Etretat and its cliffs: an unforgettable road trip in a van or motorhome

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Etretat, with its chalk cliffs, natural arches and maritime history. A practical guide to exploring this Norman gem at your own pace.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 10 September 2026

Just two hours from Paris, Etretat awaits with its spectacular cliffs, pebble beaches and invigorating sea air. In a van or motorhome, you can explore this classic French destination on your own schedule, without worrying about timetables. Here are the must-see spots for a road trip that’s as practical as it is poetic.

The cliffs of Etretat

The symbol of the region, these white chalk cliffs offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. The Aiguille Creuse, Porte d'Aval and Porte d'Amont are the stars of the site, accessible via marked trails.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Grass parking with water and showers, 3 km from Etretat. Bus line 13 (10 min) or walk. › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 4 private pitches in the countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 7 km from Etretat, absolute peace. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking with toilets and fresh water, 5 min from the cliffs. Sheltered table. › Camping Abijune Campsite ★ 4.3 4-star campsite in greenery, grass pitches. 4 km from the cliffs, modern facilities. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid area (14€/night) with water and waste disposal, 1.5 km from the cliffs. 20 min walk to the centre. ›

The Aiguille Creuse

This 70-metre-high natural arch is one of the most photographed spots in Normandy. Its name comes from its hollow shape, visible from the sea or hiking trails.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Grass parking near Etretat with water and showers. Bus access (10 min) or walk (49 min). › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 4 private pitches in the countryside, 7 km away. Electricity and waste disposal, absolute peace. › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 Family campsite 5 km away with heated pool. Spacious pitches and new facilities. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking in Benouville, 38 min walk. Toilets and fresh water, sheltered table. › Camping municipla d'Etretat Campsite ★ 3.9 Municipal campsite 19 min walk from the centre. 70 shaded pitches, facilities. ›

The Porte d'Aval

This imposing 85-metre-high chalk arch separates the sea from the mainland. A spectacular viewpoint awaits you from the top of the cliffs.

Where to sleep nearby

La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 4 private pitches in open countryside, electricity and waste disposal (12€/night), 7 min drive away. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking in Benouville, 5 min from the cliffs, water and toilets (38 min walk). › Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Grass parking near an inn, showers and bus to Etretat (49 min walk). › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 Family campsite with heated pool, spacious pitches (5 min drive). › Camping municipla d'Etretat Campsite ★ 3.9 Shaded municipal campsite, close to the centre and cliffs (19 min walk). ›

The Etretat Gardens

Created by a famous actress in the 19th century, this landscaped garden blends nature and art with its winding paths and sea views. A peaceful spot for a break between hikes.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Grass parking 3 km from Etretat, water and showers on site. Bus access (line 13) or walk (40 min). › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 4 private pitches in open countryside, electricity and waste disposal. 6 km from Etretat (6 min drive). › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Quiet communal parking in Benouville, toilets and fresh water. 42 min walk from the cliffs. › Camping Abijune Campsite ★ 4.3 4-star campsite in greenery, grass pitches and modern facilities. 34 min walk from the cliffs. › Motorhome area in Étretat Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Paid area 1.5 km from the cliffs, water and waste disposal included. 12 min walk to the centre. ›

Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Chapel

Perched on the heights of Etretat, this 19th-century chapel offers a stunning view of the sea and cliffs. Its Gothic architecture and location make it a charming and photogenic place.

Where to sleep nearby

Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Inn with grass parking, water and showers. Access to Etretat by bus (10 min) or walk (49 min). › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 4 private pitches in open countryside, electricity and waste disposal. Absolute peace, 7 km from Etretat. › Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Quiet communal parking in Benouville, water and toilets. 38 min walk from the chapel. › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 Family campsite with heated pool. Spacious pitches 5 km from Etretat. › Camping municipla d'Etretat Campsite ★ 3.9 Shaded municipal campsite, close to the centre. Decent facilities, 19 min walk. ›

The Nungesser and Coli Museum

Dedicated to aviators Charles Nungesser and François Coli, this museum recounts their attempt to cross the Atlantic in 1927. A dive into aviation history in an intimate setting.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking toilets GR trail start Bénouville Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking 38 min walk, sea and cliff views. Toilets, fresh water and sheltered table. › Rôtisserie des Falaises Campsite ★ 4.6 Quiet campsite 49 min walk, inn on site. Bus or walk to Etretat. › La Clef des Champs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 Area at 12€/night, 7 km from Etretat. 4 private pitches in open countryside. › Camping l'Aiguille Creuse Campsite ★ 4.2 4-star campsite 5 km away, indoor pool. Spacious pitches and new facilities. › Camping municipla d'Etretat Campsite ★ 3.9 Municipal campsite 19 min walk, 70 shaded pitches. Close to centre and cliffs. ›

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