The hype
Guests are blown away by the view and apartment size but shocked by the dilapidated state of the building's hallway and exterior.
Les Roches Blanches
$180-280/ nuit
Réservez si You want the absolute best sea view in Étretat and don't mind a gritty entrance or self-service logistics.
Pourquoi les gens l'adorent
- Unbeatable direct views of the cliffs and sunset from your private terrace
- Massive 70m² footprint (huge for France)
- Right on the 'Front de Mer' promenade—you can't get closer to the water
En bref : A stunning, renovated apartment trapped inside a building that one guest described as 'deplorable' and potentially unsafe-looking.
Évalué par @LuxuryTravel: I honestly didn't want to leave. Visiting in October was the best decision—the light is softer, the crowds are gone, and swimming in that infinity pool overlooking the Calanques felt like a dream. If you want a romantic recharge, this is the spot.
Ce que les clients qui ont séjourné ici ont dit
Reality check
You pay for the view, not the building maintenance. The entrance feels sketchy, but the apartment inside is modern and clean.
- You are an independent traveler who prefers space over service
- You want to wake up to the sound of waves
- You can handle carrying your own bags up stairs
Propreté et entretien
8.1
- Housekeeping: Self-catering style. No daily maid service. You arrive to a clean room, but you maintain it.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally reported as clean and modern within the apartment, despite the building's age.
- Maintenance: Apartment is renovated/modern. Building common areas (stairs, hall) are peeling and worn.
- Linens & towels: Standard rental quality—clean but not luxury thread count.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea air if windows are open; no specific complaints of mustiness in the apartment.
Sleepability™
8SILENCIEUX
0-4BRUYANT
4-7.5MODÉRÉ
7.5-10SILENCIEUX
- Seagulls in the morning
- Daytime tourist crowds on the promenade
Avant de réserver
Bon à savoir
- Check-in is self-service (key box); you need the code before arrival.
- The kitchen is fully equipped, so buy wine and cheese for a private sunset dinner.
- Luggage storage is not available before check-in or after check-out.
Quoi emporter
- Earplugs (for seagulls, not cars)
- Grocery bags (closest market is a short walk)
- Compact luggage (stairs are narrow)
Génie des chambres
Meilleurs choix
- The 'Sea View Apartment' (often the only option) — request the top floor if multiple are available for best privacy.
Chambres à éviter
- Any unit not explicitly labeled 'Sea View' (though most seem to have it).
Génie de demande de chambre – copier & coller
“I am booking the Sea View Apartment specifically for the sunset view. Please confirm this unit faces the ocean and not the street.”
FAQ et astuces cachées
Tout ce que vous voulez vraiment savoir avant de réserver.
Is there a pool?
No. Do not confuse this with the luxury 'Les Roches Blanches' hotel in Cassis.
Is breakfast included?
No, but you can eat at the restaurant downstairs (not recommended) or cook in your kitchen.
Where do I park?
Public parking at 'Parking du Grand Val' (10-15 min walk). It's cheaper than street parking.
Is there air conditioning?
Rarely needed in Normandy, but check listing specifics. Usually, sea breeze is sufficient.
Can I bring my dog?
Policies vary by booking platform, but generally pets are NOT allowed in this specific apartment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the living room often has a sofa bed, but be careful with the stairs.
Conseils d'initiés
- ✨
The restaurant downstairs has a 'tourist trap' reputation (2.2 stars); walk 5 minutes to 'Le Clos Lupin' instead.
- ✨
Sunset from your private window is better than from the crowded beach below.
- ✨
The 'deplorable' building comment in reviews is real—brace yourself for a gritty hallway.
5 choses à savoir avant de partir
💡The building exterior looks like it might be abandoned from certain angles.
💡The bathroom in the restaurant downstairs is reportedly 'filthy', but the apartment bathroom is fine.
💡You are literally 60 meters from the water—closer than almost any other hotel.
💡The 'Front de Mer' address means you can't drive up to the door easily during peak tourist hours.
💡There is no reception desk; if you lose your key code, you're stuck.
Guide local
Carte
Découvrez où se situe Les Roches Blanches et ce qu'il y a à proximité.