Set on the Normandy coast, the Alabaster Coast is a must for anyone who loves the sea and a good dose of French culture. With its handsome beaches, towering cliffs and pretty seaside towns, this stretch of Norman shoreline has plenty to win over travellers looking for something genuine and a real change of scene.
The Alabaster Coast: a Normandy gem worth the trip
Just over two hours’ drive from Paris, the Alabaster Coast is one of those places you simply have to see in Normandy. Fishing villages, beautiful beaches and characterful old houses: this corner of the region has no shortage of things to do, whatever the length of your stay. Whether you come for a weekend or a full week, on your own or with the family, a trip along the Alabaster Coast will delight young and old alike. In short, it ranks among the loveliest places to visit in France. Let’s take a closer look at the spots you won’t want to miss during your stay:
Etretat: breathtaking cliffs
The emblem of the Alabaster Coast, the cliffs of Etretat draw thousands of visitors from around the world every year. Famous for the dramatic shapes carved out by erosion, they offer a view like no other, which you can take in from the coastal path or from the village beach. These tall chalk walls are part of the very identity of the place and make a wonderful setting for a seaside walk. A visit to Etretat is essential for anyone heading to the Alabaster Coast.
The Gardens of Etretat
Perched high on the cliffs, the Gardens of Etretat are a peaceful, green retreat dotted with contemporary sculptures and blessed with sweeping views over the coastline. They are a real treat for the eyes and the spirit, perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing.
Visiting the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde chapel in Etretat
This pretty neo-Gothic chapel stands at the top of the Amont cliff. It gives a panoramic view over the town of Etretat and the coast.
Fecamp: a pebble beach and much more besides
Known for its classic Norman pebble beach, Fecamp is also a town steeped in history and heritage. Be sure to visit the Abbey of the Trinity that towers over the town, the Palais Benedictine with its museum dedicated to the famous local liqueur, and the harbour, a reminder of the region’s long maritime tradition.
The coastal path between Etretat and Fecamp
For a different way to explore the Alabaster Coast, follow the coastal path linking Etretat to Fecamp (around 16 km). Along the way you’ll take in a wonderful variety of coastal scenery, from cliffs and coves to stunning views over both towns and the surrounding countryside.
Fecamp harbour and the fisheries museum
Fecamp is a major fishing port. It is also a popular spot for sailing, with plenty of restaurants and bars lining the quayside. Housed in a former cod-drying shed, the fisheries museum tells the story of fishing in Fecamp. A visit here is a great way to understand just how important fishing has been to this part of Normandy.
Dieppe: where the seafront meets ancient stone
A legendary town on the Norman coast, Dieppe welcomes visitors with a lively seafront, a long beach, a casino and inviting terraces. Do venture into the cobbled lanes of the old town to admire the charming half-timbered houses and uncover Dieppe’s rich past, not least through its two castle-museums and the church of Saint-Jacques. Dieppe is a firm favourite with tourists and artists, as well as with locals.
Le Treport: a seaside resort full of charm
On the edge of Normandy, the seaside resort of Le Treport charms visitors with its wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. Make the most of the beach, the cliffs and the harbour for a leisurely walk, and discover a town with an impressionist soul, captured on canvas by painters Eugene Boudin and Georges Seurat.
The Le Treport funicular
Don’t miss the chance to hop aboard the famous Le Treport funicular, which carries you to the top of the cliffs for a marvellous view over the area. It’s a memorable little experience during your visit to the Alabaster Coast.
Exploring the Cordiers quarter
This former fishermen’s quarter sits at the foot of the cliffs of Le Treport. It is known for its picturesque houses and narrow lanes. As you wander through this lovely neighbourhood, you can step back in time and discover the town’s history.
Le Havre: modern architecture at the heart of Normandy
A UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the bold architecture of Auguste Perret, Le Havre is a stop you shouldn’t skip on a trip through Normandy. Between its modernist, no-nonsense town centre, its long beach, its busy port and its many museums, Le Havre offers a wide range of cultural outings and relaxation to suit every taste.
Here are a few more ideas for things to see while you’re in Le Havre:
- The church of Saint-Joseph
- The Hanging Gardens
- The Andre Malraux Museum of Modern Art (MuMa)
Veules-les-Roses: a picture-perfect village on the Alabaster Coast
Every bit the Norman postcard, the charming village of Veules-les-Roses is the perfect place to wander and soak up the gentle pace of the Alabaster Coast. Stroll its flower-lined streets along the Veules, the smallest river in France, visit its mill and watercress beds, and don’t leave without tasting the famous Veules oysters! About fifty kilometres from Etretat, this small village with its picturesque charm makes for an unforgettable stop on your Normandy trip.
Saint-Valery-en-Caux: a seaside town with real character
Lying between Fecamp and Dieppe, Saint-Valery-en-Caux is an ideal base for discovering the Alabaster Coast. Its harbour, its cliff-framed beach and its half-timbered houses give it a genuine charm that’s a pleasure to explore.
A few ideas for places to see in this lovely town, less than three hours’ drive from Paris:
- The castle of Saint-Valery-en-Caux
- The fishing harbour
- The church of Saint-Valery
Yport: a coastal village not to be missed on your Normandy stay
Last but not least, tucked between two cliffs, the little village of Yport is a must-see on any visit to the Alabaster Coast. Treat yourself to a sweet pause with a crepe or an ice cream on the seafront before taking the coastal path towards Etretat or Fecamp to admire the striking views along this precious stretch of French coast. With its pebble beach, its cliff and its casino, Yport is a wonderful place to spend a day or two.
See Normandy differently with Normandie Rando
And why not set off to discover Normandy on a cycling holiday? Perfect on your own, with the family or with friends, a bike ride through Normandy is a sure way to make some wonderful memories. Normandie Rando, a specialist travel agency, gives you the chance to explore this superb region of France on an all-inclusive cycling break. Don’t wait any longer, come and enjoy an unforgettable experience in Normandy!
