Private tour: visit Deauville in a sidecar

If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to see Deauville, this private sidecar tour offers a blend of adventure, history, and scenic beauty. Rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 153 reviews, it’s clear that travelers love this experience for its personal touch and unique perspective. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even with small children, this tour combines the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar with insightful commentary from local guides.

What makes this experience stand out is its intimate nature—small groups (just your party plus the driver), personal anecdotes, and the chance to see Deauville’s most iconic sights from a fresh vantage point. The only consideration? It’s weather-dependent, so a rainy day might not be the best time to hop on a sidecar. But if you’re after something offbeat and packed with local stories, this is a fantastic choice for those who love an active, engaging way to explore.

Ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and a bit of adrenaline, this tour suits history buffs, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a different perspective of Normandy’s seaside town. Be prepared for a fun, authentic ride through Deauville’s charming streets and scenic viewpoints.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers a memorable, photo-worthy way to discover Deauville.
• Personalized Guide: Local drivers provide engaging commentary and interesting anecdotes about the town’s sights.
• Comfort & Safety: Helmets, rain gear, and gloves are provided, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
• Short & Sweet: The 40-45 minute tour hits key highlights without taking up your entire day.
• Inclusive & Flexible: Accommodates up to two adults and a small child, with group discounts available for larger bookings.
• Scenic & Cultural Stops: Pass by historic landmarks, racecourses, and beautiful viewpoints like Calvaire de la Corniche.

A Deep Dive into the Sidecar Experience in Deauville

This tour is designed for those seeking a personalized, fun way to explore Deauville beyond typical walking tours or bus excursions. The experience is private, so only your group participates—making it ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or small families wanting a memorable adventure.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

The tour kicks off at the Quai de l’Impératrice Eugénie, a scenic spot along the riverfront. From there, your local guide (most often a driver with a passion for sharing Deauville’s stories) will take you through a carefully curated route, highlighting both famous and lesser-known spots.

Hotel Barrière Le Normandy: You’ll glide past this grand hotel, which has been a symbol of luxury since 1912. Known for its elegance and historical significance, it also served as a filming location for Agatha Christie’s Poirot, giving it a touch of cinematic fame.

Eglise Saint Augustin: Built on land bought just nine days before construction began in 1864, this church stands as a reminder of Deauville’s rapid development in the late 19th century. Its placement on the heights of Mont Canisy offers great views and some interesting local lore, as noted by reviewers who appreciated the guide’s detailed storytelling.

La Touques Hippodrome: Horse racing fans will love passing by this vibrant racetrack, known for hosting races throughout the year, including prestigious Group 1 events. The fact that it was the first to include a sand-fibre track, allowing winter races even when snow covers the Normand plains, makes it a fascinating stop.

Villa Strassburger: This impressive mansion, built in 1907, is a gem of architectural interest. Protected as a historical monument, it was owned by a baron with a fondness for racing and is often highlighted by guides for its lovely setting near the racetrack.

Church of St. Lawrence and Tourgeville Military Cemetery: Climbing to the heights to visit this church grants panoramic views of Deauville, while the nearby military cemetery offers a poignant reminder of the area’s history, maintained meticulously by the Commonwealth.

Racecourses & Casinos: You’ll pass by the charming Clairefontaine racecourse, adorned with flowers, as well as the historic casino built in 1912—restored in a baroque style—adding a touch of glamour to the route.

Calvaire de la Corniche: End your tour at this lookout point, offering what many describe as the most beautiful view of Trouville and Deauville. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take photos, and soak in the Normandy coast’s charm.

What to Expect During the Ride

Most reviewers mention feeling safe and comfortable, thanks to helmets, rain gear, and gloves provided by the operator. The sidecar can accommodate up to two adults and a small child, which means families or couples can enjoy the ride together. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and guides often share detailed anecdotes, from Hollywood celebrities who visited to local racing legends.

We loved the way guides like Florent and Thomas bring the tour to life, sharing stories that range from Jean Gabin’s visits to the town’s connection with fashion icons like Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. Their enthusiasm makes the ride lively and engaging, more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s like exploring with a well-informed friend.

The Length and Overall Value

At around 40 to 45 minutes, the tour offers a compact but rich experience. While it doesn’t cover every corner of Deauville, the selected highlights deliver a good sense of the town’s character and history. The price point of $82.94 per person is reasonable, considering the personalized experience and the chance to see multiple sites from a unique vantage point.

Travelers consistently mention the value of the tour, especially for its fun factor, local insights, and scenic routes. As one reviewer put it, “it was a fabulous fun with knowledgeable, fun, and experienced riders,” and many recommend it as the best way to enjoy Deauville’s fresh air and sights.

Weather Considerations

Since this is an outdoor experience, the success largely depends on good weather. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to rain, which is a helpful reassurance. If rain or wind threaten, it might be better to wait for a clearer day to fully enjoy the ride.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sidecar adventure is ideal for adventurers who want a different perspective on Deauville’s sights. History buffs will appreciate the stories shared along the route, while those after a fun, photo-worthy experience will find it unforgettable. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples looking for a romantic or playful way to explore.

Families with small children might enjoy the ride too, given that the sidecar can accommodate a small child and the guides are attentive to safety and comfort. If you prefer structured, large-group tours, this might not be your best fit, but for those craving intimacy and authenticity, it’s perfect.

Final Thoughts

For a combination of sightseeing, adventure, and local storytelling, this Deauville sidecar tour offers an authentic slice of Normandy life. The personal approach from friendly guides, combined with spectacular views and unique stops, provides excellent value at a reasonable price.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to see Deauville from a different angle—literally—this experience will not disappoint. It’s a lively, intimate, and fun way to learn about the town’s storied past and enjoy the Normandy scenery.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour provides a charming, memorable way to explore Deauville’s highlights while sharing a laugh and some awe-inspiring sights along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the sidecar can hold up to one small child along with two adults, making it suitable for families. Children aged 4-6 must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the vintage sidecar experience, a local guide, helmets, gloves, rain gear, and the ride itself. Food and drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 40 to 45 minutes, covering key sights and scenic viewpoints in Deauville.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for weather conditions is recommended. Helmets and rain gear are provided, and you might want to bring sunglasses or a hat on sunny days.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance or if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Quai de l’Impératrice Eugénie and returns to the same point after completing the route.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a personalized and intimate ride.

What’s the cost per person?
It’s priced at about $82.94 per person, offering good value considering the personalized service and sightseeing.

Do I need prior experience or special skills to ride?
Not at all. The tour is guided, and the driver handles the riding, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride safely.

In summary, this Deauville sidecar tour offers a lively, intimate, and visually stunning way to explore a charming Normandy town. With knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and a dash of adventure, it’s a wonderful addition to any itinerary.