I rented the Chateau la Monte Epinge last weekend for a birthday party with 28 guests. The chateau was absolutely perfect for what we wanted. It was just like being at home (albeit a very large version of home) and so comfortable and 'lived in' that we did not have to worry about the children or dogs and everyone was able to enjoy themselves. The rooms were large enough to get everyone together around the open fire in one room when we wanted but with 4 living rooms there was space for us to spread out between a dance area and a number of quieter rooms in the evenings. The surrounding forest was perfect for walking and we collected pockets full of... ...chestnuts to roast over the fire. Despite appearing to be really isolated, the chateau was actually within just a few minutes' drive of a major road, so it was easy to get to and from the ports and the Normandy beaches and other places of interest. Fiona and Marc were very helpful with information about things to do locally and in their recommendation of James and his team, who organised a dinner party for us on one of the nights we were at the chateau. All in all it was a great venue and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to rent a large house in France.
There is a phenomenal amount to do in Normandy. Cherbourg port is 15km away, and the charming town of Brix is 3km away. Surfing is possible of course and it is well worth visiting the Second World War landing beaches and museums.
For the nocturnal there is always the Cherbourg casino and night club.