The pearl of Normandy's Alabaster Coast, Étretat is a natural site prized for the beauty of its cliffs. Outside of peak season, visitors enjoy this fragile site in a fun and respectful way. Unique walks and water sports allow visitors to soak up the spectacular sight of the famous needle rock and the incredible pristine cliffs. Discover our ideas for activities off the beaten track to rediscover Étretat while helping to preserve its environment.
#1 – Discover Étretat by the sea
More athletic visitors can discover the joys and water sports activities of the seaside resort. The village has a sailing club and school. Courses supervised by professionals allow you to discover the bay of Étretat through a wide range of activities: catamaran sailing, dinghy sailing, windsurfing, optimist sailing, and paddleboarding. Also worth noting: there is a surf and bodyboard school and club offering various courses and packages from May to September. Another great way to enjoy a rare view of the cliffs while helping to preserve them. Sailing and pebbles
#2 – Explore Étretat with the wind in your hair
Do you love horses? Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding in Étretat is simply magical. After a few minutes of instruction, the ride begins, and the height of the horse allows you to take in the landscape more fully. The experience is even more magical if you do it at sunset. Domaine Équestre Étretat
#3 – Sail to Étretat aboard an old sailing ship
Are you a sailor at heart? Head to Fécamp to board an old sailing ship! On board, you can help with the maneuvers, admire the panoramic view of the cliffs... and, if conditions allow, enjoy a spot of fishing. At the mercy of the winds
#4 – Admire Étretat with an expert
Visiting picture-perfect Étretat is great, but learning about its biodiversity with a specialist is even better! To do so, you can hire a professional nature guide who specializes in the Normandy coast for nature hikes. With a guide, you can discover seabirds, marine fauna, flora, and learn about geology. Various themes are available: shellfish gathering, bird watching, guided nature walks... So, get your good shoes and binoculars ready! Natterra Etretat
#5 – Visit Étretat from the garden side
Looking for an exceptional view of the famous Aiguille in a poetic setting? The Amont cliff awaits you with the enchanting backdrop of the 7 Gardens of Étretat, combining landscape art and sculptures. A delight for lovers of French gardens, contemporary art, and impressionist landscapes.
Jongkind, Monet, Boudin, Isabey, and many other painters of the Impressionist movement set up their easels on the pebbles of the Alabaster Coast to immortalize the cliffs of Étretat, contributing to the renown of the area. From Dieppe to Honfleur, the Impressionist journey covers part of the Normandy coastline. Enough to extend your stay around Etretat.
A fragile gem to be preserved
Roc Vaudieu and Aiguille de Belval, like Aiguille d'Etretat, are remnants of the cliff and its arches. They bear witness to the fragility of the chalk coastline, which is highly susceptible to erosion. This is why preserving the natural environment is a key concern for this seaside resort.
The development and maintenance of coastal paths remains a major priority due to the number of visitors. The cliff paths have been developed with respect for nature. There are regulations in place to preserve the natural beauty of the site (mountain bikes and horses are prohibited on the cliffs, and dogs must be kept on a leash) because the natural environment is home to flora and fauna that require ecological management.
Tips and recommendations
With nearly 1.5 million visitors each year, and up to 10,000 tourists per day in summer, the little paradise that is Étretat can quickly become stifling for lovers of nature and space. So, here's some advice if you want to enjoy this site in optimal conditions: opt for a stay out of season, in early spring, autumn, or even winter. Another option is to choose off-peak times for your excursions. At sunrise or sunset, the spectacle is simply magical, with the added bonus of having Étretat almost to yourself. And if you too would like to contribute to the preservation of this unique natural environment, while protecting yourself from potential risks, follow the markings and instructions on the information signs. Have a wonderful stay in Étretat!
By The editor
The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.
