Cabourg Beach (Plage de Cabourg)
About Cabourg Beach (Plage de Cabourg)
A 4-kilometer fine sand beach on the Normandy coast, famous for its connection to Marcel Proust who spent summers here from 1907-1914 and immortalized it as 'Balbec' in his novel In Search of Lost Time. The beach features the Promenade Marcel Proust, Europe's longest pedestrian seaside boardwalk at 3.6 kilometers, lined with ornate Belle Époque villas built by wealthy Parisians in the late 19th century. The Grand Hôtel, where Proust stayed in room 414, overlooks the beach from its central position. Free public access year-round with lifeguard supervision during summer months. Popular for walking, swimming, and beach activities including volleyball, stand-up paddle, and kitesurfing.
Interesting Facts
Cabourg has a unique fan-shaped urban design created by architect Charles Duval in 1855, with all streets radiating outward from the Grand Hôtel and Casino at the center like spokes of a wheel. This distinctive layout means every major street offers a direct view toward the beach.
Marcel Proust spent approximately 500 nights at the Grand Hôtel between 1907 and 1914, always requesting the same room 414 on the fourth floor. He would often stay awake until dawn observing high society guests in the hotel's dining room, gathering material for his novels.
During the Belle Époque era, wealthy Parisians competed to build the most extravagant vacation villas along the beach, each trying to outdo their neighbors with architectural flourishes like turrets, bow windows, glazed tiles, and elaborate mosaics. This rivalry created the distinctive architectural character visible today.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Promenade Marcel Proust, 14390 Cabourg, France
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