Etretat Cliffs
Dramatic white chalk cliffs and natural arches on the Normandy coast - the sea-carved needles and arches that inspired the Impressionist painters.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Etretat is famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs on the Normandy coast, sculpted by the sea into soaring natural arches and a lone needle of rock rising from the waves. The clifftop walks give ever-changing views of these formations, which so captivated the Impressionists that Monet painted them again and again.
What you actually see
- The natural arches - the Porte d'Aval arch and the Aiguille needle.
- The Porte d'Amont - the arch and clifftop chapel at the other end of the beach.
- The clifftop walks - the paths along the top for the best views.
- The Impressionist connection - the scenes Monet and others painted.
When to go
Late spring to autumn for mild weather and clifftop walks; the light is loveliest early and late. Storms are dramatic but the cliffs erode, so keep back from the edges.
Honest expectations
It is popular, so the clifftop paths and the town are busy on fine weekends. The cliffs erode and edges are unfenced, so keep well back. Low tide reveals more of the arches and rock pools below.
Nearby
Le Havre and the Normandy coast are nearby; the D-Day beaches lie to the west.
What to pack for Etretat Cliffs
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
