Étretat, in the Upper Normandy Region, was introduced to the world of art by Claude Monet, one of the greatest impressionists of the 19th century. Both the cliffs of Étretat and the Alabaster Coast (Côte d'Albâtre) inspired many other artists, including Courbet and Boudin. This place has also appeared in Luc Besson’s movie “Lucy,” as the three natural arches and a pointed formation called “the Needle” are really impressive.
Two of the three arches can be seen from the town. If you want to see the biggest one, you need to take a small trip to the beach. The combination of cliffs and waves creates a unique seascape with colors that change dramatically depending on the weather conditions. If you want to see the seascape the way Monet did, you should definitely visit Étretat!
The most favorable weather conditions (which is rather unpredictable year round) are between April and October. However, if you wish to avoid crowds, then spring and autumn seasons would be your best bet. And if your target is a swimming vacation, then you must go in the peak summer months and put up with the crowds. You can also go in winter, but this is a gloomy chilly season, and you'll most likely see very little sun.
Small group day trips to Étretat & Le Havre run from Paris.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Étretat?
Étretat is at its best between April through October, with spring and autumn being the optimal seasons to avoid large crowds. With a gloomy winter season, the weather throughout the year is unpredictable. The seaside resort's beaches are particularly crowded during the summer months, which visitors may like or dislike, depending on their preferences. Show more
Which artists were inspired by Étretat?
Claude Monet, one of the greatest impressionists of the 19th century, introduced Étretat to the world of art. The cliffs of Étretat and the Alabaster Coast became a source of inspiration for other artists, including Courbet and Boudin, owing to the unique seascape created by the cliffs and waves that bears different colors depending on the weather conditions. Show more
What movie was shot at Étretat?
Luc Besson's movie 'Lucy' was filmed at Étretat, highlighting its three natural arches and a pointed formation known as 'the Needle.' While two of the three arches can be viewed from the city, only a small trip to the beach will enable you to see the largest one. The natural arches and formations, along with other features like cliffs and waves, make Étretat a renowned tourist destination. Show more
How many natural arches and formations can be seen at Étretat?
The cliffs of Étretat and the region feature marvellous natural formations such as the three natural arches and the Needle, a prominent pointed structure. Visitors may see two of the arches without travelling to the beach, while a visit to the beach is needed to see the largest archway. Étretat's beauty is further amplified by the colors of the seascape created by the cliffs and waves which change based on weather conditions. Show more
Are there any small group day trips from Paris to Étretat and Le Havre?
A guided small group day trip from Paris to Étretat and Le Havre allows visitors to appreciate Normandy's coastline beauty. Beyond strolling the beaches and exploring the cliffs, visitors are invited to uncover Normandy's unique cuisine through cooking classes. These day trips offer an enriching regional and cultural experience, which tourists may appreciate as an excellent way to explore Étretat and Le Havre's exceptional beauty. Show more
