Étretat and its chalk cliffs: an unforgettable van road trip in Normandy

Discover Étretat, a Norman gem where the sea has sculpted the chalk for millennia. With breathtaking hikes, legendary arches and fishing villages, this guide takes you to the essentials, whether you're in a van or a motorhome.

Just two hours from Paris, Étretat is a magical stop for nature lovers and those who crave wide-open spaces. Here, there’s no need to rush: the chalk cliffs, pebble beaches and salty sea air invite you to take your time. This guide offers five must-see spots to explore from your van, with jaw-dropping landscapes and stories that stay with you long after you leave.

Falaise d'Aval and the Aiguille

The absolute symbol of Étretat, this 85-metre cliff is home to the Aiguille, a spectacular rock spire. The Customs Officers’ Path offers an unrivalled view of this geological wonder.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.7 Grass parking near an inn, water and showers on site. Easy access by bus (10 min) or on foot (49 min). › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Four private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. Absolute peace, 7 km from Étretat. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.8 Communal car park 5 min from the cliffs, toilets and fresh water. Excellent rating (4.8). › Camping Abijune Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite in greenery, grass pitches and modern facilities. 4 km from the cliffs. › Camping municipla d'Etretat Campsite ★ 3.8 Shaded municipal campsite, 1-2 km from the centre and cliffs. 70 spacious pitches. ›

Porte d'Aval

This natural arch, 45 metres high and carved by erosion, separates the English Channel from the Falaise d’Aval. It’s the perfect spot to watch the waves crash against the rock.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.7 Grass parking 3 km from Étretat, water and showers on site. Bus access (10 min) or on foot. › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Four private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 7 km from Étretat, absolute peace. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.8 Communal car park in Bénouville, toilets and water. 5 min walk from the cliffs. › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 Family-friendly 4-star campsite with indoor pool. 5 km from Étretat, spacious pitches. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid aire 1.5 km from the cliffs, water and waste disposal included. €14/night, close to the centre. ›

Porte d'Amont

Less famous but just as impressive, this 35-metre arch is best seen at low tide. The path leading to it winds through wild, untouched landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Four private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 7 km from Étretat, 7 min drive. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.8 Free car park in Bénouville, 5 min walk from the cliffs. Fresh water, toilets and sheltered table. › Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.7 Grass parking 3 km from Étretat, showers and toilets on site. Bus line 13 or 49 min walk. › Camping Abijune Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite in greenery, 4 km from the cliffs. Modern facilities, grass pitches. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid aire 1.5 km from the cliffs, water and waste disposal included. 20 min walk from Étretat centre. ›

Jardins d'Étretat

Ranked among France’s most beautiful gardens, they offer panoramic views of the sea and cliffs. Created in the 19th century, they blend topiary art with spectacular nature.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.7 Grass parking near an inn, water and showers on site. Easy access by bus or on foot (45 min). › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Four private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 7 min drive from Étretat (€12/night). › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.8 Quiet communal car park in Bénouville, toilets and fresh water. 41 min walk from the cliffs. › Camping Abijune Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star campsite in greenery, modern facilities. 39 min walk from the cliffs. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid aire 1.5 km from the cliffs, water and waste disposal included. 16 min walk from the centre. ›

Plage du Tilleul

This pebble beach, nestled between the cliffs, is ideal for a picnic or a swim at high tide. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a favourite with locals.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking with sea view Senneville-sur-Fécamp Parking ★ 4.1 Coastal car park in a forest facing the sea, 50 m from the cliffs. 5 min drive (4 km), free and peaceful. › Camping Le Rivage Campsite ★ 4.5 Terraced campsite with spectacular sea views, direct beach access. Rating 4.5, 6 min drive (5 km). › Motorhome area at Fécamp entrance Motorhome area ★ 4.1 Free municipal car park in town, shaded and close to the centre. 19 min walk, rating 4.1. › Camping les Falaises de Toussaint Campsite ★ 4.4 Quiet family campsite near Étretat, spacious pitches with electricity. 5 min drive (5 km), rating 4.4. › La Pature Campsite ★ 3.6 Natural grass campsite overlooking Yport, close to the beach. 6 min drive (6 km), rating 3.6. ›

Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde

Perched on the heights of Étretat, this chapel offers an exceptional viewpoint over the bay. A place steeped in history and serenity, perfect for a moment of quiet reflection.

Where to sleep nearby

La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Four private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 7 km from Étretat, 7 min drive. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.8 Free car park facing Étretat’s cliffs, water and toilets. 39 min walk, absolute peace. › Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.7 Grass parking 3 km from Étretat, showers and bus line 13. 49 min walk, rating 4.7. › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 4-star campsite with heated pool, spacious pitches. 5 km from Étretat, 6 min drive. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid aire 1.5 km from the cliffs, water and waste disposal included. 20 min walk, €14/night. ›

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