Once a month, Luxus Magazine sets sail for a destination in France or elsewhere to discover the most elegant addresses. Characterful hotels, fine dining, rare boutiques, cultural getaways… Our guidebook is like a magic key for discerning travelers.
Between the sea and the countryside, Deauville has embodied a certain idea of French elegance for over a century. Its half-timbered villas, multicolored parasols, legendary boardwalk, and Belle Époque casino create a setting that is both glamorous and familiar, immortalized by filmmakers and loved by Parisians in search of sea air.
But Deauville is not limited to its glamorous image. In the surrounding area, Trouville, Honfleur, and Bénerville-sur-Mer reveal another side of Normandy: more secret, more authentic. Gourmet markets, stud farms, forest walks, and generous tables remind us that the region cultivates above all a taste for simple and authentic things.
Under a changing sky, where the light plays with the sea, you move seamlessly from urban chic to bucolic charm. Whether for a weekend getaway or an off-season retreat, Deauville and its flower-filled coastline offer a respite between land and sea, punctuated by the tides, sunsets, and the quiet elegance of those who know how to savor time.
🔑 Historical key: Under the influence of the Duke of Morny
Founded in 1860 by the Duke of Morny, half-brother of Napoleon III, Deauville was born from the dream of an elegant resort on the Normandy coast. The arrival of the railroad soon attracted Parisian high society, followed by artists and designers. At the beginning of the 20th century, Paul Poiret and Gabrielle Chanel imposed a new look, freeing fashion from corsets and formalism. Horse racing, the casino and grand hotels, Belle Époque villas, and legendary boardwalks marked its golden age. Deauville became the scene of unapologetic modernity: relaxed chic, changing light, and eternal charm.
🔑 Key to sleep: Les Manoirs de Tourgeville
Claude Lelouch, who fell in love with this little corner of Calvados while filming “A Man and a Woman”, imagined a movie set in a hotel. He decided to build a vast Norman building for the filming of “L’Hôtel,” a feature film that would ultimately never see the light of day. The place then became the Hostellerie de Tourgéville, where, for three decades, the stars of the silver screen who came to Deauville for the American Film Festival sought a little peace and quiet in the heart of the Normandy countryside. In 2009, Claude Lelouch handed over the reins to the Floirat Signatures Group to continue bringing this legendary place to life. Its president, Antoine Chevanne, imagined different places to stay scattered throughout a superb seven-hectare park: thus Les Manoirs de Tourgéville was born.
On the outskirts of Deauville, this gem consists of four manor houses and 57 rooms, including 35 suites. Each manor house has its own personality, but all share the charm of exposed beams, antique terracotta tiles, and, above all, majestic stone fireplaces.
With a heated indoor pool, sauna, library, 50-seat private cinema, yoga classes in the park, fitness area, tennis court, pétanque courts, and bike rides, well-being comes in all forms here and can be enjoyed at your own pace, according to your desires.
🔑 The key to the must-see attraction: Les Planches de Deauville
The ultimate symbol of the resort, the famous boardwalk lined with cabins named after American actors invites you to stroll between the sea and style. This is where the heart of Deauville beats, between changing light, elegant strollers, and the scent of the sea. The sunset ritual is savored here as a tribute to timeless elegance.
🔑 Sporty key: a wide range of outdoor activities
In Deauville and its surroundings, sport and elegance go hand in hand. Paddleboarding on the sea, horse riding on the sand at sunrise, kayaking on the Touques, cycling through the countryside, brisk walking on the boardwalk or swimming laps in the Olympic-size indoor pool: each activity celebrates an active and serene lifestyle in the great outdoors.
🔑 Style Key: what you need to face the unpredictable Normandy weather
© Pier Augé
The Prince Jardinier’s red velvet bucket hat to protect you from the sun and rain in style, Pier Augé’s SPF 50+ UV protection to prepare you for a sunny day by the sea, and Elastique Athletics leggings to combine sport and comfort. Three well-chosen essentials for a Normandy getaway that combines practicality and style.
And if you have a pet, Jott‘s Cutie down jacket, the latest addition to the French outdoor clothing brand, is a must-have to slip into your bag!
🔑 Key to the historical visit: Villa Mors
A little-known gem in Deauville, Villa Mors bears witness to the architectural exuberance of the turn of the 20th century. Its half-timbered facade, bow windows, sloping roof, and manicured gardens create a typically Norman setting. It recalls the splendor of the Belle Époque, when Deauville was already establishing itself as the most refined resort on the coast.
🔑 The key to a successful lunch on the boardwalk: Le Bar du Soleil
An iconic address on the boardwalk, Le Bar du Soleil combines a lively terrace, sea views, and simple cuisine with a maritime flavor. Here you can enjoy a seafood platter, sole meunière, or a fresh salad in a friendly atmosphere where regulars, horse riders, and elegant weekend strollers rub shoulders.
🔑 The key to an unmissable lunch in town: Le Turbulent
Le Turbulent, in Trouville-sur-Mer, near Deauville, is a creative bistro run by chef Jarvis Scott, a former contestant on Top Chef. The restaurant has 35 covers spread over two floors: an intimate first room with a few tables and a counter offering a direct view of the kitchen, then a cozy upper floor with a large shared table that can seat around twenty guests. The atmosphere is lively, the spirit rock ‘n’ roll, and the cuisine inventive, featuring seasonal produce prepared with daring and a well-chosen wine list.
🔑 Key to culture: Les Franciscaines
A former convent transformed into a multidisciplinary cultural center that opened in 2021, Les Franciscaines houses a museum, media library, exhibition galleries, and reading areas. A place of life and knowledge of rare elegance, entirely renovated by the Moatti-Riviere firm, where heritage architecture and modernity interact harmoniously. A must-see for understanding the cultural soul of Deauville.
🔑 Key to architectural discovery: Villa Strassburger
Built in 1907 for Baron Henri de Rothschild, Villa Strassburger is a perfect example of Anglo-Norman Norman style. Listed as a historic monument, it charms visitors with its half-timbering, stained glass windows, period furniture, and flower-filled gardens. An intact testament to the grandeur of a sophisticated and refined Deauville.
🔑 Key to the local flavors market: The Trouville Market
On the quayside, Trouville Market is brimming with local produce: fresh fish, Saint-Vaast oysters, Isigny butter, Camembert, Pont-l’Évêque cheese, cider, calvados, and soft caramels. With its lilting accents and overflowing baskets, the experience is a treat for the senses and a tribute to Normandy’s rich culinary heritage.
🔑 Well-being key: The Esthederm spa
In the heart of Tourgeville, the Esthederm spa offers treatments whose protocol is distinguished by a biomimetic approach: they respect and reinforce the skin’s natural mechanisms rather than counteracting them. Thanks to the brand’s signature Eau Cellulaire and formulas inspired by skin biology, they offer lasting effectiveness, optimal tolerance, and preserved radiance at every age.
🔑 Frosted key: Martine Lambert Glaces et Sorbets
A local institution since 1975, Martine Lambert delights young and old alike with her artisanal ice creams. Made with fresh fruit and farm-fresh milk, they come in flavors emblematic of the region: apple, salted butter caramel, Anjou pear, and island vanilla. A frozen treat with a touch of retro elegance.
🔑 Key to the current exhibition: Pierre & Gilles at Les Franciscaines
The baroque and poetic world of visual artist duo Pierre & Gilles takes over Les Franciscaines until January 4, 2026. Iconic portraits, saturated colors, and mythological references interact with the light of Deauville. A sensitive and vibrant exhibition, paying tribute to the beauty, diversity, and power of the image.
🔑 Key to the soul: Saint-Christophe Church in Bénerville-sur-Mer
Perched facing the sea, this 12th-century Romanesque church exudes serenity. Its colorful stained-glass windows and bell tower overlooking the cliffs make it a unique place of contemplation, where you can feel all the gentleness and depth of the Norman soul.
🔑 Cinematic Key: Ciné Bistrot Claude Lelouch
On November 3, 2025, Claude Lelouch inaugurated an intimate and welcoming Ciné-Bistrot in Trouville-sur-Mer. Located opposite the seawall immortalized in A Man and a Woman, this hybrid venue combines cinema and gastronomy: a 30-seat theater, velvet armchairs, a simple and convivial menu, and a large terrace overlooking the Touques River. Designed as a lounge, it is a space for sharing, meeting people, and experiencing emotions, where you can dine and watch the director’s films in a cozy and authentic atmosphere.
🔑 Key to aperitif time: L’Épicerie Accords Parfaits
This secret address combines fine products, carefully selected wines, and French conviviality. A selection of mature cheeses, vintage calvados, or champagne from local vineyards can be enjoyed at the counter or on the terrace. It’s the perfect place for an elegant and relaxed aperitif.
🔑 Horse riding: Le Haras du Manoir Saint-Pierre in Azif
Set in lush green countryside, Le Haras du Manoir Saint-Pierre embodies Normandy’s passion for horses. Whether you’re interested in horse riding, lessons, or an introduction to classical riding, everything here exudes authenticity and elegance. Immerse yourself in the world of horses, the living symbol of Deauville’s identity.
🔑 Style key: Le Printemps Deauville
In a bright and refined setting, the new Printemps Deauville brings together a cutting-edge selection of fashion, beauty, and design brands. The store combines modernity and French art de vivre, with capsule collections, personalized advice, and exclusives inspired by the Normandy Riviera.
🔑 Airbnb key: La Closerie in Benerville-sur-Mer
A beautiful 130 m² Norman house with a 35 m² outbuilding, offering a breathtaking sea view and a 600 m² garden, with no fewer than 5 bedrooms, La Closerie is the ideal place for special moments with family or friends. Completely renovated in 2021, this residence combines authentic charm with modern comfort. Just 300 meters from the beach, the house is close to shops, an equestrian center, a sailing club, a casino, and a racecourse.
🔑 Decoration key: La Maison
An elegant concept store, La Maison celebrates the French art of living: refined linens, handmade ceramics, scents, and antique furniture. Each object tells a story, combining authenticity and aesthetics. An inspiring stop for lovers of beautiful things and harmonious interiors.
🔑 Key to a walk in the ancient forest: The Forest of Saint-Gatien-des-Bois
A green lung between Deauville and Honfleur, the forest of Saint-Gatien spreads its centuries-old beech and oak trees over more than 3,500 hectares. A 10 km loop (about 2 hours and 45 minutes) invites you to walk, contemplate, and reconnect with yourself in a preserved and soothing natural setting.
🔑 Key to a gourmet dinner with local flavors: Le 1889
At the restaurant Le 1889, chef Emmanuel Andrieu and his teams showcase the treasures of the region in a cozy atmosphere: Normandy oysters, roasted scallops, fish from the English Channel, tender meats, garden vegetables with intact flavors, succulent chocolate waffles, and Calvados apple fritters. Each dish becomes an experience of sharing and conviviality, combining authenticity and refinement.
🔑 Lucky key: The Casino Barrière in Deauville
A Belle Époque masterpiece inaugurated in 1912, the Casino Barrière remains a symbol of Deauville’s glamour. Games, theater, and shows punctuate the evenings under the period chandeliers. A legendary place, where the splendor of a golden age is replayed with panache.
🔑 Clubbing key: Le Point Bar
A Deauville nightlife institution, Le Point Bar combines casual elegance with a festive atmosphere. Signature cocktails, live music, and a Parisian clientele on vacation create a chic and friendly setting, faithful to the Normandy version of la dolce vita.
🔑 Hidden gem: The Marais de Blonville-Villers
Just a few minutes from the sea, this 120-hectare protected natural site is home to remarkable biodiversity. Among the reed beds, wet meadows, and discreet paths, you may encounter herons and horses. A green and peaceful interlude, still preserved from the hustle and bustle of the coast.
💡 Good to know
Avoid the months of July and August if you are looking for peace and quiet, as the resort is very busy at this time.
Opt for the warmer months (April to June, September to October), when the light is softer and the boardwalk is less crowded.
Deauville can be reached by train from Paris-Saint-Lazare (2 hours), by car via the A13, or by plane via Deauville-Normandie Airport.
Bring both a raincoat and sunscreen: in Normandy, you can experience all four seasons in a single day!
Next stop: Mauritius
Read also > Escale iconique… Lisbonne
Featured photo: © Tom Delanoue
