The Cliffs of Etretat - Alabaster Coast

We have had two wonderful days in the village of Etretat on the Normandy coast. We weren’t sure what to expect here but it has exceed our hopes - so much so I will break up our blog into three sections: The Alabaster Coast, The Jardin D’Etretat, and Le Dojon Gastronomic Experience.

The Alabaster Coast, or Côte d'Albâtre in French, is a striking 80 mile stretch of the Normandy coastline made of magnificent white chalk cliffs and pebble beaches. Geologically similar to the cliffs at Dover, the Alabaster Coast forms the sea edge of a chalk plateau known as the Pays de Caux.

The area has provided writers and artists, especially the impressionists, with great inspiration. Monet, Sisley and many other impressionist artists painted canvases here.

We did walks south and north admiring the cliffs and solitary pinnacles under blue skies and calm seas. Perfect area for kayaks and SUPs. Fantastic 18 hole golf course along the cliffs as well.Read more