A special New Year’s Eve in Normandy

Looking for a perfect New Year’s Eve getaway? Avoid over-crowded New Year’s Eve parties and try something a little different. Normandy offers plenty of alternatives to the stereotypical end of year bash, so read on if you’re after a new way to see in the new year!

All of the above information is subject to change

Deauville, trouville and Honfleur

Jump on-board on the Fair Play Time in Deauville’s marina, sip champagne and mingle with friends – who could want for a more perfect New Year’s Eve than a boat party? Enjoy the view of Deauville from the water before enjoying a spectacular view of the midnight fireworks.

Before the festivities begin, indulge in a spot of retail therapy in Deauville or enjoy a stroll in Trouville-sur-Mer on the other side of the Touques river. Looking for a last-minute accessory to complete your NYE outfit? You have a vast choice of luxury clothing stores in Deauville or in the nearby town of Honfleur at the Honfleur Normandy Outlet.

Feel free to also prolong the cruise theme at La Péniche, on Deauville marina, which offers diners a special NYE menu.  

The Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel

What better way to see in the New Year that in one of the most beautiful bays in the world? The nearby town of Granville, Normandy’s very own ‘Monaco of the North’, is one of the best places around the Mont-Saint-Michel to enjoy parties till dawn.

On the Mont-Saint-Michel itself, we recommend the Auberge Saint-Pierre with its cosy yet sophisticated decor. As you can imagine, toasting to the New Year in such a place comes at a premium, but if your room overlooks the bay, the view is totally worth the money!  

Moving a bit further away from the Mont-Saint-Michel you’ll find another stunning place worth considering for a NYE getaway, the Château de Chantore. Stay in the Mont-Saint-Michel suite for splendid views of the gardens with the Mont-Saint-Michel in the background. On Christmas Eve, the week’s festivities kick off with an atmospheric candlelit dinner.

A superb gîte on a stud farm

Picture a beautiful country cottage in a peaceful setting with wonderful farmland views in the middle of a stud farm. The self-catering Gîte du séchoir à lin close to Argentan in the Orne département is one of our favourite places to spend NYE and we’re not the only ones according to fabulous reviews. The loft, located above the old stables, accommodates up to 10 people. Contemporary style, a spa and sauna and a gas barbecue on the terrace all contribute to the charm of the place. A guest sums up her experience: “This cosy, spacious, convivial retreat is great for groups of friends or families. The jacuzzi® is a real hit!” During the festive season, a bottle of champagne and other snacks are offered to guests.

Take the plunge on New Year’s Day

If you’re feeling adventurous on 1 January, there is an alternative to stuffing your face with leftovers and overindulging in champagne. Around the region, locals brave the cold to take part in freezing organised sea swims in Dieppe, Etretat, Fécamp, Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer and Deauville. This invigorating tradition welcomes bathers from all over Normandy who meet for the first sea swim of the year in 7° water, wearing either a basic swimsuit, wetsuit or silly costume. A wholly refreshing experience and great fun too!

In Deauville, the pre-swim warm-up takes place with music, the ultimate motivator, 15 minutes before the swim. After the swim, hot drinks and snacks are offered to participants (upon registration).

In Cabourg, the last bath of the year is celebrated on 31 December. Meet the happy crew of swimmers wearing traditional Belle Epoque swimsuits in front of the Grand Hôtel for an energising swim to music performed by a brass band! Drinks and traditional madeleine cakes are waiting for all participants after the swim.

For more information, contact the local tourist offices directly (Dieppe, Etretat, Fécamp, Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, Cabourg, Deauville, etc.)