If you thought that Dover was the only place in Europe famed for its white cliffs, you’re far from in the minority. Contrary to popular belief, gleaming white cliffs aren’t exclusive to the south coast of the UK. Take a trip to France’s Alabaster Coast and discover a beautiful corner of the country that all too often goes overlooked.
Known informally as “The White Cliffs of Normandy”, this region has been inspiring artists, poets and romantics in general for centuries. It was a favourite of Monet and Pisarro alike – not to mention travellers from all over the world who visit the region each year.
The strip – know more formally as Côte d’Albâtre – stretches for more than 80 miles and has within its midst many pleasant towns, villages and coastal resorts. One of the easiest ways to reach The Alabaster coast is to take the car on the cross-channel ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre. As such, it’s a great destination for a simple, relaxed and enjoyable road trip. Even if you only have a weekend available, there’s still plenty of time to explore what’s on offer.
Just be sure to stop by a few of the highlights along the way, which include the following top-picks:
Le Havre
As you’ll most likely be exiting the ferry here anyway, you might as well take the time to explore one of France’s most important maritime port towns. Steeped in history, Le Havre is home to interesting buildings, galleries and unique local attributes. The historic town centre makes the perfect place for an aimless stroll with no destination, being sure to stop by the impressive Eglise St Joseph on your travels. And of course, it would be a shame not to sample the very best of the local cuisine served up at the eateries of Le Havre, which for the most part centre on high-quality seafood.
Etretat
The Côte d’Albâtre as a whole may be beautiful, but the cliffs of Etretat are a real highlight. You might have seen l’Aiguille (The Needle) in any number of photographs, but nothing can prepare you for the sight of the famous rock formation in real life. Less of an option, more an absolute must for a coastal stroll, or a more rugged hike for those out for a challenge. Weather-dependant, the beaches make for ideal afternoons in the sun, along with the perfect spot to take in the sunset. There are several local seafood restaurants around Etretat that are every bit as impressive as the coastline itself!
Fécamp
Here’s where you’ll find the highest of all cliffs in Normandy and a spot that Monet was particularly fond of. The peak rises a full 300 feet above the bay beneath, though to really take it in for all its worth you need to book yourself on a boat trip out into the bay. It makes a great excursion for the whole family (weather permitting) and there’s always the option of indulging in a spot of fishing.
Dieppe
It would be a shame to take the time to visit the Côte d’Albâtre and not also take the time to stop by Dieppe. A popular holiday destination for France’s most elite circles for generations, Dieppe really does have it all. The architecture is beautiful, its maritime history is enthralling, the beaches are great and the food is quite legendary. Dieppe has a well-earned reputation for serving up some of the best seafood in the world in any number of traditional cafes and restaurants that haven’t changed for generations. It’s also the kind of place where a total transformation occurs at sundown and many quiet streets suddenly burst into life.
Côte Fleurie
Last but not least, consider including Côte Fleurie in your road trip itinerary. It’s another example of a seaside haunt that was previously exclusive, though has since become much more accessible and considerably less snooty. Home to an annual American Film Festival that brings the rich and famous of Hollywood into the area, Côte Fleurie is also home to a strip of stunning sands referred to as “The Queen of Beaches”. Coupled with a world of amenities for the whole family, you could easily spend a week or two at the heart of Côte Fleurie and never run out of enjoyable things to do.