La Bouille on the banks of the SeineLa Bouille 2016 Sma76 V Rustuel 18
©La Bouille|V. Rustuel

La Bouille, a village
with timeless charm
 On the banks of the Seine

Timeless & dynamic

Nestled in the loops of the Seine near Rouen,La Bouille is a quiet village where time seems suspended.

Surrounded by cliffs and bordered by the banks of the river, the landscape is soothing. Its picturesque little streets and small port have won over many Impressionist painters, fascinated by the changing light and reflections of the water.

This discreet village abounds in small artisan galleries, while preserving its authentic charm.

 La Bouille, a source of inspiration for artists

La Bouille is one of those villages that have attracted many painters in search of the picturesque. Among those who have set down their easels are Alfred Sisley, Claude Monet and Albert Lebourg.

In fact, if you take the time to observe the same scenes, you’ll be able to feel the poetry that touched these great artists. Even today, the village’s alleyways abound with small art galleries where artisans welcome visitors to share their passion. La Bouille is a village where art is part of everyday life.

Painters were not the only ones to be charmed by this place. In the 19th century, writers such as Victor Hugo, Octave Mirbeau, Guy de Maupassant and Gustave Flaubert wrote about the village.

It is also the birthplace of writer Hector Malot, author of “Sans famille”. You can even admire his house.

 Discovering La Bouille's heritage and landscapes

To discover La Bouille in a different way, follow the tourist trail that takes you through the village’s narrow streets, monuments and emblematic panoramas.

Along the way, 33 panels in French and English reveal the soul of La Bouille, with information on its history, architecture and even local expressions.

It’s the ideal way to soak up the atmosphere of the village, as you walk at your own pace between the Seine and the forest. A journey through time, where every step brings you a little closer to the spirit of La Bouille.

 Trails between the Seine and the forest

For nature-lovers, there are several routes to explore the region on foot or by bike, including the “La Seine à vélo” circuit. This itinerary is renowned for following the meandering Seine through lush green countryside.

From Rouen to La Bouille via the banks of the Seine.
This itinerary takes you from the heart of Rouen to La Bouille, through a variety of panoramas, from riverside to country roads. By bike, this escapade allows you to discover the variety of landscapes, alternating between forests and unobstructed views of the Seine. Along the way, contemplate picturesque villages and natural areas where you can stop and enjoy the surrounding calm.

From La Bouille to Jumièges: a journey through history and nature.
Continuing from La Bouille, the route leads to Jumièges, famous for its thousand-year-old abbey. This route is ideal for a day’s exploration, alternating between small shady roads and paths along the banks of the Seine. The ferry crossing from La Bouille offers a unique experience, and once on the other side, the trails plunge you into the tranquility of Normandy’s natural landscapes. This route is perfect for those seeking an adventure between heritage and nature, with exceptional views all along the way.

A stopover by the water
In La Bouille, take the time to discover the serenity of the banks of the Seine for a weekend or a day. For a gourmet break, make yourself comfortable on the terrace overlooking the Seine and let yourself be tempted by the local flavours. The restaurant Le Saint-Pierre and the gastronomic restaurant La Maison Blanche welcome you in authentic surroundings.

What is a “bac”?

It’s a flat-bottomed boat typical of Normandy that links the two banks of the Seine.

Ferries enable locals and visitors to cross the Seine at several key points, eight in all.

Climb aboard and enjoy a simple, authentic crossing: in just five minutes, you can cross from one bank to the other, free of charge, and every fifteen minutes.

Plan your weekend in La Bouille

Want to extend your stay in this charming village?

The hotel-restaurant Le Bellevue promises a gentle, soothing stay, like a break from time. And if you’d like to discover the village from a different angle, take a cruise from Rouen.

Let yourself be carried away by the landscapes of the Boucles de la Seine, admiring the small villages and wooded banks as they gently pass by.

How to get to La Bouille