Want to breathe in the Manche at the top of your lungs? Rent a bike in Yquelon and enjoy a gentle interlude between the Normandy bocage and iodized air. Two pedal strokes from Granville, and you're off along hedge-lined roads to the upper town, its ramparts and views over the bay. In the morning, head down to the port, listen to the halyards rattle, pick up a few local produce at the market, then climb quietly to the Pointe du Roc for a picnic facing the offshore islands.

To the south, the route skirts the sea towards Saint-Pair-sur-Mer and Jullouville: rolling ribbon, smell of sea spray, steady pace. To the north, the route leads through a patchwork of meadows to the havre de la Vanlée, where you can watch the birds as the tides change. The Vélomaritime is not far away, and offers well-marked segments to extend the ride. Take your time, stop and photograph the changing light over the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel.