The famous cliffs. Of course this will be mostly the main reason one comes to this town. And it was…read morethe reason for our visit as well. The north of France is lovely and has some great spots. This is one of these great spots. Just be prepared that you won't be the only one around when visiting. When we arrived - on a weekday during Covid-19 - it was packed. Like really really packed. No chance for a parking lot in town or even the big lot a bit outside of town. Parked it somewhere a bit uphill east of the town, just beside the street like many other french folks did (turned out well). The cliffs and rock formations are indeed impressive Choose to walk up the cliffs on the left or on the right of the town and its beach. The more interesting formations though are on the left, the western side I'd say. The stone beach is a nice place to have a quick rest and to get some really good views of the cliffs/formations. Swim, if you like and dare - because the water is cold, even in summer. There's a narrow path leading up to the cliffs and to the formations. Also to some bigger viewing platforms. It is very narrow and difficult at times. Not difficult because it's a really tough hike. Because it's not so bad, even our English Bulldog managed to walk the whole way up and down again. But it was so overflowing with visitors, that it was hard to pass by. Because some sections are so narrow that only one person fits. And now imagine folks going up AND going down...also the first section with the stairs are a bit difficult (and slippery). But it's worth it. Bring a bit of time, a bit of patience. We've seen moody and rushing visitors. Dont' be one of them. If you visit a place like this, take your time. LOOK at the place and enjoy it. But one selfie and a post on social media seems to be enough for many. Too bad, you're missing out. Once you made it to the top it gets easier. People are spreading out in the bigger and flatter area up there. Be sure to check out the different viewing spots and platforms. Careful if you're afraid of heights though and hold onto to your hats...it's windy at times. The views are very rewarding. The cliffs and the formations amazing. Worth the - even though short - walk up here. You could continue your walk on the coastline up here further east. But calculate your time well - especially if your car is still in town. All in all a great visit to Etretat. The town itself is the typical tourist fare. But the cliffs are worth several hours of drive. And: there are fascinating bunkers and war memorials around as well. Very interesting history lesson.

Spectacular views to be enjoyed. And the scope & detail continue to change depending on where you…read moreare on the beach from one end to the other as well as the height. You can choose to climb above the spirals where the views, as beautiful as they are, actually don't compare to the opposite's end on the cliff- that was my favorite view! When it's sunny, they appear as white but when the sun starts to set behind them they are dark & the detail again makes them seem to transform right before your eyes. The town too is an excellent example of Norman architecture. Very quaint. It's a resort town so it's pricier. If you are touring the region of Normandy while in France- defiantly make time for this beautiful seaside area.