Cabourg, France – In a logistical feat planned down to the minute, the Cabourg casino is preparing for a complete relocation to its new, state-of-the-art facility without interrupting service to players. The move, slated for either April 23rd or 29th – the final date still being finalized – marks a significant investment in the popular Normandy seaside resort and a rare instance of a municipality directly funding the construction of a brand-new casino building. This ambitious project aims to modernize the gaming experience while preserving Cabourg’s reputation as a premier destination for entertainment.
For decades, visitors have enjoyed the thrill of the casino within a historic building dating back to 1907, conveniently located next to the iconic Grand Hôtel and offering stunning views of the coastline. But, the town of Cabourg made the uncommon decision to build a completely new casino at the entrance to the city, a move designed to enhance the visitor experience and adapt to evolving gaming preferences. The new building, spanning 2,000 square meters, represents a substantial upgrade in space and amenities.
Casino director Stéphane Gilquin is orchestrating the complex operation, emphasizing the commitment to uninterrupted service. “We never close a casino! Never! So there will be no closure,” Gilquin stated, explaining that the plan involves either a slightly earlier closing time on the final night at the vintage location or a slightly delayed opening at the new facility. This dedication to continuous operation underscores the casino’s importance to both tourists and the local economy.
The move itself presents a considerable challenge, involving the transfer of 75 slot machines from the existing casino to the new location. To ensure a smooth transition, the Partouche Group, which operates the casino, will be drawing on resources from its other 44 casinos across Europe, particularly those in the northwest of France. “It’s a significant challenge, but our teams are prepared for it. The Partouche Group is accustomed to these types of operations,” Gilquin assured.
The new casino promises a more modern and expansive gaming environment. The gaming area will be double the size of the current space, featuring an increased number of slot machines and new gaming tables. The facility will similarly boast 25 newly installed slot machines and tables prior to the full transfer. The project is also expected to create new employment opportunities, with the casino’s staff increasing from 51 to 55 permanent positions.
The decision to build a new casino rather than renovate the existing structure reflects a broader vision for Cabourg’s future. Mayor Emmanuel Porcq described the new building as a “soucoupe volante” (flying saucer), noting its modern design complements the adjacent aquatic complex. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Cabourg’s identity while offering a contemporary experience for visitors. According to Actu.fr, the city officially handed over the keys to the new building to the Partouche Group in May 2025, signifying a major milestone in the project.
The current casino, while cherished for its history and location, had begun to show its age. Gilquin noted that the old casino often attracted visitors who weren’t necessarily there to gamble, but rather to admire the architecture or use the facilities. The new, larger space is intended to attract a more focused gaming clientele.
The construction project began in April 2024 and has progressed rapidly, with the building now nearing completion. Gilquin is currently focused on finalizing the interior design and securing the necessary safety certifications before the grand opening. He holds daily meetings with the construction team to ensure every detail is perfect. France Bleu reports that the move is planned to grab place overnight, minimizing disruption to the casino’s operations.
As Cabourg prepares to unveil its new casino, the town is poised to further solidify its position as a leading tourist destination on the Normandy coast. The project represents a significant investment in the future of the resort and a commitment to providing visitors with a world-class entertainment experience. The next step will be the final inspection by the safety commission and the confirmation of the official opening date, either April 23rd or 29th.
Stay tuned for further updates on the grand opening of the new Cabourg casino and its impact on the local tourism industry. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and excitement about this exciting development in the comments below.
