Trouville Beach
About Trouville Beach
A 1,200-meter stretch of fine sand on the Côte Fleurie that earned the nickname "Queen of Beaches" in 19th-century France. Discovered by painter Charles Mozin in 1825, Trouville became one of France's first coastal resorts, attracting Parisian high society and artists including Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin, who painted numerous works here. The 900-meter wooden boardwalk, built in 1867, was the first on the Normandy coast and remains lined with elegant villas from the Second Empire era (1860-1880). Unlike neighboring Deauville, Trouville has preserved its original 19th-century seafront character. Visitors can stroll the historic promenade, relax on the beach, or explore the charming fishing port nearby. Best visited during summer months, though the beach retains its appeal year-round for walks and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Interesting Facts
When Claude Monet painted 'The Beach at Trouville' in 1870, he worked so quickly outdoors that grains of sand became embedded in the wet paint. Today, microscopic analysis of his paintings at the National Gallery in London reveals these sand particles, proving the works were created en plein air on this very beach.
Eugene Boudin, often called the 'King of Skies,' painted over 300 beach scenes at Trouville between 1862 and 1895. His rapid outdoor technique of capturing vacationing Parisians in changing coastal light directly inspired the Impressionist movement and influenced young Monet's first outdoor paintings.
The Hotel des Roches Noires, built in 1866 overlooking the beach, hosted writer Marcel Proust for summers from 1880 to 1915. His experiences here inspired passages in 'In Search of Lost Time.' Author Marguerite Duras later lived in the same building, and Claude Monet immortalized it in one of his paintings.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Promenade des Planches, 14360 Trouville-sur-Mer, France
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