Why You Should Visit Étretat, France: A Stunning Coastal Gem

If you’re looking for a peaceful part of France, think about Étretat on the Normandy coast. Étretat has dramatic white cliffs that have been gouged out by the sea into arches and needles. These natural wonders have long inspired many artists, writers, and adventurers—and will undoubtedly take your breath away.

But Étretat is so much more than just a pretty picture. Full of life, brimming with history, and full of things to do—from hiking around the cliffs to discovering Heritage to laying back on the beach—there is something for all seasons in Étretat. So here are some top things to do in Étretat, France, and why to tick that bucket list.

Hike the Cliffs of Étretat

Of course, the most famous and iconic place is Étretat, whose cliffs surround the town. There are three large arches: the Porte d’Aval, the Porte d’Amont, and the Manneporte. Many visit the Porte d’Aval due to the needle shape of the rock standing next to that arch, to which it gives its name, L’Aiguille. On the opposite side lies the Porte d’Amont, which has from above a chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. Yes, there is one big and most spectacular arch of them all, called Les Manneporte, but it cannot be shot from the town. One has to make a hike along the cliff.

The beauty of the cliffs is only appreciated by hiking the trails that go along the tops of the cliffs. The two primary paths would be one to the left of the village, down towards Porte d’Aval and Manneporte and one leading to the right towards Porte d’Amont and the chapel. The view from the sea takes in the town and the cliffs magnificently on either path. The trails are not exactly difficult but they are steep and slick in some parts. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks along with you.

It will be an approximate hour and a half walk to the Porte d’Aval and the Manneporte. You can start on the beach, where you’ll notice a sign for the GR21, a long-distance hiking trail through Étretat. Taste him pretty level up the steps; keep on going up and you’ll come to the first viewpoint, now with the Porte d’Aval and L’Aiguille showing. You can continue a bit along the cliff, passing by a golf course and a monument to pilots Nungesser and Coli, who attempted to cross the Atlantic in 1927. A bit further, you’ll reach the second viewpoint with the Manneporte, the largest arch in Europe. You can return via the same route; however, continue down to the beach, where you are able to then walk back into town.

Leaving from the centre of town, the hike to the Porte d’Amont and chapel will take an hour or so, round-trip, depending on the pace. You can leave from the centre of town, where there will be a sign for the GR21. Keep on this path gently up the hill until you have reached the first lookout point, which offers an overview of the Porte d’Amont and the town. From here, take another cliff path to the right, passing by a garden and a World War II bunker, until you reach a second viewpoint—the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. This small white building is perched on the edge of the cliff. Return by the same route, or the trail continues down to the beach, from where you can walk back into the town.

Investigate the Town of Étretat

Étretat isn’t just a characteristic heaven; it is also a beguiling town with a great deal of character. You can undoubtedly investigate the town by walking, as it isn’t exceptionally enormous. You will track down many shops, bistros, cafés, and displays along the central avenue, Mourn Alphonse Karr, and the promenade, Lane René Coty. You can likewise visit a portion of the town’s attractions, for example,

The market: Each Thursday morning, there is a market in the town where you can purchase new produce, cheddar, bread, fish, and other neighborhood strengths. It is an incredible method for encountering the neighborhood culture and cooking.

The congregation of Holy Person Joseph is a delightful Gothic structure that traces all the way back to the twelfth hundred years. It has a momentous stained glass window that portrays the existence of Holy person Joseph, the benefactor holy person of the town.

The exhibition hall: The historical center of Étretat is situated in a previous angler’s home, and it grandstands the set of experiences and legacy of the town. You can find out about the fishing business, the oceanic practices, the imaginative developments, and the popular characters that have visited or lived in Étretat, like Claude Monet, Fellow de Maupassant, Maurice Leblanc, and Gustave Courbet.

The nurseries: The nurseries of Étretat are a new expansion to the town, yet they have proactively turned into a well known fascination. They are situated on the precipice, over the Porte d’Amont, and they offer a dazzling perspective on the ocean and the curves. The nurseries are planned by the Russian scene craftsman Alexandre Grivko, and they highlight models, water highlights, and colorful plants.

Loosen up Around the ocean of Étretat

Assuming you are searching for some unwinding, you can go to the ocean side of Étretat, a significant length of stones that faces the ocean and the precipices. The ocean side is an extraordinary spot to partake in the sun, the breeze, and the waves. You can likewise swim, surf, kayak, or sail in the water, yet know that the ocean can be cold and harsh, so be cautious and observe the security guidelines. You can likewise lease a deckchair, a parasol, or a lodge near the ocean, and partake in the view in solace.

The ocean side of Étretat is likewise an incredible spot to watch the dusk, as the sky and the precipices transform into various shades of pink, orange, and purple. You can likewise see the lights of the town and the sanctuary on the bluff, making an otherworldly climate. You can either sit near the ocean, or go to one of the bars or cafés on the promenade, and partake in a beverage or a feast with a view.

Étretat is one of the charming towns that become a must-visit. Here, any kind of tourist—lovers of nature, history, art, or just an escape from a metropolis—will easily find his place. Étretat will capture your heart with its stunning cliffs, a cozy town, and its relaxing beach. It is a place any person will always remember and look forward to visiting time and again.

Related posts:
The Complete Travel Guide to Étretat, France — Becoming Carmen
Best Things to Do in Etretat, France | France Bucket List