High on the cliff, next to the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde, the view of Étretat is breathtaking. Literally. The wind is uprooting, and the panorama reveals raw beauty. Already in the 20th century, artists and writers appreciated it. Gustave Courbet, Claude Monet, Gustave Flaubert, Maurice Leblanc, and Guy de Maupassant were charmed by tempestuous Étretat and enriched it with a rich cultural, poetic, and romantic heritage. Located on the Côte d’Albâtre, along the English Channel coastline, this seaside resort, once a fishing village, has made a name for itself internationally. Undoubtedly, this is due to its monumental white chalk and flint cliffs, its pretty grey pebbles covering its beaches, and its majestic Needle that gives it its uniqueness. A must-see on a trip to the Côte d’Albâtre, here are our recommendations for hotels, restaurants, and outdoor activities for a few days.
Gain some altitude
The beauty of Étretat lies in its spectacular views. For a breath of fresh air, take one of the many paths overlooking the Channel and discover these natural sculptures – Courtine, Manneporte, the cliffs of Aval and Amont, the Roc Vaudieu and the Aiguille de Belval – all of them impressive. Book a walk with a Naterra nature guide to enhance your experience and knowledge. The poetic and contemporary Jardins d’Étretat showcase plant sculptures inspired by the Normandy coast, created by landscape architect Alexandre Grivko. A futuristic walk with a touch of nostalgia and history, completely surprising and very original. Don’t miss the Golf d’Etretat, one of the three most remarkable seaside golf courses in France, perched on the Norman cliffs overlooking the bay. Demanding and sublime, its course leads you to the famous hole n°10.
The food
History tells us that in the 17th century, Queen Marie-Antoinette had a fondness for the oysters of Étretat. This royal whim hasn’t escaped the attention of La Marie Antoinette Oyster Bar, a fantastic place offering gigantic platters of ultra-fresh seafood! A veritable explosion of iodine and crustaceans. While Breton crepes are often praised, it would be a mistake to underestimate the Norman ones. We particularly love the buckwheat galettes at the Crêperie Le Lann-Bihoué. Not only are they delicious, but they also cater for gluten-intolerant and vegan diners. Tested and approved! Don’t miss the poolside lunches at the Donjon-Domaine Saint Clair, which offers a lunch & swim menu from midday from June to August, and for a good brunch, head to the charming gourmet shop Aux Délices de Naty, which also offers a tea time.
Relax and unwind
Are you a nature lover? Les Cabanes de Cécile offers you a unique and sought-after rustic comfort. Make your nest in an 8-metre-high tree house in a magnificent setting with views of the sea and cliffs. Back on solid ground, opt for the refinement of the Dormy House, a hotel with an exceptional location and a quality restaurant. The Donjon-Domaine Saint Clair is also an excellent choice, with its gastronomic restaurant awarded 3 forks in the Michelin Guide, its private swimming pool and its brand new spa opening in 2018. A real bubble of well-being!
