• Etretat

A charming seaside town on the coast of the English Channel in Normandy, France, 88 km northwest of Rouen, and 28 km north of the town Le Havre. Etretat is famous for its 70 meters high chalk cliffs, three natural arches, and the 70 meters high pointed formation, the Needle, rising from the sea. The cliffs, the sea structures, and the beach resort have inspired many painters, including Boudin and Monet, and were featured in many novels and in a film. Stroll the small-cobbled streets of the bustling town with its Medieval timbered colored houses and fishing cottages. Along the beach promenade you will enjoy the small local shops, boutiques, galleries, and the great local sea food cuisine in the local restaurants and cafes. Visit the old market hall on the Place Foch, presenting Medieval wooden architecture, and shop for local products and souvenirs.
Spend some time in the fine pebbled beach, enjoying the tranquil turquoise waters. Etretat offers many coastal trails, but especially beautiful is the clifftop trail leading to the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde perched on the cliffs above the sea. The easy to moderate trail starts in town and continue up the cliffs offering overwhelming scenery. The region offers also other outdoor activities including beautiful cycling trails, horseback riding, windsurfing, diving, golfing, and tennis. Visit Etretat in Spring or Autumn as its quite crowded in the Summer. Reach town by driving from Rouen or Le’ Havre as part of your travel in Normandy and spend 1-2 days including hiking to the top of the cliffs and enjoying the magnificent land and sea scenery.

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