Nearly every traveler is familiar with the French Riviera and its beautiful beaches. Of course, that means that you’re likely to be sharing them with countless others, particularly during the summer. But did you know there is another destination, miles along the country’s northern coast that offers golden sands and even attracts A-lister stars, yet it’s not jam-packed with people? Some refer to it as the “glamorous Cannes of the North.”
The seaside town of Deauville in Normandy is easy to reach from Paris, just a two-hour train ride from Paris Saint-Lazare to the Trouville-Deauville station, running about 10 times daily. It boasts over a mile of sandy beach while Les Planches, its famous wooden boardwalk dating to 1923, stretches along its entire length.
Star Appeal
Like Cannes on the French Riviera, Deauville also hosts a film festival, drawing a long list of Hollywood stars over the decades. Everyone from Clint Eastwood and Johnny Depp to Sharon Stone and George Clooney has been seen here during the Deauville American Film Festival, held annually for 10 days during the first half of September. In fact, as you stroll the picturesque promenade, you’ll see their names adorned on the hundreds of Art Deco-style beach huts (cabines).
Despite the magnificent Belle Époque villas and luxury vehicles like Aston Martin, Maserati, and Ferrari that indicate the level of wealth residents enjoy here, Deauville has a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it welcoming to visitors of all types.
Beach Relaxation & Activities
The beach is dotted with brightly colored umbrellas and deckchairs that can be rented for relaxing while enjoying the scene. Activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and horseback riding along the shoreline are all possible too. There’s also a saltwater Olympic-size swimming pool, over 20 beachfront shops and bars, and a tennis club.
Attractions Beyond the Shore
Horseracing is a big deal here, with two racecourses in town, including Deauville-la-Touques, built in 1864 near the town center. It stages races year-round and includes three playing fields known for hosting some of the world’s best polo players.
The opulent Casino Barrière Deauville is worth visiting even for those who don’t care to test their luck at the slots or card games. Standing on the site of Europe’s first casino, opened in 1864, it’s been along the seafront here since 1912. The highlight is the Italian-style theater, inspired by Versailles’ Petit Trianon, but it also hosts a bar and three restaurants.
History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the 1907 Villa Strassburger. A national historic monument, it’s typical of a late 19th-century Belle Époque villa. Visitors can step inside for a glimpse of life at the time, complete with original furnishings, paintings, and decor.
