Camping by the sea in the Normandy

Whether on the Alabasta Coast Côte dAlbâtre, the Côte Fleurie or the Pearl Coast, camping by the sea in Normandy guarantees fun in the water. Families feel particularly at home on the gently sloping beach of Trouville-sur-Mer, while water sports enthusiasts are drawn to the popular surfing spot of Étretat north of Le Havre. Sights such as the famous rocky island of Mont-Saint-Michel are among the favourite excursion destinations.

Top tips

• The fascinating Normandy coast attracts holidaymakers and locals alike when the weather is fine - after all, the popular seaside resort of Dieppe can be reached by train from the French capital in just two hours. Its proximity to Paris is certainly one of the reasons why Dieppe is one of the country's best-known seaside resorts. The fine pebble beach is popular with water sports enthusiasts and swimmers.
• Cabourg's particularly child-friendly coastline has been awarded the Family Plus label. There are barrier-free access points lined with rubber mats on the 4 km long fine sandy beach, which guests with pushchairs are happy to use. The town is also well known among sailors who travel to a campsite by the sea in Normandy because of the excellent wind conditions.

Activities and excursions

Historic towns and numerous Blue Flag beaches make Normandy a dream destination for active holidaymakers and culture vultures.

From the campsite to the cultural highlights

Culture lovers will discover fascinating relics from the past while camping by the sea in Normandy. One of the most famous landmarks is the island of Le Mont-Saint-Michel, which rises 92 metres into the air in the middle of the Wadden Sea. Only a few dozen people live on this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its medieval abbey, among other things. A visit to the island can easily be combined with a sightseeing tour of the nearby town of Avranches. The colourful plant garden and the imposing Notre-Dame-des-Champs church are among the attractions. A trip to the provincial capital of Rouen, 60 kilometres from the coast, is also worthwhile. With its seven towers, the cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in France. During a window-shopping tour through the lively pedestrian zone, guests will pass enchanting half-timbered buildings and Renaissance town houses.

Actively explore the Norman coast

Nature lovers of all ages will get their money's worth on hikes along the northern French coast. There are numerous trails around the campsites in Normandy that invite you to explore the fascinating landscapes on foot. The 14-kilometre route along the bay of Sallenelles, for example, is well worth taking. Animal lovers in particular will be thrilled by the birdwatching amidst a rich variety of flora and fauna. For more demanding hikers, the 430 km coastal path between Carentan and the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel offers a welcome challenge. In addition to the picturesque natural scenery, you will also find typical little villages where time seems to have stood still. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can also discover the region on horseback on a guided riding tour.

Events

From the regatta to the multifaceted family festival, Normandy's events programme ranges from the regatta to the family festival.

July

• Tour des Ports de la Manche: Every year, sailing enthusiasts flock to Normandy for the legendary regatta across the most important harbours of the Manche department. More than 700 sailors from all over the world take part.
• Sorties de bain: The multi-faceted Sorties de bain family festival also takes place in Granville in July. This exciting street art festival features mystical magicians, theatre performances and clowns. The fairytale sessions are also popular with the youngest guests.

August

• American Film Festival: Cineastes gather at the American Film Festival in Deauville. With a bit of luck, you can meet international stars on the street. In addition to films worth seeing, theatre plays and photography can also be seen.