Overlooking the famous cliffs of Étretat, the Jardins de la Ville will surprise you with their rounded landscapes, enlivened by contemporary works of art. We were enchanted by the poetry of these atypical gardens and by the superb view of the coast.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the gardens of Étretat in Normandy.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to the Gardens of Étretat worthwhile?
Absolutely! A “Jardin Remarquable”, the site unfurls 7 universes that sublimate Normandy’s natural treasures, blending the curves of plant life with intriguing works of art. The gardens also offered a breathtaking panorama of the white cliffs of Étretat, the most famous viewpoint on this marvel of the Côte d’Albâtre!
Let yourself be carried away by the magic of the place! This is one of the best activities in Étretat!
What you can see
A breathtaking view of the cliffs of Étretat
Nestled high above the town, the gardens offer an extraordinary view of Étretat’s famous cliffs. We were blown away!
Round gardens
We enjoyed contemplating the 7 gardens, which feature surprisingly round and curved hedges and bushes. Stroll among the green balls and whirlpools winding their way to the sea!
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Terraces hemmed with greenery
Built in terraces, the garden also plays with the relief from top to bottom, reminding us of certain Asian landscapes.
A garden dedicated to emotions
We were transported by the magic of Jardin Émotions! Artist Samuel Salcedo’s “Raindrops”, 7 giant sculptures of faces representing human emotions, will challenge you.
La Villa La Roxelane
Admire the beautiful Villa La Roxelane, enthroned high above the garden. We were impressed by its typical Normandy architecture, a tangle of half-timbering, brick and stone.
Wooded alleys
We enjoyed walking in the shade of the trees lining the paths.
Sculptured bushes
Keep your eyes peeled along the way. Sculpted bushes adorn the groves!
Mysterious works of art
A key in a tree, faces emerging from stone or small figures atop red spikes. The garden is sure to confuse you! We were blown away by the creativity of the works of art that punctuate the gardens!
A historic plant collection
The site is home to a historic plant collection belonging to Madame Thébault, the French comic actress who founded the garden in the early 20th century. In particular, we saw some magnificent orchids!
WHERE TO STAY IN Étretat
Option 1: on the cliffs
We recommend..:
- Hotel Le Donjon Domaine Saint Clair with lots of charm – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Dormi House and its magnificent views – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: in the center
We recommend..:
- B&B Les Tilleuls Etretat, close to the sea and easy to reach – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Le Rayon Vert, facing the sea – see prices, photos and availability
Option 3: in the surrounding countryside
We recommend..:
- Hotel Les Pins de César, in a green setting – see prices, photos and availability
Gardens of Étretat on the Côte d’Albâtre: how to get there
Where to find the gardens
Étretat Gardens is in Normandy on the Côte d’Albâtre.
- In the town ofÉtretat
- On the Falaise d’Amont
- Driving time from Rouen: 1h15
- Driving time from Caen: 1h35
- Driving time from Evreux: 1h55
Access by car and parking
Les Jardins d’Étretat are located high above the town, in the protected natural area of the Falaise d’Amont. It is therefore not possible to get there by car. To mount, you have 3 options:
- Take the tourist train in summer.
- Take the footpath that starts at the end of the seafront (with steep steps).
- Walk along the road via rue Jules Gerbeau and then avenue Damilaville (no stairs, steep but less than the footpath).
To park your vehicle, you’ll find parking lots further down town:
- Étretat beach / Place de la Mairie / Place de Gaulle / Place de la gare 15 min walk from Jardins d’Étretat.
- Grand Val parking lot a 20-minute walk away.
- Criquetot l’Esneval’s large free parking lot is a 30-minute walk away.
Visiting difficulties
As the gardens are located in the hills above Étretat, you’ll have to climb a steep path to reach them. Much of the garden itself is also sloping. Bring good shoes and patience. It’s worth the effort!
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities in Normandy
- Helicopter flight over the cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre
- Book your time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Take a microlight flight over Mont-Saint-Michel
- Climb the Via Ferrata in Switzerland Normandy
Visit the Gardens of Étretat: useful tips
Schedules and prices
The gardens are closed from late December to mid-February. Here are the timetables:
- February 17 to March 31, Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 1 to July 12 – daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- July 13 to August 25 – daily, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- August 26 to November 3 – daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- November 4 to December 15 – Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Prices are as follows:
- Full price: €12.50
- Teenager 15-17: €10
- Children 8-14 and PRM: €7.50
- Children 0-7: free
Book your ticket now. More details on prices and opening times on the official website here.
How long
Allow 1 hour to visit the gardens and admire the view!
Best moment
In summer, the gardens attract many visitors. If you’re traveling at this time of year, it’s best to come in the morning. Outside the summer period, visitor numbers will be lower. In winter, both the garden and the city are not without charm! Discover our advice on the subject.
Direction of visit
There is no set direction for visiting the site. We recommend you start with the Avatar Garden, near the entrance and the beautiful Villa La Roxelane. Dive deeper into the site’s creativity with the swirling Impression Garden, followed by the Emotions Garden, one of the most beautiful! Stroll along alleys lined with round bushes and admire the surprising “Gouttes de pluie” (raindrops), faces of varying emotions by sculptor Samuel Salcedo. Then head to the Jardin d’Aval et d’Amont or relax in the Jardin Zen. Finish your visit in style with a view of the bay and the cliffs!
Eating out
The gardens are close to the city center, with many restaurants in the vicinity. Discover our selection of the best restaurants in Étretat.
Hotels
You’re in Étretat, which offers a great choice of hotels! Here’s our article on the town’s best hotels. We particularly liked it:
- The charming Hôtel Le Donjon – Domaine Saint Clair and its warm, inspired decor! See availability.
- The B&B Castel De La Terrasse for its cosy calm and sea view! Book a room now!
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Etretat
- What to do in Étretat
- Where to stay in Étretat
- Where to eat in Étretat
- The gardens of Étretat – coming soon
- The beach of Étretat – coming soon
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
