Drive to Deauville and explore its beautiful beaches and famous racecourses.
Visiting Deauville
This is a commune whose pavements regularly echo with the click-clack of expensive heels. Since Napoleon's half-brother discovered it in 1861, hordes of Parisians descend on its golden beaches to soak in the sun and shop 'til they drop'. However, there's more than just sunbathing and shopping in Deauville. Spend a few days here, and discover more of the cultural highlights of this sunny spot.
What to see in Deauville
Deauville-La Touques Racecourse
Deauville is famous for its horseracing, so make sure you pay a visit to one of the historic racecourses.
The surrounding countryside to Deauville is France's main horse breeding area, so it's no surprise that it is home to a large racecourse. Deauville-La Touques was founded by Charles Auguste Louis Joseph, the same man who founded Deauville. Since 1861, it has hosted flat races for all four seasons, so regardless of when you visit Deauville, there is a good chance you can see a race.
Villa Strassburger
The beautiful Villa Strassburger is open to the public throughout July and August.
Villa Strassburger, originally built in 1907 for Henri de Rothschild, it was later bought by Ralph Beaver Strassburger. After his death, his son donated it to Deauville in 1980. It is open to the public in July and August, and is a fascinating insight into the luxurious life of Deauville's rich and famous. The house itself was inspired by the rural farmhouses in Normandy, a striking juxtaposition against the chic Deauville.
Parc des Enclos Calouste Gulbenkian
Deauville is famous for its public gardens and green spaces, and none are more beautiful than Parc des Enclos Calouste Gulbenkian. Originally it was privately owned by the businessman Calouste Gulbenkian, and like Villa Strassburger, his son donated it to the city of Deauville. The garden was his sanctuary, where he would go to escape the pressures of his work life. It is a calm, serene outdoor space where you can discover new exotic plants away from the bustling city.
Where to eat in Deauville
Les Vapeurs
Like much of Deauville, Les Vapeurs is a historic part of the city. Since 1927 it has been serving fresh seafood, across from the seafood market. This means that the mussels and haddock are straight from sea to plate. If you aren't a fan of seafood, they also serve classic French brasserie style food too.
Where to drink in Deauville
One of the most luxurious hotels in Deauville, Hotel Barrière Le Normandy has had some famous guests.
The Normandy Bar, Hotel Barrière Le Normandy
As Deauville is so well known for its glamour, famous visitors, and stunning buildings it's only right that you treat yourself to a drink at The Normandy Bar, at one of Deauville's grandest hotels, Hotel Barrière Le Normandy. The hotel was built in 1912 and has hosted Winston Churchill and Coco Chanel, amongst other glamorous stars.
Where to stay in Deauville
Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg
Continuing the theme of seaside glamour, Le Grand Hôtel Cabourg was a favourite of writer Marcel Proust. Built in 1907, not only is the hotel a beautiful call back to the city's past, but it also boasts a private beach, golf facilities, a gourmet sea-facing restaurant and exquisite rooms and suites.
Weather in Deauville
It can get quite warm in Deauville, with highs in August of 19°C and the rest of the summer is a similar temperature. Winter is obviously cooler, at about 6°C. Rainfall is really low in the summer and in the colder months it picks up, with 66ml in October.
Getting there and around
It's just under three hours to get from our Calais terminal to Deauville. This does include toll roads, so be sure to have Euros accessible for these. Follow the A16 and A29 to Hornfleur, then follow D79, D288 and D278 to Deauville.
There are plenty of spots to park in Deauville, but expect parking spots near the seafront to get busier- especially on a sunny day.
Does the idea of vintage French glamour sound appealing? Then a trip to the beautiful Deauville will be perfect. Make sure you book your tickets with us early, so you get the best price.