Fontaine-le-Dun

CityNormandy, France

Fontaine-le-Dun is a CITY in Normandy, France.

Fontaine-le-Dun is a serene village in Normandy, France, nestled in the lush, rolling countryside of the Seine-Maritime department. This charming destination offers a peaceful escape with its traditional half-timbered houses, verdant meadows, and the gentle flow of the Dun River. Travelers can explore the nearby Alabaster Coast's dramatic cliffs and pebble beaches, visit the historic Château de Fontaine-le-Dun, or wander through local apple orchards and cider farms. The region is rich in World War II history, with the D-Day beaches and memorials just a short drive away. Fontaine-le-Dun is perfect for those seeking authentic French rural life, scenic hiking and cycling trails, and a taste of Normandy's renowned gastronomy, including Camembert cheese, fresh seafood, and Calvados. Its tranquil atmosphere and friendly locals make it an ideal base for discovering the broader Normandy region.

Best time to visit Fontaine-le-Dun

The best time to visit is from May to September when weather is mild and sunny (15-25°C). June and July offer long daylight hours and vibrant local festivals. Spring (April-May) brings blooming apple blossoms and fewer crowds. Autumn (September-October) is ideal for harvest festivals and cider tasting. Winter (November-March) can be chilly and rainy, but offers a cozy, quiet atmosphere.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Cool 8-14°C, autumn colors

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Beautiful foliage, quiet

Know before you go

Getting there

CDG

Paris Charles de Gaulle

International

180 km away

BVA

Paris Beauvais-Tillé

International

120 km away

LEH

Le Havre Octeville

Domestic

70 km away

Getting around

"The village is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Car rental is recommended for visiting nearby attractions like the Alabaster Coast and D-Day beaches. Local buses connect to Dieppe and other towns, but service is infrequent. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance. Train stations are in Dieppe (20 km) and Rouen (60 km) for regional travel. Cycling routes are well-marked and scenic."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels and cafes; free in some public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM from Orange, SFR, or Bouygues from €5 at Dieppe or Rouen

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; minor scam risk only in tourist-heavy areas like markets.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; minor scam risk only in tourist-heavy areas like markets.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Fontaine-le-Dun is very safe with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so keep valuables secure. Roads are narrow and winding; drive carefully, especially in rural areas. At night, stick to well-lit streets. The village is peaceful, but as in all of France, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded markets. Emergency services are reliable. Overall, a safe destination for solo travelers, families, and seniors."

Entry and health

Health information

"Healthcare in France is excellent. EU citizens should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for coverage. Non-EU visitors need comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies are well-stocked and easily found in nearby towns. For emergencies, dial 112. The nearest hospital with emergency services is in Dieppe, about 20 km away. Tap water is safe to drink. Ticks can be present in wooded areas; check for bites after hiking. No special vaccinations are required."

Culture

Local customs

"Normans are polite and appreciate a greeting with 'Bonjour' when entering shops. Dress is casual but neat; avoid overly beachwear in villages. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Dining etiquette includes keeping hands on the table, not in lap. It's customary to say 'Merci' and 'Au revoir' when leaving. Sunday mornings are quiet; many shops are closed."
French (official)OccitanGermanArabicPortugueseFrench

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15 | a three-course meal for one ~$15-25

Hotels

$80-120 | mid-range hotel double room per night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ticket ~$2

Cost notes

Prices lower than Paris; budget options available in hostels and gîtes.

Timezone

Europe/Paris
Local time 06:49

More facts

Population

1,025

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Fontaine, Fontaine-le-Dun

CityRuralHistoricHikingCulinaryFamily-FriendlyCoastal