Sissi

Between land and sea, this 11 km long circular walk will take you to explore the Alabaster Coast and the Pays de Caux countryside. The "Empress Sissi" route will surprise you with its varied landscapes that reflect the numerous gems and attractions of Normandy.

Leaving from Sassetot-le-Mauconduit, this route follows in the footsteps of Empress Elisabeth of Austrian, better known as "Sissi", who during the summer of 1875, stayed in the famous château of the village. During their stay in Seine-Maritime, the Empress and her daughter followed this beautiful trail in order to spend a few hours by the sea to recharge their batteries.

Your journey back in time will start in the woods of Pas Griand. Surrounded by vegetation, you will be able to listen to the birds singing while watching true Norman cows, easily recognizable thanks to their chestnut-coloured spots. Along the way, you will also be able to see carpets of bluebells. During the spring months, these little bells brighten up the woods with their violet-blue flowers!

A gentle descent will take you to the Chemin des Petites Dalles. Here, you will be able to admire the local architecture and the half-timbered farms. This traditional building technique, dating back to Antiquity, perfectly combines wooden beams and wattle and daub masonry. You will also be surprised by the combination of flint and bricks that gives local buildings colourful and artistic walls. Take time to look up to admire the thatched roofs of the thatched cottages and the irises growing on top!

The "Empress Sissi" route then leads to the villages of Les Petites-Dalles and Les Grandes-Dalles. There, you will walk along the sea and take in its ever-changing colours. After short climbs up the cliff, turn around to enjoy the great panoramic views over these two typical villages that combine fishermen's houses with seaside villas. From the top, you will also have a breathtaking view over the imposing white cliffs of the Alabaster Coast!

A few kilometres through flamboyant rape fields, you will arrive in the village of Saint-Pierre-en-Port with its Saint Gervais Chapel, built in the 19th century, after the original building was largely destroyed by fire. If you feel hungry, do not hesitate to stop for a gourmet break in this welcoming village!


After crossing impressive plains, you will be back in front of Empress Sissi's Château. Stop a moment to admire the building, listed a Historic Monument since 1992. Nowadays, the château is a charming boutique hotel and restaurant.