Deauville Honeymoon, France

Relax on a stylish honeymoon or romantic getaway holiday at Deauville, one of the most fashionable resorts in France – a favourite of the rich and famous since 1859, when the duc de Morny, Napoleon III's half brother, founded the town as an upscale resort.

Today, with its grand casino, two thoroughbred racecourses, sailing regattas, polo grounds, tennis courts, 18-hole golf courses and sumptuous hotels, Deauville offers all the necessary ingredients for a classy seaside break. It is a perfect distraction from the rigours of sightseeing in Paris, which is just two hours away by car and train.

Things to do and see

Away from the beach, Deauville offers a wide range of activities for both couples and families. Visit in September for the famous Deauville American Film Festival, where everybody is welcome.

Enjoy a flutter at the Casino Barrière de Deauville, with its slot machines, poker, roulette and Black Jack tables, as well as three restaurants, two bars and a nightclub.

Or take in the bracing sea air at the über-chic Hippodrome de Deauville-la Toques, where you can rub shoulders with the cream of the European racing elite and watch thoroughbred racehorses compete throughout the year. The nearby Hippodrome Deauville-Clairefontaine also hosts racing events during the summer months.

Tee-off year round at one of several golf clubs, including the Golf Barrière Deauville, a par-71, 18-hole course that is one of the largest in Europe, with sweeping views of the Auge Valley and La Manche (English Channel).

For thrills of a different kind, head to the motor racing circuit of Les Circuits de Deauville at Pont l'Eveque. Located around 10km from Deauville, the circuit offers various tracks for go-karting, Formula One and four-wheel drives.

The nearby Parc de Loisirs Normandie Challenge on the lake of Pont l'Eveque offers a range of water sports for children of all ages, including windsurfing, jet skiing, pedalos, sailing, kayaking, paint balling, tennis, mini golf and horseback riding.

The nearby seaside town of Honfleur offers a charming excursion, with its narrow streets, old houses and picturesque harbour immortalised by many painters.

Admire Deauville’s half-timbered Norman-style houses and visit fin-de-siecle villas such as the famous Villa Strassbuger. Browse for haute couture and the latest clothing and accessories along boutique-lined rue Eugène-Colas, on the streets connecting the place Morny (named for the resort's founder) and place du Casino.

The legendary Coco Chanel launched her career in Deauville and famous French fashion designer Yves Saint Larent maintained a home here.

Accommodation

Golfers will appreciate the half-timbered Hotel du Golf Barriere, an English country-house styled accommodation located in the hills above Deauville, with its own 18-hole golf course and children’s centre. Find Deauville hotels . . .

Best time to visit Deauville?

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