Fishing trawler in Trouville, Normandy by Hilke Maunder

The fishing harbour of Trouville, nestled at the mouth of the picturesque Touque in Normandy, is a lively and charming place that combines fishing tradition, culinary richness and the charm of a relaxed seaside resort.

The heart of the harbour is undoubtedly the Poissonnerie, a lively fish market that showcases the fresh maritime splendour of the region. Here, the fish crates are piled high with gleaming oysters, mussels, crabs and a variety of other seafood. The scent of salty sea air and fresh fish fills the air as busy fishermen and traders eagerly display their wares. The Poissonnerie is a melting pot of local cuisine, a place where the bounty of the sea lands straight from the fishing boat to the table: the finest feasting on the quayside!

Some of the fishing boats are moored there with huge trawls, which go out into the English Channel and further out into the Atlantic every day to find herring and mackerel, cod and sea bream.

Along the promenade, cosy cafés and restaurants invite you to sample regional delicacies while you let your gaze wander over the calm waters.

Trouville is not only a fishing harbour, but also a popular seaside resort. The fine sandy beach stretches along the coast, lined with elegant villas from the Belle Époque. Families enjoy sunny days by the sea while children build sandcastles and the sound of the waves mingles with scraps of words and laughter. The beach is bordered by the Planches promenade, which is more popular than its counterpart in Trouville's luxurious sister Deauville.