Étretat Cliffs
Iconic white chalk cliffs sculpted by the sea, featuring dramatic arches and needles, offering breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Étretat Cliffs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic white chalk cliffs sculpted by the sea, featuring dramatic arches and needles, offering breathtaking coastal views.
"The natural formation is in itself spectacular but it's the color of the ocean around it, the color of the cliffs, the sound of the ocean, the waves, the cries of the seagulls, the tall grass growing on the hills bending to the wind, the wild flowers, creating that picturesque landscape, all coming together for an unforgettable experience and ambience."
🚗 Park Smartly
Avoid parking in town; park further out & walk or arrive early. Locals may offer garden parking.
🚶♀️ Hike for Views
Climb the hills for breathtaking panoramic views. The walk is rewarding and offers unique perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Falaise d'Aval & L'Aiguille Creuse
Western side of the beach
The iconic natural arch and needle rock formation, a true symbol of Étretat. Absolutely breathtaking!
Falaise d'Amont
Eastern side of the beach
Offers panoramic views of the coast and the Falaise d'Aval. Home to the Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel.
L'Œil de Panda (Panda's Eye)
Hidden spot, ask locals or check maps
A unique, lesser-known cave and viewpoint offering a different perspective of the cliffs. A local secret!
La Manneporte
Along the coastal path
Another impressive natural arch, showcasing the raw power of the sea against the chalk cliffs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Parking & Access: Plan Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smartly
Avoid parking in town; park further out & walk or arrive early. Locals may offer garden parking.
🚶♀️ Hike for Views
Climb the hills for breathtaking panoramic views. The walk is rewarding and offers unique perspectives.
🤫 Discover Hidden Gems
Seek out spots like 'L'Œil de Panda' for a less crowded, unique experience. +1
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The cliffs and ocean create postcard-perfect shots. Be mindful of selfie risks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smartly
Avoid parking in town; park further out & walk or arrive early. Locals may offer garden parking.
🚶♀️ Hike for Views
Climb the hills for breathtaking panoramic views. The walk is rewarding and offers unique perspectives.
🤫 Discover Hidden Gems
Seek out spots like 'L'Œil de Panda' for a less crowded, unique experience. +1
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The cliffs and ocean create postcard-perfect shots. Be mindful of selfie risks.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a picnic to enjoy the serenity and stunning scenery from the clifftops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking natural beauty of the Étretat Cliffs, highlighting the spectacular rock formations, ocean views, and unique atmosphere. Many recommend climbing the hills for panoramic vistas and enjoying a picnic. However, the popularity means significant crowds and parking challenges, especially during peak times.
"The natural formation is in itself spectacular but it's the color of the ocean around it, the color of the cliffs, the sound of the ocean, the waves, the cries of the seagulls, the tall grass growing on the hills bending to the wind, the wild flowers, creating that picturesque landscape, all coming together for an unforgettable experience and ambience. When it's cloudy, the colors are so special somehow. The walk up to either side to the see the views is not bad at all, like a ten minute climb. Enjoy your experience! Take a picnic up to the top of the hill to enjoy the serenity longer!"
Elana Podvalniuk
"The place was very beautiful, but there were so many people and it took a very long time to find a parking spot. I recommend you to go there early morning to avoid the traffic. And I also recommend you to climb the hill. You could see the amazing view from there !"
Chisato Onda
"Absolute must see in the Normandy, breathtaking views and a unique feeling. Very crowdy, don’t try to park in the city , you will fail :) better to stay a kilometer or so before the coast and take a walk instead. Or go there early in the morning, then you will be able to find a parking spot near the edge. Otherwise be prepared paying 25euros / day to locals offering parking spaces in their gardens :)
Lot of restaurants and shops in the area, but most important are views from the cliffs. There’s also a small „train” which takes you to the cliff on the right (that one with church on the top) ."
mateusz kaleta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Le Havre, then take bus 21 to Étretat. The journey takes about 2-2.5 hours. You can also drive, but be prepared for parking challenges.
While the town is walkable, a small 'train' can take you to the cliff on the right side (with the church). For exploring further, walking is best.
Tickets for bus 21 can typically be purchased directly from the driver or potentially through a local transport app. It's advisable to have cash on hand.
Yes, you can drive to Étretat, but parking is very limited and can be expensive. Arriving early or parking outside the main town is recommended. +1
The main cliffs are accessible via paths from the town. For higher vantage points, hiking up the hills on either side is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Étretat Cliffs and the surrounding natural areas is generally free. You only pay for parking or any specific attractions within the town.
The cliffs are a natural formation and are accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
The beach at Étretat is free to access. You can stroll along the shore and admire the cliffs from below.
The main viewpoints overlooking the cliffs are free to access. Some private gardens or specific attractions might have a fee.
Yes, Étretat is a year-round destination. However, weather conditions can vary significantly, impacting the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Falaise d'Aval with its arch and needle is iconic. For wider panoramas, climb the Falaise d'Amont. Hidden spots like 'L'Œil de Panda' offer unique shots. +2
No, it is extremely dangerous. Tragically, there have been fatalities from tourists taking selfies too close to the edge. Prioritize safety over photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the cliffs and ocean. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Étretat town has numerous restaurants and shops offering local cuisine, seafood, and crepes.
Seafood is a must-try, given its coastal location. Also, sample traditional Norman dishes and local cider.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic to enjoy the views from the clifftops is a highly recommended experience.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like creperies or bakeries for sandwiches and pastries.
Most restaurants operate during typical lunch and dinner hours. It's advisable to check specific opening times, especially outside peak season.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Explore the town's charming streets, visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel, walk along the beach, and discover hidden spots like the 'Œil de Panda'. +3
There's a fair amount of walking, especially if you choose to park further away or hike up the cliffs for better views. Comfortable shoes are essential.
Stick to marked paths and stay well away from the cliff edges. The ground can be uneven and slippery, and there are significant drops.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly, and it can be windy.
Yes, Étretat is a popular day trip destination, especially from Paris, offering stunning scenery and a refreshing escape. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the dramatic scenery is captivating, ensure children understand the importance of staying away from cliff edges. The natural beauty and open spaces are perfect for energetic kids, and the unique rock formations spark imagination.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For hikers, the trails along the cliffs provide varying levels of difficulty and breathtaking scenery. The feeling of freedom and the vastness of the ocean can be particularly impactful for solo visitors.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting the charming town for a cozy meal at one of its many restaurants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Arches and Needles
Visitors can admire these natural wonders from various vantage points. Walking along the beach at low tide offers a unique perspective from below, while climbing the paths on either side of the bay provides breathtaking panoramic views. The Falaise d'Amont, on the eastern side, offers a different but equally stunning vista, crowned by the charming Notre-Dame de la Garde chapel.
Beyond the main attractions, exploring the coastline reveals other impressive formations like La Manneporte. The sheer scale and beauty of these natural sculptures make them a must-see for anyone visiting Normandy. Remember to check tide times if you plan to explore the beach area closely.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Another lesser-known area is the Grotte d'Amour (Cave of Love), which is sometimes associated with the 'Œil de Panda'. These spots offer a sense of discovery and a chance to escape the main crowds, allowing for a more personal connection with the dramatic landscape.
Many visitors recommend exploring beyond the most obvious viewpoints to find these quieter corners. The sense of adventure in uncovering these less-trafficked areas adds another layer to the Étretat experience, turning a simple visit into a memorable exploration.
History and Artistic Inspiration
Beyond artistic inspiration, Étretat also holds echoes of wartime history. Scattered remnants of German concrete bunkers can be found amidst the windswept plains, a stark reminder of the past that contrasts with the natural beauty.
The area also has a history tied to aviation, with the Oiseau Blanc (White Bird) monument commemorating a famous flight attempt. Exploring these historical elements adds depth to the visit, offering a richer understanding of the region's significance beyond its visual appeal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit