Summer is usually a time for holidays and relaxation, but my plans were delayed until September this year. I had been eagerly anticipating a two-week getaway, but unfortunately, the first week was consumed by household chores and then I fell ill. After enduring a period of intense work, I realized that the only solution was to prioritize rest and recovery. As I regained my strength, I seized the opportunity to prepare my Land Rover for an adventurous journey to Fecamp.

Immerse yourself in the rich tradition and maritime charm of Fécamp, nestled next to the stunning ocean. Get ready to capture the breathtaking beauty of the tallest cliffs in Normandy, standing over 300 feet tall, and providing a magnificent backdrop along the Alabaster Coast. Fécamp is perfectly located in the valley of the river Valmont, at the heart of the Pays de Caux, on the Alabaster Coast. Just 35 kilometres northeast of Le Havre and 60 kilometres northwest of Rouen, this picturesque town offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Behold the stunning harbour of Fécamp!

The history of this enchanting place is intertwined with the captivating tale of the fishing industry and its ancient harbour, first mentioned in the 11th century. Fécamp’s renown for its salted herrings dates back to the 10th century, while smoked herrings gained fame in the 13th century. In the 11th century, a league of whale fishermen was formed, marking the beginning of a rich maritime tradition. Commercial cod fishing began in the 16th century, spurred by the pioneering spirit of Nicolas Selles, a prominent shipping magnate.

Fécamp thrived as France’s primary port for cod and related fish throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, until the 1970s when access to Canadian fishing grounds was halted. Initially, the perilous fishing expeditions were undertaken in small boats, manned by just two or three brave souls. Many of these boats disappeared into the fog, never to return. With technological advancements, the iconic three-masted ships gave way to steamers and diesel-powered vessels. Today, only a small fishing fleet remains, confined to coastal waters. The harbour, once bustling with fishing boats, is now graced with the presence of pleasure boats, a poignant reminder of a bygone era.

Step into the beautiful heart of the harbour and behold the exquisite statues of Sculpture de Dominique Denry, each masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the harbour in Fécamp. A picturesque, long curved beach awaits at the head of the port, inviting you to stroll along the promenade, where you can indulge in the stunning scenery. At one end of the promenade stands a majestic lighthouse, adding to the allure of this enchanting coastal setting.

Nestled next to the ocean, the historic semaphore of Fécamp stands proudly as a symbol of maritime vigilance, its origins dating back to 1808. Perched on the cliff’s edge, this brick building boasts a distinctive hexagonal roof and a towering mast, serving as a crucial lookout and transmission post.

Today, the current semaphore, housed in the stone tower of the former “lighthouse of the Virgin” constructed in 1834, commands a breathtaking view 117 meters above the sea. This sentinel of the sea, classified as 1st category, stands ready to provide an unwavering watch, 24/7. Operated by the French Navy, it plays a vital role in broadcasting weather warnings and bulletins to mariners, safeguarding French waters, executing sea rescue missions, and overseeing signalling and pollution control. Distinguished from lighthouses illuminating the waters for navigating ships, semaphores take on the crucial responsibility of monitoring and managing maritime spaces.

As I continued my stroll, the breathtaking view of the ocean and the majestic cliffs of Cap Fagnet captivated me. Rising 110 meters above sea level, this is the highest point of the Alabaster Coast, surpassing even Etretat in elevation. Perched on the heights of Fécamp, Cap Fagnet offers an awe-inspiring panorama of the city, the sea, and the magnificent white cliffs. The ever-changing hues and moods of the sea and sky have been a perennial inspiration for painters and writers. Additionally, this historic site has played a pivotal role, serving as a Gallic fortress and later as a strategic stronghold of the Atlantic Wall.

Embark on an exhilarating surf adventure at the breathtaking Fécamp! This exposed beach break delivers consistently excellent surf, complemented by offshore winds from the southwest. Whether it’s wind swells or groundswells, you’ll discover perfect waves, especially from the west. The beach predominantly features lefts, offering great surf at all tide stages.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the magic of the moment unfolded before our eyes. A golden hour bathed the French coastline in a breathtaking glow, casting a spell that captivated all who beheld it.

Embarking on an exhilarating journey, I covered almost 500 km in just 6 hours, weaving through picturesque countryside roads and unveiling the beauty of northern France. As dusk settled, I found a serene camping spot by the ocean, preparing for a restful night’s sleep before my eagerly anticipated exploration of the enchanting city of Fécamp tomorrow.

Wishing you a peaceful night!

 

Thank you