone. At Anse du Brick, a fine-sand beach lies at the foot of the cliffs and is used for surfing and other water sports. Weather and sea conditions affect what you can do; take both into account when planning.

The Fort Napoléonien du cap Lévi now serves as an interpretation and leisure centre. Its outdoor areas can be visited free of charge. For horseback rides, Les Chevaux du Cap Lévi offers outings ranging from one hour to a full day. Confirm availability before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Sacey, La Pernelle, La Haye-Du-Puits, Bacilly, Tanis, Hambye, Siouville, Ouville.

For the broader travel overview: Manche.