Danger at Étretat's Iconic Cliffs: Tourist Hotspot Now Off-Limits for Safety
Well-frequented selfie hotspot for travelers
The eye-catching chalk cliffs of Étretat, Normandy, are a popular selfie magnet for millions of tourists every year. But danger lurks beneath the picturesque facade. Authorities are taking action.
Tourists find an adrenaline rush in capturing spectacular photos, even risking their lives in the process. The town of Étretat has imposed strict measures to ensure the safety of the thrill-seekers, citing the progressive erosion of the coast and the constant risk of collapsing rocks as the reason for these new rules.
Now, access is restricted to prevent fatal accidents and rockfalls. Venturing through the famous rock arches beneath the towering peaks of the cliffs is forbidden. Most parts of the beaches are off-limits too, with only the beach along the promenade in Étretet being exempt. Access to three notable rock formations is also prohibited.
Steep Penalties for rule-breakers
The alluring cliffs around Étretat attract close to 1.5 million visitors annually. Sadly, several fatal accidents have occurred when tourists get too close to the edge for selfies or photos.
In compliance with the restrictions, visitors can now approach the edge of the cliffs only up to five meters. It's important to note that the municipality holds no responsibility for accidents that occur due to ignored regulations or obstruction of barriers. Violators face a minimum fine of €35. Additionally, the fire department is planning to charge for rescue operations in the future, except in extreme cases, if people require assistance from the cliffs.
The fire department had previously issued a warning in 2022 about the hazards posed by both the top and base of the cliffs. Tourists have grown more reckless taking photos on the rocks, according to reports at the time.
Source: ntv.de, sba/dpa
- France
- Tourism Industry
Things to Remember as a Visitor:
- Be cautious around cliff edges, especially when children are present, as some areas have steep drops without railings.
- Avoid risky behavior, such as leaning over the edge.
- Ensure children are supervised at all times.
- Prepare for potential access restrictions due to safety concerns.
For the latest information on fines or penalties for violating these safety measures, your best bet would be to consult local authorities or official tourism websites.
The Community policy in Étretat now includes stringent measures to maintain visitor safety during vocational training programs emphasizing responsible lifestyle choices while traveling, following the regular occurrence of fatal accidents at the iconic chalk cliffs. Violators of these safety regulations may face steep penalties, including fines and charges for rescue operations.
