Updated on 22 December 2023
Reading time: 4 minutes
Embark on an adrenaline-filled journey just a few kilometers from Dieppe along Normandy’s stunning Alabaster Coast, where we delve into a surprisingly exhilarating activity: an off-road electric scooter ride. Get ready to explore breathtaking and diverse landscapes, with the ultimate reward awaiting: a locally flavoured aperitif against the backdrop of a mesmerizing sunset!
On a brilliantly crisp autumn day, the shores of Quiberville unfold before us. Anaïs and Anthony, wearing vibrant “Wolftrott” hoodies, stand proudly by their headquarters to welcome me. Joining two local groups of friends, our guide for the day, Anthony, equips us with helmets, gloves, and the impressive all-terrain electric scooter—nothing like the traditional scooter image we have in mind! On solid ground, we familiarise ourselves with our sleek rides. Anthony demonstrates the art of “easing off the throttle during braking” and emphatises the crucial safety distances between each scooter. Some participants appear somewhat apprehensive, but the presence of Celine, a motorcycle instructor, swiftly instills confidence. The scooters are speed-limited to 25 km/h, but the promise of great sensations, especially on the descents, quickly captures our collective excitement.
Unleashing the Power of Electric Scooters
We reach the first spot atop Quiberville, greeted by a panoramic view of the coastline. Excitement fills the air as we share our initial impressions. The consensus is clear—scootering provides a different thrill than cycling, leaning more towards the realm of action sports. Personally, I find it more stable than a mountain bike and remarkably comfortable. With the scooters reignited, we dash through fields, the sea serving as our picturesque backdrop along the cliff trail GR®21. Our next destination presents a stark landscape contrast : the Longueil Marsh, a convergence of three wetland areas. A distant church atop the heights catches my eye. From the marsh, we embark on a swift journey to reach the Vasterival valley, urged on by Anthony’s “as quickly as possible” directive! While our guide favours trails, he’s attuned to the group’s skill level, acknowledging that “it gets a little bumpy” and adapts accordingly.
An impressive coastal Valley
Before reaching the Vasterival coastal valley, we traverse through wooded areas, surrounded by picturesque residences and maritime pines. Taking a brief break from our scooters, we descend on foot to the ravine. Nestled at the foot of the ochre cliffs, the beach unfolds in a rugged and untamed landscape — a truly impressive setting!
Anthony shares insights into natural erosion, revealing that Cap d’Ailly experiences a coastline retreat of 40 to 50 cm per year. Capturing a group photo as a memento, we set our sights on the Ailly Lighthouse. Heather and gorse flourish in its vicinity, showcasing unique vegetation typical of the Upper Normandy coast due to the nature of its subsoil. Our journey concludes at Sainte-Marguerite-sur-Mer, where a World War II bunker appears stranded on the pebble beach. Our guide elucidates the intentional relocation of this relic, explaining that the bunker, posing a threat of collapse, was deliberately “unbolted” from the cliff. An insightful journey back to August 19, 1942, transports us to the failed Jubilee landing attempt in Dieppe.
A Seaside Aperitif with Local Flavours
After that thrilling off-road ride, the moment we’ve all been waiting for finally arrives – aperitif time! Anaïs has transformed the beach promenade into a classy setting with a high table that could pass for a champagne bucket. Now, here’s the exciting part – we get to choose from the local treats like Dieppe beer and farmhouse cider from Pays de Caux, or go for the equally tantalizing option of wine. As for appetizers, we’re spoiled with goat cheese, Le Galet d’Albâtre, Neufchâtel pâté, and even some sausage. The day concludes just as it began, in splendor with a breathtaking sunset, and in high spirits.
*Alcohol consumption can be harmful to health. Drink responsibly
PRACTICAL INFO
Woltrott
Guided All-Terrain Electric Scooter Excursion
The Scooter Adventure-Aperitif (1h30mins)
Rue du Front de mer
76860 Quiberville-sur-Mer
+33 (0)6 11 05 18 50
[email protected]
wolftrott.fr
Other themed excursions are available.
From 14 years old.
Requirement: knowing how to ride a bike.
Dates 2024
All year-round
RATES 2024
55 € per person
WHERE TO STAY OVERNIGHT ?
L’Huîtrière in Quiberville, an inviting hotel with select rooms boasting sea views.
Fenêtres sur mer in Sainte-Marguerite-sur-Mer, a Bed & Breakfast featuring guest rooms with panoramic ocean vistas, a rejuvenating spa and sauna.
Le Moulin de Longueil, a Bed & Breakfast offering cozy guest rooms and a unique caravan stay.
Le domaine Saâne et Mer, a 4-star campground
Please remember that cliffs pose potential dangers due to natural erosion. Informational signs and markings are in place for safety and environmental preservation. In general, it is crucial to avoid approaching the cliff edges for your own safety.