Book a cheap hotel in Deauville

Based in the Basse-Normandie region of France in the Calvados department, Deauville is a charming place which has undergone a major transformation. Starting as a small village, it has been transformed over the years into a high-end sea-side resort. While the village has existed since at least 1060, it was only in the 1800s that the Duke de Morny decided that Deauville had real potential.

By draining the marshes and adding a railway, a casino and a racecourse to a number of splendid villas, Deauville blossomed into the resort which is known and loved. Although many of its buildings were used to treat wounded soldiers during the wars, it didn’t take long before Deauville was up and running again. Its sand-dune location has attracted many artists and designers over the years, ensuring it packs a cultural punch ! Premiere Classe Deauville – Touques is ideally located along the river - you'll never want to leave !

A two-day break
Why not start your visit with a trip to the Yves Saint Laurent Place and take in the 18th century theatre built within the casino, which was inaugurated in 1912 by Vaslav Nijinski. Deauville boasts some stunning old villas such as Villa Le Cercle or the Villa Paradou, each one a unique showcase of architectural style. Then why not finish your break with relaxing stroll on the beach.

A week-long stay
If you’re staying for longer, visit the Saint-Laurent Church around which the medieval village of Deauville was centred. Then look at the site of the Battle of Normandy at Mont-Cariny or visit the Place du Marche to see the statue of Charles-Auguste de Morny. The 34-hectare park commissioned by business man Calouste Gulbenkian in 1937 is sure to take your breath away. If you’re feeling competitive, why not play a round of golf at the famous New Golf de Deauville golf club ?

A family holiday
Deauville is fully equipped to give your family the time of their lives ! With 2km of sandy beach, a legendary boardwalk, a pompei-style bathing courtyard and an Olympic swimming pool, how can you resist taking a dive ? Le Val des Cimes Adventure Park and the Leisure Park Normandie Challenge can both offer days of fun if you’re feeling adventurous. Horse-ridi9ng, kayaking, tennis – whatever your preferred activity, Deauville can accommodate you !

Transport
Deauville is around 2 hours way from Paris by train, with a connection from Paris Saint-Lazare. With regular flights from London, Deauville-Normandie airport is another option and its only 8km from the town. The A13 and the A29 connect Deauville to Paris and Amiens respectively. This sea-side gem also has a ferry connection to Portsmouth. Explore this resort on foot or by bike.

Food
As is typical of French sea-side towns, Deauville has a rich cuisine which sources ingredients from the sea and the land. Buchot mussels, Pont l’Evêque cheese, eurgoule (a cinnamon rice pudding) and Norman pie (an apple pie topped with whisked egg) are just some of the delicacies you must sample if you can. For a local tipple, have some Calvados (a brandy-like drink) or a glass of cider !

Events
The American Film festival adds a touch of international glamour to this maritime destination. Taking place in early September since 1975, it is a key venue for the showcasing the latest in American cinema within Europe. Over 100 films are presented to the public, making it an exciting event to add to your calendar !

Interesting fact
The likes of Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent are among the fashion greats that have left their mark on Deauville over the years ! Coco Chanel opened one of her first boutiques in here in 1913 – the she was said to have been inspired by the racecourses and yachts of the seas-side resort. The first ladies’ dinner jacket was also designed in Deauville by none other than Yves Saint Laurent.

Useful links
www.deauville.org/en/
www.bowlingdedeauville.com
www.levaldescimes.com
www.normandie-challenge.com
www.sncf.fr