Port en bessin

Discover Port-en-Bessin, the jewel of Normandy’s coastline, just a stone’s throw from our campsite Located just a few minutes from Camping La Roseraie d’Omaha, Port-en-Bessin-Huppain is a charming fishing port nestled between the D-Day beaches and the historic town of Bayeux. This authentic little corner of the Bessin region boasts a peaceful atmosphere, lively quays and a rich maritime heritage.

A typical, lively fishing village

Port-en-Bessin is Normandy’s leading artisanal fishing port, renowned for its scallops. Take a stroll along the harbor, and you’ll discover colorful trawlers, fresh fish markets and restaurants offering short-run seafood products.

An ideal destination for lovers of the sea and history

Along the streets, you’ll come across traces of the region’s maritime and military past, including the Vauban Tower and the Mémorial des Marins. It’s also a key site of the Battle of Normandy, making it a must-see for history buffs.

A place steeped in history, at the heart of the D-Day landings

Port-en-Bessin played a strategic role during the Second World War, particularly during Operation Overlord. Liberated on June 7, 1944 by British Royal Marine commandos, the port was quickly transformed into a crucial supply point for Allied forces. This position made it an essential logistical link between Omaha and Gold beaches.

D-Day oil: Operation PLUTO

The little-known but fascinating story of Operation PLUTO (Pipe-Lines Under The Ocean) has left its mark on Port-en-Bessin. It was here that the submarine pipeline to supply troops with fuel from England arrived. This ingenious network supported the Allied advance while limiting vulnerable convoys. Even today, this memory is preserved through relics and testimonies accessible to visitors.

Activities for the whole family

Hike the cliffs, take a boat trip, go fishing or discover the nearby beaches… Port-en-Bessin is a family-friendly, nature destination par excellence. The must-see event of the year? The “Taste of the Sea” Festival, featuring fishing and gastronomy from Normandy.

Several sites bear witness to its rich history, both maritime and military:

  • The Vauban Tower: a 17th-century defensive vestige offering panoramic views of the port and coastline. It was part of the surveillance system set up to protect the coastline.
  • Le Mémorial des Marins: located near the cemetery, pays tribute to sailors lost at sea, both civilian and military. This moving place of remembrance overlooks the cliffs and invites you to reflect.
  • The port and its historic quays: where you can still see traces of the installations linked to Operation PLUTO. Explanatory panels trace the key role played by Port-en-Bessin during the Liberation.
  • Finally, the surrounding cliffs are ideal for a walk with a view, while discovering the landscapes crossed by Allied troops in 1944.

Stay close to Port-en-Bessin

When you stay at our campsite near Port-en-Bessin, you’ll enjoy fast access to this pearl of the coastline, while enjoying the peace and quiet of the countryside. An ideal base for exploring the Bessin, the Côte de Nacre and the D-Day beaches.