The Parisian Riviera' is a term often thrown around when discussing Deauville, a beachy resort destination on France's northern coast. There's an oceanfront boardwalk, upscale boutiques and grand hotels and casinos. The commune even boasts a yacht-filled harbour and annual film festival. An easy two-hour drive from the capital, Deauville makes for a glamorous weekend jaunt from the thrum of Paris.
Founded in 1859 by Napoleon III's half-brother, the Duke of Morny, Deauville has long been an escape of choice for the French elite. The fashion scene exploded after renowned designer Coco Chanel launched her first boutique here in 1913, and the upper echelons have been holidaying here ever since. You can rub shoulders with them along the shop-lined place du Casino and rue Eugène-Colas or at the area's famous racecourses and polo grounds.
Strolls through town provide a great visual overview of Deauville's quiet charms. Half-timbered Norman buildings line historic plazas, while others feature flower-filled balconies and turrets that punctuate the skyline. You'll find the most scenic views along the Promenade des Planches, which skirts the umbrella-dotted beach and links to a multitude of seaside cafés, bars and hotels.
Every fall, Deauville sees a massive influx of visitors when the American Film Festival takes over town. 'Whiplash' and 'Little Miss Sunshine' are among the independent feature films that have been screened in the past. If you're in the area, Deauville's biggest event is hard to miss.