Spending the night in Étretat is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in this picturesque coastal town, famous for its stunning white cliffs and artistic gardens. As one of the most beloved destinations in Normandy, Étretat is also an ideal base for exploring other attractions in the region.
You can choose from charming small hotels and cozy B&Bs within the old town or just outside it. During our research for our visit to Étretat, we discovered several unique gems, such as a hotel in a medieval half-timbered house and a beach villa in Belle Époque style. In this blog, we share our top recommendations!
What Étretat is Known for
Étretat is renowned for its spectacular cliffs and breathtaking coastline, which have inspired artists and writers for centuries. This picturesque seaside town on Normandy’s Côte d’Albâtre attracts hikers, nature lovers, and photographers who come to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and beaches.
Read More: 10 Things to Do in Étretat
Thanks to its magnificent scenery, Étretat has been an artistic inspiration for famous artists. Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and many other painters found inspiration in Étretat’s dramatic landscape. They immortalized the cliffs and coastal views in well-known works of art.
In addition, Étretat is famous for its rich literary history, particularly due to the adventure novels about Arsène Lupin. Written by Maurice Leblanc, these stories feature the gentleman thief Lupin, often referred to as the French Sherlock Holmes. Many of Lupin’s adventures take place in and around the cliffs of Étretat, giving the town a mysterious and adventurous reputation.
Étretat is also known for its seaside resort culture, which began in the nineteenth century. The village became a popular destination for the Parisian elite, drawn by the fresh sea air and picturesque landscape.
Best Places to Stay in Étretat
As one of the premier places to visit in Normandy, Étretat offers a wide range of hotels and B&Bs. From authentic half-timbered houses to luxurious villas and cozy guesthouses, there is something for everyone.
Here are the best accommodations in Étretat:
#1 Hotel La Résidence Manoir De La Salamandre is situated on one of the main streets of Étretat, instantly drawing your attention with the stunning facade of this historic building. It’s one of the town’s landmarks, and many rooms feature the original beamed ceilings.
#2 Domaine Saint Clair – Le Donjon is a luxury hotel boasting a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and terrace. Located in a Belle Époque style villa on the beach and a small 19th-century Anglo-Norman castle, it is surrounded by a large park filled with flowers and trees.
#3 Hotel Le Rayon Vert is one of the most popular hotels in Étretat. Housed in a stunning 19th-century building with sea views, the glowing reviews praise the ocean view, comfortable beds, perfect location, and delicious breakfast.
#4 Villa Eliane is a cozy guesthouse on the outskirts of Étretat with exceptionally high review scores. Everything is beautifully decorated and meticulously maintained, honoring the beautifully renovated historic building. Guests can rent bicycles to explore the surroundings.
#5 La villa 10 HÔTEL SPA is located in a magnificent old building in the city center. The rooms are stylishly modern with a keen eye for color and design. Every detail is picture-perfect.
