When sea bathing took France by storm at the end of the 19th century, the fishing village of Trouville developed into one of Normandy’s first seaside resorts. For those who find the English Channel too chilly, heated baths (and upscale hotel spas) provide a welcome alternative. The town’s architecture has changed very little since its inauguration, transporting visitors back in time to La Belle Époque. Popular activities include sampling traditional Normandy cuisine, participating in water sports, and following in the footsteps of the Impressionists, many of whom painted this stretch of coast. Tours to Trouville can be organized from Paris, as well as from towns in Normandy.
Trouville can easily be combined in a day with neighboring beauty spots Honfleur and Deauville.
It’s on Normandy’s “Flower Coast,” so named for the flowery meadows along the shore.
Charles Mozin, a Parisian painter, was credited with “founding” Trouville.
Gustave Flaubert, Marcel Proust, and Alexandre Dumas were some of the famous people who used to visit.
Trouville’s beach has just over half a mile (1 kilometer) of fine sand.
Trains from Paris to Deauville, the next town over, take just over two hours. By road, the drive from central Paris is roughly 130 miles (209 kilometers); traffic permitting, it takes around 2.5 hours to cover.
The best time to visit Trouville-sur-Mer is during the summer, with the tourist season running from May to September. Be aware that during the French school holidays (July and August), prices tend to climb steeply; reservations are recommended. Many people also visit in September to attend the American Film Festival in neighboring Deauville.
Trouville’s Casino Barrière Trouville isn’t just for trying your luck at poker. Built in 1847, the casino used to welcome anyone who was anyone, including artists, authors, and nobles. As well as the casino itself, the building houses a restaurant and a theater, whose acoustics are perfect for the wide variety of plays, dance show dinners, and operas performed here. Check the website for the full schedule of events.
