The horse, Deauville's favourite animal

Yes, Deauville does have two racecourses! The Deauville-La Touques racecourse shares the limelight with the Clairefontaine racecourse. Located right in the town centre, the Deauville-La Touques racecourse is very easy to get to on foot from the town centre. This racecourse specialises in flat racing (without jumps) in France. In fact, this is where you can attend the largest number of races in the country. The racecourse covers 75 hectares, including 20 hectares of track, on the banks of the river Touques. The total capacity of the site is 10,000 spectators! Horse racing takes place here for more than half the year. Every day, more than 500 horses take to the track for training on this impressive structure, which was built in 1863. All the facilities on site are designed to satisfy a demanding clientele. There's a restaurant and a bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail or a fine meal while watching the show.

Clairefontaine racecourse lies further west of the centre of Deauville. Trotting, flat and jump races are all held at this racecourse. The racecourse is open during the summer months, from late June to late October. Here, too, you'll find a host of amenities and services. There are several bars and restaurants, as well as children's play areas for visitors. Admission charge, free for under-18s.

Throughout the year, Deauville offers a range of events celebrating the horse. Here is our selection:

• Horse racing, the season runs from July to October.
• International Polo Championship in August at the Deauville-La Touques racecourse.
• The August Yearling Sale (thoroughbred foals) dedicated to English thoroughbreds.
• Dressage and show jumping competitions at the Pôle International du Cheval de Longines-Deauville. Events take place throughout the year.

The Hôtel de La Côte Fleurie is a 5-minute walk from the Deauville-La Touques racecourse! This small hotel is a charming address in the heart of the seaside resort of Deauville. The 2-star establishment features unique stained-glass windows and offers spacious, well-appointed rooms. All rooms have flat-screen TVs. A hearty breakfast featuring local produce can be served in your room on request. Rates are still reasonable for the capital of Normandy chic. The Côte Fleurie hotel also has family rooms for 2 adults and 2 children.

👉 When to come and watch the horse races in Deauville?

In Deauville, horse races and equestrian competitions are held almost all year round! The liveliest period is summer, with its sunny days. There are plenty of races from July to September. In summer, up to 750 horses a day are in training at the Deauville-La Touques racecourse.

👉 How do I get to Deauville to watch the horse races?

Deauville is well served by train (Trouville-Deauville station with its typical half-timbered buildings). From Paris, head for Saint-Lazare station, and allow 2 hours 30 minutes for the journey. By plane, the commune is linked to a number of destinations via Deauville-Normandie airport. Private aviation and flying club. By road, Paris is 200 kilometres away, a journey time of just under 2? hours. Once in the heart of the resort, the sites dedicated to horses are easily accessible.

👉 Where can I park near the horse-related sites in Deauville?

Please note that parking in the heart of the resort is subject to a charge. There are a few underground car parks. The more remote sites have free car parks. For trouble-free parking, come early in the summer!