Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive

The Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive is a 205km route that starts in Abbeville, France and ends in Etretat, France. It is best experienced during the summer months when the weather is warm and the landscapes are breathtaking. Along the way, you can take in the sights of Le Crotoy and Dieppe, two charming towns that have a lot to offer. You can expect to find beautiful beaches, stunning views, and plenty of activities to do. The roads along the route are mostly in good condition, although some are quite narrow. This scenic drive is a great way to make memories and take in the beauty of the French countryside. It is suitable for all drivers and can be completed in one day. However, it is a high budget road trip, so be prepared to spend a bit more than usual.

Abbeville is a charming French town located in the Somme department in the Hauts-de-France region and is the starting point of the Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive. Abbeville is known for its historical and cultural heritage, with many interesting sights to explore. The most interesting is the Church of St. Vulfran, a Gothic building from the 13th century, and the Town Hall, a majestic building from the 17th century. Another popular attraction is the Abbeville Castle, where you can admire the beautiful gardens, the moat and the impressive keep. The town is also known for its traditional markets, where you can buy fresh local produce. For travelers coming by air, the closest international airport is located in Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). From the airport, car rentals are available to start the Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive. The drive will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes, including the beautiful coastline of the Somme estuary. You can explore traditional fishing villages, as well as stunning cliffs and peaceful beaches. The drive takes you along the coastline of the Alabaster Coast, with its picturesque views and many historic sites. Abbeville is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive. With its rich history and cultural heritage, there is plenty to explore and discover. Start your journey from Abbeville and enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful French town.

Welcome to a wonderful road trip stage starting in Abbeville, France, and ending in Le Crotoy, a mere 23 km away. The drive will take less than an hour, and you'll be rewarded with a stunning glimpse of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and quaint villages. Starting in Abbeville, take a moment to admire the historic architecture of the city and its beautiful cathedral. Then, take a drive along the coast and enjoy the views of the Somme Estuary. As you make your way to Le Crotoy, make sure to stop at the charming fishing villages of Quend-Plage-les-Pins and Fort-Mahon-Plage. Le Crotoy is a charming seaside resort with a majestic beach and plenty of activities to enjoy. The town also boasts a vibrant nightlife and some of the best seafood restaurants in the region. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't forget to plan your stops, and enjoy your journey!

Are you looking for an unforgettable road trip experience? Then look no further! Embark on a journey from Le Crotoy to Dieppe, a distance of 88 km and a drive time of fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you'll experience some of the most breathtaking views in France, as well as historical sites, narrow sections of road, and stunning scenery. You'll be able to take in the sights of Le Crotoy, a quaint fishing village, before heading to the picturesque town of Neufchâtel-en-Bray. Once there, you can visit the old castle and churches, or explore the nearby woodland. From there, it's a short drive to Dieppe, where you can visit the Dieppe Castle, the Château-Musée de Dieppe, and the Church of St. Jacques. Be sure to take in the beauty of the cliffs and beach before you leave! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

Embark on a road trip from Dieppe to Etretat and discover the picturesque coast of Normandy. This 95 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will provide you with a unique experience. As you drive, you will be able to admire the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. In some sections, the road is narrow, so please drive carefully. Along the way, you will pass through Fecamp and Etretat, two of the most beautiful towns of Normandy. In Fecamp, you will find the Benedictine Palace, a beautiful abbey and the famous Fishermen's Chapel. In Etretat, you can explore the cliffs and the beach, and take a stroll along the boardwalk. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Etretat is a picture-perfect coastal town on the Alabaster Coast of Normandy, France. It is the perfect ending point of the Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive, a road trip along the coast from Dieppe to Etretat. The town is known for its stunning white chalk cliffs and natural arches, with dramatic views of the English Channel. The most iconic view is from the top of the cliffs, where you can take in the beauty of the town and its dramatic coastline. The beach is also a popular spot for a relaxing stroll or to take in the views. Etretat also has a charming old town with restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as a few museums and galleries. The town is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the region and is a great place to sample the local cuisine. The nearby town of Fecamp is also worth a visit, with its traditional fishing village and impressive Benedictine monastery. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Rouen Airport (URO), located a short drive from Etretat. From here, you can easily continue on to Etretat and complete your Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive. Whether you are looking for stunning views, delicious seafood or a relaxing stroll, Etretat is the perfect ending point for your Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive.

Before you set off

Embark on the captivating Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive, a journey that spans approximately 205 kilometers along the northern coastline of Normandy, France, from Abbeville to the iconic cliffs at Etretat. This enchanting route weaves through a tapestry of lush countryside, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking natural wonders, offering a quintessential French Road Trip experience that's particularly magical during the warm summer months when the region's beauty is in full bloom.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Begin your adventure in the historic town of Abbeville, with its intricate gothic architecture and serene canals.
• Proceed to the picturesque fishing village of Le Crotoy, known for its sandy beaches and stunning sunsets over the Bay of Somme.
• As you press on, make a stop in Dieppe, a resilient port city with a rich nautical heritage, featuring a 15th-century castle and vibrant markets.
• Your journey culminates at the awe-inspiring cliffs of Etretat, an artist's muse that has been immortalized in the paintings of Claude Monet and other Impressionists.

Throughout this Road Trip, you'll be treated to dramatic coastal panoramas, including the famous white chalk cliffs that give the Alabaster Coast its name.

Best Time to Go:

The summer season is the prime time to embark on this Scenic Drive when mild temperatures and sunny skies provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration and leisurely enjoyment of the region's natural gifts.

Potential Risks:

While the journey is picturesque, drivers should be aware of some narrow and winding sections of the route that require careful navigation. Exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially on cliffside Roads, to ensure a safe and pleasant Trip.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Alabaster Coast is part of the larger Côte d'Albâtre, which is known for its stunning white cliffs made of chalk, similar to the famous White Cliffs of Dover across the English Channel.
• The drive is suitable for Roadtrippers of various skill levels, with well-maintained Roads offering a comfortable driving experience.
• Ideally, this Trip can be completed within a day, but it's worth taking your time to fully appreciate the area's attractions.
• While the Road Trip is on the higher end of the budget spectrum, it's a worthwhile investment for the rich cultural and visual delights you'll encounter.

A good choice for:

The Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive is an unforgettable sojourn along one of France's most iconic shorelines. Meticulous planning and a willingness to indulge in the region's offerings will reward Roadtrippers with a tapestry of memorable experiences, from the charm of coastal villages to the grandeur of natural sea arches and picturesque landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this journey promises to leave you with a lasting impression of Normandy's coastal splendor.