Houlgate, tucked along the Calvados coastline in Normandy, France, is where sun-kissed days meet fresh sea air and a dash of playful charm. I love how the town feels like a friendly wink from the past: colorful beach huts, a broad sandy shore, and a promenade that invites late-night ice cream runs with friends. When I’m planning a get-away with my squad, this corner of Normandy feels like a perfect balance of easy relaxation and active adventures. And yes, it’s absolutely a place where I can bring the pup, hit the waves, and still find the perfect holiday rental that welcomes both humans and four-legged companions. For anyone scouting places to stay in the area, a quick search on searchandstay.com is a smart start to lock in the right vacation rentals and holiday rentals that cater to Pet Friendly Rentals.
Why Houlgate is a standout destination in Normandy
Normandy is a treasure trove of history, gastronomy, and coastlines that look almost too picturesque to be real. Houlgate stands out for its sunlit beaches, grassy dunes, and a town center that buzzes with cafés, boutiques, and a weekly market. It’s a place where you can wake up to the sound of gulls and decide, on a whim, to bike along a winding riverside path, then cool off with a splash in the sea before lunch. The town’s easy access to nearby gems—Cabourg’s palm-lined promenade, Deauville’s grand seaside glamour, and the tranquil orchards of the Calvados region—means you can craft a Normandy escape that feels both intimate and expansive. This is a destination where vacation rentals and holiday rentals frequently come with pet-friendly options, so you can keep your four-legged sidekick close throughout your trip.
Pet Friendly Rentals in Houlgate and the Calvados region
When choosing a place to stay, I always check for pet-friendly accommodations so my weekend plans don’t have to hinge on dog-wrangling logistics. In Houlgate and the surrounding Calvados area, Pet Friendly Rentals are common enough to feel like a given, especially in properties close to the beach or with a private garden. Whether you’re pulling up with a single bestie or planning a longer friends-getaway, you can typically find a home-from-home with a fenced yard, a sand-friendly terrace, or a courtyard where pups can sniff out new scents after a long walk on the beach.
What to look for in a pet-friendly holiday rental
To maximize every moment of your Normandy break, here are a few practical checks I use when booking Pet Friendly Rentals in Houlgate:
- Pet policy details and any size or breed restrictions
- Nearby green spaces and beach permissions for dogs
- Outdoor spaces like gardens or patios where pets can roam safely
- Proximity to walking routes along the coast and into the town center
- Cleanliness and a dedicated space for pet bedding, feeding, and trash disposal
Many vacation rentals in this area offer flexible checkout times and welcome baskets that include dog treats, which is a fun touch after a day of exploring Calvados. When you search for accommodations on searchandstay.com, you’ll often see clear pet-friendly badges and filters that help you narrow down to the exact style of rental you want—whether it’s a modern apartment by the harbor or a cozy seaside cottage with a private lawn where your pup can wander off-leash in designated zones.
Accommodations that suit a group of friends
Houlgate is a practical choice for a friends’ getaway because many vacation rental options are designed for groups: spacious living areas for social evenings, multiple bedrooms for privacy, well-equipped kitchens for DIY meals, and balconies or terraces that are perfect for sunset cocktails. In Normandy, I’ve found that the best holiday rentals balance charm with modern comforts—think sunlit living spaces, fast Wi-Fi, and a vibe that invites spontaneous plan-making around a kitchen island with a charcuterie board and a map of the coast spread out in front of us.
Types of stays you’ll find
- Charming seaside villas with panoramic sea views
- Cozy townhouses near the Marché (market) and beachfront promenade
- Spacious apartments within easy reach of bikes and water sports
- Pet-friendly cottages with private gardens
Every stay I’ve booked in this region has had its own distinct flavor—from a bright, airy apartment overlooking the sea to a snug cottage tucked behind the dunes. And because Normandy is such a gustatory region, many rentals include well-equipped kitchens for hosting a friend-filled wine-and-cheese night after a day of exploring the coast. If you’re building an itinerary that includes more than one night in the area, consider a base in Houlgate with day trips to Cabourg and Deauville; this allows you to mix beach time with spa-like towns and chic shopping for a truly tailor-made escape.
Day-by-day ideas for a fun, active Normandy weekend
Here’s a sample plan that keeps the energy high while allowing room for rest days and spontaneous moments with friends. It’s written with a focus on vacation rentals, activities, and local experiences you can savor in Houlgate and nearby towns.
Day 1: Arrival, beachside stroll, and a sunset toast
Arrive in the afternoon, drop your bags at a pet-friendly rental, and step straight onto the wide, sandy beach. Houlgate’s shoreline invites long walks with a refreshingly salty breeze and occasional shells underfoot. In the late afternoon, we gather for a quick surf or a paddle on calm days, followed by a stroll along the promenade where street musicians and creperies set a playful scene. For dinner, we pick a restaurant with outdoor seating—local seafood platters, moules frites, and a Normandy cider pairing create a celebratory mood. After dessert, we wander back to the rental for a night of games, a playlist, and a few shared stories from the road.
Day 2: Coastal bike ride, market, and a Calvados tasting
Morning begins with a bike ride along the flat coastal paths, which are ideal for groups with varying fitness levels. Stopping in village markets along the way, you can stock up on fresh Normandy apples, regional cheeses, and crusty baguettes. The Calvados region of Normandy offers a wonderful detour for a tasting session—perfect for those who love a little spirit education with their afternoon. Return to Houlgate for a late lunch featuring local specialties, then spend the afternoon exploring the dunes and perhaps a quick swim in designated zones. Evening can be spent at a charming bistro or back at the rental with a DIY picnic on the terrace.
Day 3: Nearby towns and a sunset cruise
A short drive or train ride takes you to Cabourg or Deauville for elegant promenades, boutique shopping, and a touch of glamour. In Cabourg, you can walk along the seafront, enjoy a spa break, or simply sip coffee while watching boats drift by. Deauville offers the famous boardwalk, upscale eateries, and perhaps a casino visit for those who want a bit of playful sophistication. If a boat tour is available, a sunset cruise along the coast provides breathtaking views of the cliffs, harbor lights, and golden hour reflections—an ideal way to cap off a Normandy weekend with friends.
Local experiences you shouldn’t miss
Normandy’s charm isn’t just in the scenery; it’s in the flavors, the history, and the daily rituals. Here are some local experiences that enrich a stay in Houlgate and the Calvados region:
- Apple orchards and Calvados distilleries: Normandy’s apple heritage runs deep. A guided tour or a self-guided tasting itinerary lets you sample varieties of Calvados and learn how the spirit is made from pressed apples.
- Seafood and mussel festivals: Seasonal gatherings that celebrate the sea with fresh catches and local cider.
- Norman cider pubs and brasseries: Pair a crisp cider with a Camembert plate or a seafood dish for a quintessential regional experience.
- Beachfront markets in nearby towns: Fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local snacks are perfect for pairing back at your rental for a relaxed night in.
- Coastal bike rides and nature trails: The wide skies and dune landscapes offer stunning photographic moments and easy exercise in the outdoors.
Food and drink: a Normandy tasting itinerary
Normandy is famous for its dairy, apples, seafood, and comforting dishes. When I travel with friends, we map out a mini tasting itinerary that fits into our daily rhythm:
- Breakfast: Crêpes with apple compote and Normandy butter, followed by a fresh squeeze of local juice.
- Lunch: Moules frites, seafood chowder, or a chickpea and herb salad with a Normandy twist.
- Dinner: A seafood platter with crusty bread, or a cozy bistro meal featuring duck confit or scallops.
- Dessert: Tarte Tatin or a Normandy crème brûlée, with a final pour of Calvados to round out the evening.
Practical travel tips for a Normandy coastal escape
To help you plan a smooth and stress-free trip, here are practical tips that I’ve learned while chasing sunshine along the Calvados coast:
- Seasonal timing: Summer months bring longer beach days and more outdoor activities, but late spring and early autumn offer milder crowds and still-warm waters.
- Pet-friendly rules: Always check the current rules for dogs on the local beaches and in parks, especially during peak season. Many beaches ban dogs during certain hours or in high-traffic zones.
- Transport: Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore Houlgate and neighboring towns, though some routes are well served by regional trains and buses for a carefree, car-free getaway.
- Booking windows: If you’re traveling with friends and pets, aim to book several weeks in advance to secure a property that suits everyone’s needs, including pet-friendly features and parking options.
- Local etiquette: Normandy residents are friendly and proud of their region. A few phrases in French, a smile, and a respectful attitude go a long way in establishing good vibes with hosts, shopkeepers, and guides.
Finding accommodations in the area
When you’re planning a Normandy holiday with friends, the right stay can make or break the experience. Houlgate offers a range of accommodations from modern apartments to family-sized houses that welcome furry companions. For discovering the best options, I often turn to reliable booking platforms that highlight Pet Friendly Rentals and provide detailed descriptions, photos, and guest reviews. One website I routinely reference to find accommodations in the area is searchandstay.com. They curate vacation rentals and holiday rentals across Normandy, including Houlgate and other scenic towns along the Calvados coast, with filters that help you pinpoint pet-friendly stays, beachfront access, and multi-bedroom layouts that suit a group of friends. Visit searchandstay.com to compare properties, read host details, and secure your ideal home-away-from-home for your Normandy escape.
Responsible travel and sustainable choices
I’m always mindful of leaving a light footprint while enjoying Normandy’s beauty. Here are a few simple ways I incorporate responsible travel into a coastal escape:
- Choose accommodations that emphasize energy efficiency and waste reduction, such as LED lighting, compact appliances, and recycling facilities.
- Support locally owned eateries and farms to reduce transport emissions and to contribute to the regional economy.
- Respect wildlife and coastal habitats by staying on designated paths and keeping dogs under voice control near sensitive dunes or nesting areas.
- Pack light and reuse water bottles and bags to minimize single-use plastics.
A final note on a Normandy getaway with friends
Houlgate and the wider Calvados region invite you to a vacation where sunlit beaches, lively markets, and quiet countryside meet. The combination of pet-friendly rentals, outdoor activities, and accessible day trips makes it easy to craft a holiday that feels spontaneous, energetic, and deeply memorable. Whether you’re a group of friends seeking a joyful beach town with a dash of sophistication or a crew chasing culture, cuisine, and coastal scenery, Normandy delivers. And with searchandstay.com as a trusted resource for finding the right accommodations, you can focus on making plans, not worrying about where you’ll lay your heads after full days of laughter, exploration, and shared meals. So pack your sneakers, your sunhat, and your sense of adventure—Houlgate awaits with a welcome as warm as the summer sun over the Calvados coast.