Nestled just outside of Deauville in the Normandy region is the picturesque town of Trouville. An enchanting getaway for a day or weekend in France, it's conveniently located and offers a blend of sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and relaxation. Here are three compelling reasons to explore Trouville-sur-Mer!
In this article, I'll guide you through the highlights of this seaside resort: how to reach it, activities and places to visit, and the top hotel recommendations in Trouville. If you have any questions or would like to share your personal experiences about this destination, please drop a comment below!
Where Can You Find Trouville?
Trouville is a renowned seaside resort in the Normandy region, situated less than 62 miles (approximately 100 km) from Rouen and adjacent to Deauville, the host of a celebrated film festival.
Here's the location of the town on the map:
Check out Trouville's weather forecast here.
Trouville: A Gem from the Golden Age of Sea Bathing
Once a fishing village during the Middle Ages, Trouville remained a quaint fishing port until the 18th century. However, it was during the 19th century that Parisians began to relish the joys of "sea bathing."
Over time, Trouville transformed into a beloved seaside resort. Parisians flocked to its shores to savor the pristine beaches and the therapeutic effects of the coastline. Its allure was heightened by visits from renowned painters and writers like Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin, Alphonse Karr, Gustave Flaubert, Marcel Proust, and even Alexandre Dumas, who were drawn to its untouched, remote charm.
Gradually, the town expanded. 1863 saw the inauguration of the railway station to ease accessibility, and by 1890, a promenade jetty was erected to better welcome British visitors. Trouville was promoted as being "only 4 hours from Paris" and possessing "the most beautiful beach in the world." I'll let you form your own judgment ;)
Exploring Trouville
To access the town center, one must traverse the Touques River, which empties into the English Channel, acting as a divider between Deauville and Trouville.
There are several methods to cross:
- Use the bridge at the village entrance (Pont des Belges).
- If the waters are high, you can opt for the ferry—a petite boat that sails across the river for about $1.75 (or £1.30). It boasts the title of France's briefest crossing—covering 656 feet in just 3 minutes! Yet, it's undeniably charming.
- When the tide ebbs, a footbridge is accessible at roughly $0.60 (or £0.45), and $1.75 (or £1.30) for strollers and bikes. As you traverse, you might spot clam diggers making the most of the low tide to scavenge for shellfish!
The Port of Trouville
Wandering by the marina or along the Touques River
is a genuine treat.
Trouville still shelters around thirty trawlers. Even though it's a modest fleet, it retains that intimate port ambiance that's close to my heart. At low tide, the riverbed unveils itself, inviting seagulls to feast on the mud as the fishing vessels await the next high tide.
Situated right on the waterfront is a bustling fish market where you can not only purchase fresh seafood but also indulge in a seafood platter, freshly prepared for immediate enjoyment alongside a glass of crisp white wine. The Halle aux Poissons typically operates from 9am to 7pm, and from 10am to 7pm on Mondays. (It's worth noting that this isn't a restaurant, so evening dining isn't available.) The building is historically significant and is listed.
The Beaches and Cabins of Trouville
The town boasts a pristine sandy beach, flanked by stunning properties and is generally impeccably maintained. While not as expansive as Deauville's beach, it still features its iconic boardwalks. For those seeking a more tranquil spot, a short stroll past the Club Nautique de Trouville reveals a secondary coastline, typically less populated during the summer months.
This beach is framed by a jetty that signifies the gateway to the harbors of both Deauville and Trouville.
A defining feature on the Trouville side is the "red lighthouse", which stands opposite Deauville's green lighthouse.
Interestingly, both the red and green lighthouses stand at the same height (36 feet), but the red one shines brighter. This might be attributed to its more recent construction after it was demolished during World War II.
In the summer, "TIRALO" boats are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can also partake in the joy of swimming. Moreover, umbrellas can berented between April and September at the Etablissement de la Plage et de la Mer (located on Les Planches) from 10am to 6pm (extending to 7pm in July and August).
Right at this spot, you also have the option to rent cabins. The majestic structure you see in the backdrop is a former palace constructed in 1910, during the heyday of "sea bathing." Pioneering for its time, it was equipped with an elevator and private bathrooms for each room – the pinnacle of luxury back then! Many other establishments sprouted in the town to cater to affluent tourists seeking the seaside experience, including the Hôtel de Paris (1840) and the Hôtel des Roches Noires (1866).
Today, the Trouville Palace has been partitioned into several plush apartments, some of which are available for weekend rentals. It's the perfect spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
From Trouville, you have the opportunity to embark on a Gulfstream II boat adventure. Choose between a coastal exploration that lasts about half an hour or a voyage across to Le Havre. You can either enjoy the standard 30-minute journey or customize your own trip by booking in advance.
The Casino of Trouville
Established in 1847, the town's iconic casino emerged just as Trouville began to magnetize a well-heeled crowd. Back in its early days, it wasn't merely a gambling hub; it was a haven of recreation in every sense. Patrons would gather here for billiards, card games, other board games, and even grand balls.
Today, it houses a diverse range of slot machines and table games, including blackjack, English roulette, and weekend poker sessions. The casino also boasts a dining establishment, La Villatara, which typically comes alive with live musical performances on Saturday nights.
Discovering Trouville
Taking a leisurely stroll through Trouville is highly recommended. The town is dripping with charm and is brimming with delightful surprises. Built partially on elevated terrain, the town is interspersed with numerous staircases that lead you from one tier to another, offering enchanting vistas at every turn.
For those eager to traverse the streets, walking is always a classic choice. However, if you prefer to pedal your way around, consider renting a bike. I'd recommend "Jean connaît un rayon" in Deauville, which offers electric bikes and even provides options like child seats or dog baskets for those accompanied by family or furry friends.
Alternatively, you might fancy a ride on the Rosalie, a pedal-powered vehicle that has become a signature attraction of the locale!
If you happen to understand French, consider joining a guided bike tour, especially popular on Saturdays. Spanning about 2.5 hours, this tour covers the key sights of both Trouville and Deauville. It's a relaxed journey, with gentle terrains and periodic stops for enlightening commentary.
While in Trouville, here are some noteworthy attractions:
- The Villa Montebello Museum: This fine arts museum is nestled in a magnificent 19th-century villa built in 1865. Its exhibits center around the sea, sea bathing, and the evolution of tourism on the Côte Fleurie. While the museum offers a concise visit (about 1 hour), it's worth a stop if the theme intrigues you.
- The former Hôtel des Roches Noires: This iconic structure, evident from the gardens of Villa Montebello, was once a grand hotel established in 1866. Among its esteemed guests were literary legends Marcel Proust and Marguerite Duras. Duras was so enchanted that she acquired an apartment there. While the building is now private residences and not open for tours, its exterior and history remain a draw.
- The Promenade de Savignac: Also known as Les Planches de Trouville, it offers a serene seafront stroll where you can appreciate the artwork of the renowned poster artist, Savignac. Unique blue benches are interspersed, commemorating famous personalities who graced the resort in the past.
For those keen on panoramic views, two distinctive towers were erected in Deauville's port district in 2020, identifiable by their striking black-and-white stripes. One of these towers boasts a public belvedere. Either climb the 155 steps or take the elevator to the summit for a breathtaking vista of the surroundings. There's a nominal fee to access the viewpoint, with a ticket machine conveniently located at the base. It opens at 9 a.m., with closing times varying by season (8 p.m. in spring, 9 p.m. in summer, and 5 p.m. starting October).
However, a word of caution: it's wise to confirm if the ticketing system is operational. There have been instances where the entrance turnstile malfunctions, and with no staff present, it can be a tad inconvenient.
The Trouville Thalasso Spa
Consider a visit to the Cures Marines thalassotherapy center, a proud member of the Accor-owned Thalassa Sea & Spa group.
Not only can you book stays, but you also have the option for individual treatments such as massages, facials, and more.
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The Trouville Thalasso Spa
Consider a visit to the Cures Marines thalassotherapy center, a proud member of the Accor-owned Thalassa Sea & Spa group.
Not only can you book stays, but you also have the option for individual treatments such as massages, facials, and more.
Exploring Normandy
Naturally, Trouville serves as an ideal starting point for adventures along the Normandy coast. Whether you're drawn to the allure of nearby Deauville or the charm of places like Honfleur, Houlgate, or Cabourg, there's much to explore.
How to Get to Trouville?
You can easily drive in and find parking close to the train station or opt for one of the nearby paid parking spaces, such as the Parking Indigo Trouville-Sur-Mer Foch.
Alternatively, consider taking the train. The quaint "Trouville-Deauville" station serves both towns. Upon exiting, you're faced with a simple choice: for Deauville, turn left; for Trouville, turn right. As you decide, the distant calls of seagulls and the gentle clinking of boat masts can be heard.
Currently, the train journey from Paris Saint-Lazare takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, 45 minutes from Cabourg, and 40 minutes from Lisieux.
Seeking Accommodations in Trouville? Top Hotel Recommendations
When it comes to lodgings, here are a few top-notch hotels to consider:
- The Spa Hotel (Cures Marines) offers an indulgent escape.
- If you're seeking value without compromising on quality, the Hôtel des 2 Villas is a solid choice. It's conveniently located within walking distance from the station and a mere 2-minute stroll from the oceanfront.
- For budget-conscious travelers, the Hotel Le Trouville (2 stars) is centrally located, just 2 minutes from the sea.
Trouville boasts a vast array of rental apartments and bed & breakfast options. You can explore a myriad of
