Danger to life on the chalk cliffs: entry is now prohibited!

Danger to life on the chalk cliffs: entry is now prohibited!

The famous chalk cliffs of Étretat in Normandy are now no longer accessible to tourists. This measure was taken to ensure the safety of visitors and minimize the risk of fatal accidents and rock falls. The main reason for this ban is the progressive coastal erosion that has severely affected the area in recent years. According to [oe24.at](https://www.oe24.at/welt/lebensfähr-dieser-touristen-hotspot-darf-nicht-mehr-begehen- Werden/633367802), entering the rock breakthroughs below the cliffs leads to an increased risk.

The new rules restrict access to large parts of the beaches, while the promenade beach in Étretat is exempt from this ban. Access to three striking rock formations that are considered tourist highlights is now also prohibited. The chalk cliffs attract around 1.5 million tourists every year, but fatal accidents occur again and again, especially when visitors stand too close to the approximately 90 meter high cliffs.

Security measures

Visitors are only allowed to come within five meters of the edge of the cliffs. In addition, the municipality assumes no responsibility for accidents caused by ignoring the new regulations or climbing over barriers. Violations of the restrictions result in fines of at least 35 euros. The fire department has announced that it will invoice rescue operations in the future, unless the accidents are serious. The fire department had already pointed out the dangers on the cliffs in a warning video in 2022.

Erosion is a widespread problem that threatens not only human safety but also infrastructure. In Criel-sur-Mer, a village in Normandy, the crumbling rocks threaten numerous houses. Mayor Alain Trouessin has said it is predicted that up to 32 houses will have to be demolished in the next 50 years because they are too close to the edge. In recent years, the community has lost 30 centimeters of rock per year, increasing the population's concerns, as reported by [srf.ch](https://www.srf.ch/news/international/kuestenerosion-in-der-normandie-frankreichs-klippen-broeckeln-TEN Thousande-haeuser-sind-thronet).

Tourism and challenges

The cliffs along the Alabaster Coast attract numerous hikers who want to enjoy the impressive views. There are already some beautiful photo opportunities along the hiking trails, such as the famous Falaise d’Aval and Falaise La Manneporte. According to a travel report from diedaeubersunterwegs.de, visitors often experience narrow paths with wonderful views of the chalk cliffs and the Atlantic.

However, local authorities face the challenge of balancing the surge in holidaymakers wanting to explore the coast with the looming dangers of erosion. It remains to be seen how the new access restrictions will affect tourism in the region and whether they can actually reduce the risks for visitors.