Visit the cliffs of Étretat in Normandy
The cliffs of Étretat are among the most spectacular natural sites in France. Located on the Côte d’Albâtre in Normandy, these exceptional geological formations attract millions of visitors from all over the world every year. With their majestic arches sculpted by marine erosion, their famous Aiguille and their breathtaking panoramas, the cliffs of Étretat offer a grandiose natural spectacle that has inspired many artists, from Claude Monet to Maurice Leblanc. Whether you’re a keen walker, a keen photographer or simply in search of exceptional scenery, a visit to the cliffs of Étretat is an unforgettable experience during your stay in Normandy.
See also the Normandy guide :
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- Top 5 things to do in Le Havre
- Top 7 culinary specialities in Le Havre
- 15 châteaux and manor houses to visit in Normandy
- The 9 best places for canoeing in Normandy
1. How to get to the cliffs of Étretat
The cliffs of Étretat are easily accessible from the main towns in Normandy and the Paris region. The town of Étretat is in the Seine-Maritime département, around 200 kilometres from Paris, 90 kilometres from Rouen and 30 kilometres from Le Havre. There are several options for visiting the cliffs of Étretat, depending on your point of departure.
By car, from Paris, the journey takes around 2 hours via the A13 motorway towards Rouen, then the N27 towards Dieppe and finally the D925 to Étretat. From Le Havre, just 30 kilometres away, you can reach Étretat in less than 30 minutes via the D940. Be warned, however, that parking can be tricky in high season. There are several pay-and-display car parks in the town centre, with charges ranging from €2 to €5 depending on the duration of the stay. We strongly recommend arriving early in the morning to find a space easily, especially in summer and on sunny weekends.
By public transport, the nearest station is in Le Havre. From Paris, take a train to Le Havre (around 2 hours’ journey), then take bus route 24, which serves Étretat directly from Le Havre station. The bus journey takes around 1 hour. Be sure to check the timetable in advance, especially out of season when bus frequency is reduced. For those who prefer a more independent approach, Navaway offers an audio-guided itinerary to discover Le Havre in depth before reaching Étretat.
2. What to see on the cliffs of Étretat
The cliffs of Étretat offer a series of exceptional rock formations that have made this natural site world-famous. Each formation has its own special features and deserves special attention during your visit.
The Aval cliff and its emblematic arch
The Aval cliff is undoubtedly the most photographed formation in Étretat. Located to the west of the beach, it is distinguished by its spectacular natural arch, the Porte d’Aval, which the waves have patiently sculpted over thousands of years. This monumental arch rises more than 70 metres above sea level and offers a breathtaking spectacle, particularly at sunset when the orange rays illuminate the white chalk. At the top of the Aval cliff, you’ll find a pathway that allows you to admire the arch from different angles. The panorama from this vantage point takes in the whole of the bay of Étretat and reveals the majesty of the Aiguille, the stone obelisk that rises 55 metres in front of the arch.
The Aiguille and its legendary mystery
The 55-metre-high Aiguille d’Étretat fascinates as much as it intrigues. This isolated rock formation in the sea inspired Maurice Leblanc to write his famous novel “L’Aiguille creuse”, in which he imagines that this pillar of chalk houses Arsène Lupin’s secret treasure. Reality may differ from fiction, but the Aiguille is no less impressive. Seen from the top of the Aval cliff, it appears fragile in the face of the repeated assaults of the waves, yet it has stood firm for thousands of years. Photographers particularly appreciate the play of light that is created around the Aiguille, offering different shots depending on the time of day and the weather conditions.
La Manneporte, the monumental arch
Even more imposing than the Porte d’Aval, the Manneporte lies to the south-west, accessible after a 30-minute walk from the centre of Étretat. This colossal arch is almost 90 metres high and 30 metres wide, making it one of the largest natural arches in France. Guy de Maupassant claimed that a ship could have passed under the Manneporte at high tide, which bears witness to its extraordinary dimensions. The path to get there requires a good level of fitness, with sloping sections and steps, but the effort is amply rewarded by the spectacular views. At low tide, you can approach the foot of the Manneporte to better appreciate its breathtaking size.
The Amont cliff and the Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel
The Amont cliff, to the east of Étretat beach, offers a panoramic view of the entire site. At the summit stands the Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel, a neo-Gothic building built in the 19th century that has watched over sailors and fishermen for generations. The climb up the Amont cliff is via a staircase built from the promenade. Once at the top, you’ll discover not only the chapel with its beautiful, colourful stained glass windows, but also a breathtaking view of the Aval cliff, the Aiguille and the entire Normandy coast. Near the chapel stands the Nungesser and Coli monument, erected in 1963 in tribute to the two French aviators who attempted the Atlantic crossing in 1927. This historic site adds a moving dimension to the natural beauty of the area.
3. The best walks on the cliffs of Étretat
The hiking trails that criss-cross the cliffs of Étretat offer unforgettable experiences for all abilities. The GR21, a long-distance hiking trail that runs along the entire length of the Côte d’Albâtre, crosses Étretat and allows you to explore the cliffs in their entirety.
Download the audio tour to discover Le Havre on foot and on your own
To extend your discovery of the Normandy region, don’t hesitate to explore Le Havre, just 30 kilometres from Étretat. This UNESCO-listed port city with its unique architectural heritage is well worth an in-depth visit. TheNavaway Le Havre itinerary guides you through 18 major places of interest, from Notre-Dame Cathedral to the MuMa (André Malraux Museum of Modern Art), via Auguste Perret’s iconic Saint-Joseph church. This audio guide to Le Havre lets you discover the city on your own, with enlightening commentaries on its history, its Reconstruction architecture and its dynamic port.
The Aval cliff path at La Manneporte
This 3-kilometre round trip is the most popular way to visit the cliffs of Étretat. Allow 1? to 2 hours to complete the whole loop. You start from the town centre, taking the steps up to the Aval cliff. The well-marked path then skirts the edge of the cliff, offering spectacular views of the Aval arch and the Aiguille. After a 30-minute walk, you’ll reach La Manneporte. Be aware that some sections can be slippery, especially in wet weather, and the cliff edge does not always have safety barriers. Wear suitable footwear and be vigilant, especially with children.
The Upstream cliff loop
Shorter and more accessible, this 2-kilometre walk is perfect for families. From the beach, take the staircase up the cliff to the Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel and the Nungesser and Coli monument. The path then continues along the cliff towards the north, offering magnificent views of Étretat and the cliffs opposite. This walk takes around 1 hour and allows you to appreciate the cliffs from a different angle. You can return by the same route or by taking the Rue Guy de Maupassant back down to the town centre.
The GR21 long-distance hike
For more experienced walkers, the GR21 offers longer, more demanding sections. From Étretat, you can reach the Antifer lighthouse to the north (around 10 kilometres, 3 hours) or the village of Yport to the south (around 7 kilometres, 2? hours). These routes allow you to discover other parts of the Côte d’Albâtre, with varied landscapes alternating between breathtaking cliffs, green valleys and exceptional views over the English Channel. Take water and provisions with you and check the weather forecast before setting off, as these routes are exposed to the wind and can become difficult in bad weather.
4. Visit the Gardens of Étretat
Created by Russian landscape architect Alexandre Grivko and inaugurated in 2017, the Jardins d’Étretat are a unique experience combining contemporary art, plant sculptures and extraordinary maritime panoramas. Perched on the Aval cliff, these gardens cover more than 7,000 square metres and offer a walk through seven themed areas where nature meets artistic creation.
The Avatar garden plunges you into a world inspired by luxuriant nature, with organically shaped topiaries that look like something out of a science fiction film. The Emotions garden plays with perspective and volume to create surprising atmospheres. The Elements garden celebrates the power of nature with sculptures evoking water, fire, earth and air. And don’t miss the Zen garden, a haven of peace inviting you to meditate on the immensity of the sea.
A visit to the Jardins d’Étretat takes around 1? to 2 hours. Admission costs €10 for adults and €5 for children (2025 prices). The gardens are open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season. From the various terraces, you can enjoy spectacular views of the cliffs, the Aiguille and the English Channel. To complete your discovery of Étretat, let yourself be guided by the Navaway itinerary, which allows you to explore the region on your own.
5. Étretat beach and activities
The pebble beach at Étretat, framed by the majestic Aval and Amont cliffs, offers an exceptional setting in which to relax and enjoy the English Channel. Unlike sandy beaches, the pebbles create a special atmosphere, with the characteristic sound of the waves rolling over the stones. The beach had its heyday in the 19th century, when Étretat became a popular seaside resort for the Parisian aristocracy. Today, it retains its authentic charm and attracts visitors who come to admire the unique panorama of the cliffs.
There are several water sports available on the beach at Étretat. Sea kayaking allows you to approach the cliffs from the sea, offering a totally different perspective on these chalk giants. The kayak trip usually lasts 2 hours and takes you to the foot of the Aval Arch and the Aiguille. For the more adventurous, you can also paddle along the cliffs in the calm of the sea. Boat trips are also organised from the beach, with commentaries on the geology and history of the cliffs.
Swimming is supervised in summer, but beware: the sea can be cool even in high summer and the currents can be strong. Check the conditions before taking the plunge. Families will love the many beachside restaurants and cafés serving Norman specialities, including freshly caught seafood.
6. Le Clos Lupin and Arsène Lupin’s legacy
Maurice Leblanc, creator of the gentleman burglar Arsène Lupin, lived in Étretat and drew much of his inspiration from the cliffs to write “L’Aiguille creuse”, one of the most famous novels in the series. Le Clos Lupin, the writer’s former home now transformed into a museum, allows visitors to discover the fascinating world of Arsène Lupin through an immersive and entertaining scenography.
A visit to Le Clos Lupin will plunge you into the atmosphere of the Belle Époque, as you follow in the footsteps of the famous burglar through various themed rooms. You’ll discover Maurice Leblanc’s office, period objects, original documents and reconstructions of scenes from the novels. There’s also an outdoor trail through the garden, where you can admire the cliffs that so inspired the writer. The museum charges around €8 for adults and €5 for children. Allow around 1 hour for the full tour. It’s an excellent family activity, particularly popular with children, who can play detective.
7. The geological history of the Étretat cliffs
The cliffs of Étretat were formed around 90 million years ago, during the Upper Cretaceous. At that time, the entire region was covered by a warm, shallow sea. The countless shellfish and marine micro-organisms that lived in these waters accumulated on the seabed over the millennia. Their compression and transformation gave rise to chalk, the white limestone that forms the cliffs today.
Marine erosion then sculpted these cliffs over millions of years. Waves, wind, freezing and thawing carved away the soft chalk, creating the spectacular arches we admire today. This process of erosion continues today, with the cliffs retreating by an average of 20 centimetres a year. Landslides are a frequent occurrence, particularly after periods of frost or heavy rain, which is why it is forbidden to approach the cliffs unsecured.
The horizontal striations visible on the cliffs correspond to different layers of sediment deposited over millions of years. The darker bands are made up of flint, a very hard rock formed by the concentration of silica. These flints were used by prehistoric man to make tools.
8. Practical tips for visiting the cliffs of Étretat
To make the most of your visit to the cliffs of Étretat, a few tips are in order. First of all, choose your visiting period carefully. Summer offers the best weather conditions, but it’s also the busiest time of the year. Spring and autumn are excellent compromises, with fewer people and often good light for photographers. Winter can be beautiful, especially after a storm, but expect difficult conditions with wind and rain.
Check the tide tables before your visit, especially if you plan to approach the cliffs from the beach. At high tide, some passages become inaccessible and dangerous. The best times to photograph the cliffs are at sunrise and sunset, when the low-angled light sublimates the white chalk and creates spectacular shadows.
Make sure you are properly equipped for the hike, with closed, non-slip footwear. The paths can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. You should also bring warm, windproof clothing, as the wind is often strong at the top of the cliffs. A hat and sun cream are essential in summer, as there is no shade on the cliffs.
Follow the safety instructions to the letter. Do not approach the unstable edge of the cliffs and stay on the marked paths. Rockfalls are unpredictable and can occur without warning. Keep a close eye on children who may be tempted to approach the void. For an even more rewarding discovery of the Normandy region, consider using the Navaway audioguide tours available in several towns in Normandy.
9. Where to eat in Étretat
Étretat has plenty of good places to sample Normandy’s specialities. Seafood naturally plays a key role in the local cuisine. Beachside restaurants offer platters of oysters, scallops and freshly caught langoustines. Don’t miss the marmite dieppoise, a delicious fish and seafood soup with Normandy cream.
There are also plenty of crêperies offering excellent value for money. Filled buckwheat pancakes and sweet crêpes with salted butter caramel will delight your taste buds. For a quick lunch, the little kiosks on the beach sell sandwiches and fried fish to enjoy facing the sea.
When it comes to regional specialities, Normandy is renowned for its cheeses. Camembert, livarot, pont-l’évêque and neufchâtel are a must. Pair them with a glass of Norman cider, the region’s signature drink. For dessert, try a Normandy apple tart flambéed in calvados.
10. Where to stay to visit the cliffs of Étretat
Étretat offers a wide choice of accommodation to suit all budgets. The charming hotels in the town centre offer the luxury of being able to walk to the cliffs in just a few minutes. A number of establishments occupy former Belle Époque villas with views of the sea and cliffs. You can expect to pay between 80 and 200 euros a night, depending on the standard of accommodation and the season.
Bed and breakfast is an excellent alternative for enjoying the warm welcome of the Normans. Many traditional houses offer comfortable rooms with breakfast included, often prepared with local produce. Rates generally range from €60 to €120 per night for two people.
For those on a tighter budget, campsites and holiday rentals offer more affordable accommodation in Étretat and neighbouring villages. Book well in advance in high season, as accommodation quickly fills up. If you’re also planning to visit Le Havre, you might consider staying there and travelling there and back in the same day, as the port city offers a wider choice of accommodation.
11. Artists inspired by the cliffs of Étretat
The cliffs of Étretat have held an irresistible fascination for many artists since the 19th century. Claude Monet is one of the most famous painters to have been inspired by these landscapes. The Impressionist artist spent several periods in Étretat between 1883 and 1886, producing almost eighty canvases depicting the cliffs in different light and weather conditions. His works, which are held in the world’s leading museums, have made a major contribution to the international reputation of the site. The MuMa in Le Havre houses several of his major Impressionist works.
Gustave Courbet also immortalised the cliffs of Étretat in several remarkable paintings, notably “La Mer orageuse” (The Stormy Sea) painted in 1869. His more realistic vision contrasts with Monet’s impressionist approach. Guy de Maupassant, who knew the region intimately, described the cliffs in several of his short stories, notably comparing the Aval cliff to “a giant elephant plunging its trunk into the water”. This poetic image has remained famous and continues to inspire visitors.
More recently, the cliffs of Étretat have been used as a backdrop for numerous films and TV series. Their instantly recognisable silhouette has made them a popular film location for French cinema. This multi-faceted cultural presence greatly enriches a visit to the site, with each vantage point recalling a work of art or a scene from a novel.
In conclusion, visiting the cliffs of Étretat is an unforgettable experience that combines the discovery of an exceptional natural heritage, hiking in a spectacular setting and immersion in the cultural and artistic history of Normandy. Whether you come for a day or a longer stay, these chalk giants will provide you with unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to round off your discovery of the region by exploring neighbouring towns such as Le Havre on the Navaway audio tours, which will allow you to grasp the full richness of Normandy’s heritage on your own.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to visit the cliffs of Étretat?
You only need half a day to discover the main viewpoints of the Aval and Amont cliffs. Allow a full day if you want to hike up to Manneporte and visit the Jardins d’Étretat or Clos Lupin.
When is the best time to visit the cliffs of Étretat?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the best conditions, with fewer crowds and beautiful light. Summer is magnificent but very busy. Winter can be spectacular after a storm, but the weather conditions are more difficult.
Are the cliffs at Étretat accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Étretat’s beach and town centre are accessible, but the cliff paths have steps and steep slopes that make them difficult for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. Check with the Tourist Office to find out what facilities are available.
Can you swim at Étretat?
Yes, swimming is supervised on Étretat’s pebble beach in summer. However, beware of the cool water and strong currents. Find out about the conditions before going for a swim and follow the instructions of the lifeguards.
Are there guided tours of the cliffs at Étretat?
Yes, the Étretat Tourist Office offers guided walking tours with commentary on the geology, history and legends of the cliffs. Boat trips are also available to admire the cliffs from the sea. To explore the region on your own, discover the Navaway audio tours available in several towns in Normandy.
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