Étretat is one of the most spectacular coastal destinations in France, famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs, natural sea arches, and breathtaking views over the English Channel. Located in the Normandy region, around 30 kilometres northeast of Le Havre, this charming seaside town has inspired artists, writers, and photographers for centuries.
Best known for its iconic cliffs carved by the sea, Étretat offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking along the clifftops, relaxing on the pebble beach, or discovering the town’s rich artistic heritage, Étretat is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Normandy.
Originally a small fishing village, Étretat has been inhabited since ancient times. During the 19th century, improved transport links transformed it into a fashionable seaside resort. Wealthy Parisians flocked to the coast, while artists such as Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and Eugène Boudin captured its extraordinary scenery on canvas.
The town has also inspired famous writers, including Guy de Maupassant and Maurice Leblanc, creator of the fictional gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, whose adventures are closely linked with Étretat and its mysterious cliffs.