What to See in Etretat

0 Comments

Etretat is an amazing little city on the coast of Normandy. It has inspired so many artists to paint its beautiful cliffs along the sea. Today, it still attracts many people to visit the location that inspired their favorite artists. And it seems like everyone has their favorite view of the beautiful cliffs. So here are the best things to see in Etretat. 

10. Golf: right on top of the cliff is a golf course. I can't imagine how easy it is to play with the wind, but on a non-windy day, the golf course gives for an amazing view. How often do you get to play on the cliffs?

9. Chemin des Douaniers: this hiking trail is quite the adventure. It takes you along the cliffs and gives you a great view of all the cliffs. It leads to other cities and other famous cliffs. But if you just want to go and get a great view of the city, this trail is the one for you. 

8. The Train: if walking around the hills is not for you, there is an adorable little train that passes around the city that will take you to the top. It is a nice experience as it shows you around but also takes you to the top for all the best views.

7. Les Jardins D'Etretat: the city even has its own garden and it is well manicured with plenty of statues and sites. The garden is up on a cliff so you get a great view of the city from the garden. If you enjoy walks through public gardens, this is a great way to enjoy the city. 

6. Old Town: walking around the city center is a great way to enjoy the beautiful architecture of the region. Normandy is known for its timber houses and Etretat is not short of those. The combination of the beautiful timber houses with the backdrop of the cliffs makes for a great view. 

5. Le Vieux Marché: this old market place is quite unique because it sells many beautiful items. But what I like most about is that it is a wooden structure and a covered market place. It makes you feel almost as if you are Medieval Times and wandering around an old world market.

4. Mussels: there is only one thing you need to eat on the coast and that is mussels. All of the restaurants in the city offer some variation of moules-frites and if you like mussels, you'll love this. So when visiting the city, make sure you find a nice location and enjoy a great meal. 

3. The Beach: the small beach of Etretat is unique because it isn't a beach of sand. Instead it is rather small river rocks that are washed ashore. So sunbathing can be a bit uncomfortable, but with the right pair of shoes, walking along the beach and admire the nature is quite enjoyable. 

2. Chapelle Notre Dame La Garde: this chapel gives for an amazing view of the cliffs. Standing high above the city, this chapel requires a hike up the steep hill. But once you arrive at the top, you are rewarded with one of the best views of the city. 

1. Aiguille d'Etretat: this translates to the needle of Etretat. It is a point of a cliff standing out just in front of the land and has been painted by so many people, including Monet. This point can be seen from many vantage points, but many choose to hike up on the cliff to see it from above.