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• Sand-yachting in the bay of Somme
• Things to do
• Fresh sea air… everywhere

At the farthest end of Fort-Mahon’s dunes lies the entrance to one of the most beautiful bays in the world: the bay of Somme. And what better way to explore its beauty than up close and personal with its glorious sand. With nothing to propel you but the fresh sea air, climb aboard your land yacht and relish the feeling of the crisp wind as it rushes through your hair. A thrill that even the most unsporty can enjoy. And it’s all just a short hop away.

Sand-yachting in the Somme bay  ̶  25 km of pure freedom

A wide-open beach caressed by the foamy sea and with an unbroken stretch of sand that goes as far as the eye can see: 15.5 miles to be exact! It was here, on the vast shores of northern France in the early 20th century, that land sailing was born. And it’s no surprise really. At low tide, when the Channel retreats between Le Crotoy and Fort Mahon , a magnificent beach (almost) as flat as a crêpe is revealed.

A sight completed by a lovely westerly breeze, warm sunshine and a horizon that stays tantalising out of reach no matter how quickly the wheels turn…

Pure exhilaration

Under the watchful eye of an instructor and without a single obstacle in view, get comfy in the low-ride seat of your stable, three-wheeled yacht and satisfy your need for speed. And with these training yachts capable of reaching up to 30 mph, you certainly won’t be disappointed! This means you’ll need to dress appropriately with the head-to-toe waterproof clothing provided (handy when you go full throttle through the water ‘pools’); just bring your own sunglasses and gloves. First, the ever-impatient instructor will teach you how to rig the yacht and master the paddle. Then, with hands firmly on the sheet, let the breeze whisk you away to the farthest reaches of the beach. As free as the wind and with all your fears forgotten, this is what they call ‘the thrill of the ride’ .

Local's tip

Head to the Buvette de la Plage, a small restaurant on the Saint-Valery-sur-Somme beach. After a walk along the docks or on the way back from a stroll through the streets of the medieval town, enjoy a break with friends on the terrace and admire the stunning view over the bay. As the sun goes down, evening drinks take on a whole new dimension.

Useful info

• Fort-Mahon Tourist Office
• Ozone, Maison de la Voile
• Mer & Rencontres
• Eole Club Berck

555 Avenue de la Plage

F-80120 FORT-MAHON-PLAGE

Tel : + 33 (0)3 22 23 36 00

www.fort-mahon-plage-tourisme.com

Base Nautique – Boulevard Maritime Nord

F-80790 FORT-MAHON-PLAGE

Tel: +33 (0)3 22 23 42 60

Base nautique

F-80120 QUEND-PLAGE-LES-PINS

Tel : +33 (0)3 22 23 37 92

4 Digue Nicolas II

F-59240 DUNKERQUE

Tel : + 33 (0)3 28 29 13 80

Esplanade Parmentier

F-62600 BERCK

Tel : + 33 (0)3 21 09 04 55

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9 places to go sand yachting in normandy, during your next vacation, practice sand yachting in normandy   here are 9 beaches for sand yachting in normandy.

With sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, Normandy is the ideal region for sand yachting.   The so-called “ship of the sands” was already used several millennia ago by the Egyptians!   It was Europeans who made it a hobby more than a century ago.   Between the wheeled car and the small sailboat, sand yachting in Normandy is an activity that quickly offers feelings of freedom and fun.   At ground level, you use the force and direction of the wind to gain speed and move.   This very accessible water sport does not require any particular physical condition.

1.   Landing Beaches

Crédit Photo : Shutterstock – photoneye

Sword Beach, Juno Beach, Gold Beach, Omaha Beach, Utah Beach ... Welcome to the Landing beaches, rich in history and emotion!   Here, you can combine the practice of sand yachting and visiting the museums dedicated to this military operation of the   Second World War   .

Also Read: 18 Most Beautiful Beaches in Normandy

Located on a protected natural site, the kilometers of Omaha Beach and Utah Beach are ideal for nautical leisure.   Arromanches-les-Bains is also one of the unmissable beaches for sand yachting in Normandy.   Nicknamed Gold Beach, it still bears the traces of the large artificial port which welcomed the Allied troops during the liberation of 1944. Providers offer sessions of two to three hours throughout the year.

2. Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer

Credit photo: Shutterstock - Christian Musat

Located very close to Dieppe on the Côte d'Albâtre, the sandy beach of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer provides easy access to sand yachting, especially when coming from the Paris region.   Dieppe is indeed just over two hours from   Paris   .   Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer is the most imposing beach in Seine-Maritime.

Just after the tide, the sea recedes, gradually creating a huge race track.   All year round, depending on the tide times, two-hour sessions are offered by local clubs.

3. Consider the Sciotot

Photo Credit: Facebook - Sciotot Sailing and Wind Activity Center

Among the Cotentin beaches, that of Sciotot is a perfect spot for sand yachting in Normandy.   Between the Flamanville and Rozel capes, it is part of the commune of Les Pieux in the Manche.   Its stretch of sand is four kilometers long.   Its wild aspect and its size make it an excellent playground for all, from the age of 8 years.

Did you know that in 2019, the newspaper   Le Monde   ranked Sciotot fifth   most beautiful beach in Europe   ?   All the more reason to consider a nautical leisure stay!

4. Trouville-sur-Mer

Photo credit: Facebook - Trouville sur Mer Tourist Office

To practice sand yachting in Normandy in a mythical place, you have to come to Trouville-sur-Mer.   Located very close to Deauville, this seaside resort is the oldest in the region.   Its large sandy beach stretches for 1.2 kilometers.   It combines nautical leisure, relaxation and history.

In Trouville, you can not only try sand yachting, but also discover Beach Karts!   These small remote-controlled vessels take up the codes of land yachting, on various routes.   Finally, children's clubs and facilities allow the whole family to have fun at the same time.

5. Jullouville

Photo credit: Facebook - Jullouville town hall

Located 8 kilometers from Granville, the large Jullouville beach stretches from Saint-Pair-sur-Mer to Carolles for approximately 2 kilometers.   Accessible by stroller, it is above all a family beach.   Its numerous animations in season also help to delight young and old alike.

At low tide, it becomes the nerve center of shore fishing and sand yachting.   The sailing base of Jullouville is also THE spot in the south of the Channel for this activity.   Notice to thrill seekers: the beach is open to the bay, which gives it exposure to winds conducive to speed gain!

Crédit photo : Shutterstock – flydragon

Between Caen and Deauville, the "romantic beach" stretches over almost 4 kilometers of fine sand.   Visiting Cabourg will give you the opportunity to practice sand yachting in Normandy, in a unique setting.   The Grand Hôtel Belle Époque   , the casino and the Marcel Proust promenade are all attractions that can be observed from the beach.

The seaside resort also has the Family Plus Label: clubs specially dedicated to children are installed on the beach.   If you come with your family, you can let your children have fun during your initiation to your new favorite hobby!   What a pleasure also to reward his sporting efforts by eating an ice cream at the end of the afternoon on the longest pedestrian promenade in Europe.

7. Ouistreham

Photo credit: Facebook - Sweet Home Cabourg

Head for Ouistreham Riva-Bella beach!   Labeled a 3-star Nautical Station, the   Pearl of the Côte de Nacre   is perfect for lovers of marine sports.   Among the range of possible activities, sand yachting is a must.

Before setting off on the sand, take the time to observe the changing landscapes, capped by the dunes that separate you from the city…

8. Bretteville-Sur-Ay

Photo credit: Facebook - Ay-ole sand yachting center

Are you looking for a huge, wild and untouched place for tourism?   Welcome to Bretteville Beach!   Ten kilometers of beach between the two harbors of Saint-Germain-sur-Ay and Surville, a view of the island of   Jersey   : yachting aficionados will be delighted!   The small town of Bretteville-sur-Ay is located on the D650, which locals also call the "tourist route".

From Cherbourg to Coutances, it runs along the Normandy coast and smells of holidays, the sun and the hot sand (in summer!).   Taking this legendary route will take you to several sites of tourist interest ... and many sand yachting spots.   Are you ready for the Normandy sand yachting tour?

9. The Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel

Crédit Photo : Shutterstock – 365_visuals

To practice sand yachting in Normandy in a mythical place, nothing better than the bay of Mont Saint-Michel.   Very close to Mont Saint-Michel, on Hirel's shore, you will be introduced to the pleasures of sand yachting.

The session takes place in two stages: you will approach the sand yachting from a theoretical point of view during a briefing, then once the safety rules are understood, you can let yourself slip into this boat.   Notice to thrill seekers!

Practical information for sand yachting in Normandy

The activity.

Sand yachting is a hobby where you seek both to gain speed and to steer your craft, propelled by the force of the wind.   You quickly manage to control your little ship and gain a very pleasant feeling of freedom.   The tank can be   single or two-seater   .   The tandem version is particularly suitable for taking a child on their lap or for feeling reassured by the presence of an instructor.

The conditions of practice

The sand yachting is   accessible to everyone   , from 7 to 77 years old.   It is best done at low tide, when the beach is huge and you draw lines on the still wet sand.   A minimum force 3 wind is required to propel and steer.   The ideal is also to ride on a very compact sandbank.

The equipment

For a successful session, bring   warm clothes   (sweater, fleece), an old pair of closed shoes, sunglasses and gloves.   Generally, clubs provide helmets and waterproof clothing (coveralls, waxed).   Also think about your change of clothes!

So what are you waiting for to make sand yachting in Normandy?

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Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

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Bertrand Lambert has left a legacy to be proud of. The five-times world sand-yachting champion has made this discipline an iconic sport of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage! No wonder the Manche Watersports Centre has been named after him.

Because the Opal Coast’s southern beaches are ideal for sand-yachting, Le Touquet regularly hosts national and international competitions. In 2006, for example, the world championship took place here, offering a rare spectacle far too good to miss under any circumstances!

A competition setting

Top athletes can perfect their skills in this optimal environment. So the competitions offer the perfect opportunity to admire their performance. Like in April 1991, for example, when Bertrand Lambert smashed the world speed record by reaching 151.55km/hour! Both world champions, his daughters Charlotte and Clémence have followed in his footsteps. What about you? Fancy trying for the next champion title? Click here for further information about the Bertrand Lambert Manche Watersports Centre

Sand-yachting, try it once and you’ll be hooked

At low tide, vast stretches of the beautiful 7km beach of fine sand are exposed, offering the ideal terrain for hitting those top speeds aboard one of Le Touquet’s elegant sand-yachts. All it takes is a favourable wind to see the white sails bearing the famous caddie, hurtle at full speed across the sand.

With the wind in your hair, you can try your hand at the helm of this sand vehicle gliding along with the wind as its only power source. The watersports centre proposes sand-yachting lessons and courses, and even one-to-one tuition for beginners from the age of 8 years. You’ll quickly learn to handle the vehicle and start enjoying the thrill from the very first session in complete safety. Just what you need to build confidence and, basically, get yourself hooked on this new experience.

Seizing the moment

48th Enduropale races of Le Touquet-Pas-de-Calais

Seashore magic

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Sand yachting in Mont St Michel Bay

Activity - holidays & weekends in hirel.

Avel proposes to introduce you and make you discover the pleasures of yachting in the bay of Mont Saint Michel, on the site of Hirel 15 minutes from Saint Malo. This outdoor activity can feel strong sensations of his grip. It facilitates the discovery of the joys of navigation on land and is aimed at a wide audience. Learning the steering yachting acquired quickly and develops the desire to evolve and discover the strike hirel throughout its range (fauna and flora). The activity is intended as a public confirmed that neophyte in the world of sailing, such as adult child (8 years) can evolve only on this type of support for the young there must be a two-seater. The sensation of navigation, changes with the wind element, while staying dry is felt from the first moments of practice. The practice of yachting is a sport fun, enjoyable to practice with family and friends. We are open every day from 13h to 19h reservation. Hazing last either 1 hour or 1 hour 30 minutes or 2 hours. To make a reservation please send us an email specifying the day time slot and the number of persons wishing to make an introduction to yachting. By phone from 10h to 12h at the following numbers. It is best to book at least one week in advance. We remain at your disposal to answer all your desires, sporting the Team avel. Fave johann 0603271876. Favron aurelien 0681245233. http://www.avelchars voile. Com-a- [email protected].

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10 1 Rutuja Jouy-en-Josas, France July 2020 Amazing experience It was a lot of fun to go around the beach in the sand yacht with my friends. The instructors are good and help you at every step of the experience! Must do. Manager's reply

10 1 Elizabeth Tallahassee, United States June 2019 Amazing time sailing across the sand! Sand carting was one of the highlights of our European vacation! It is easy to learn and super fun! Very exhilarating! Worth every penny! Manager's reply

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Make someone happy with the GIFT VOUCHERS !

AVEL is a sand yacht center on the coast of Brittany that welcomes you in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel on the strand of Hirel.

AVEL proposes to make you discover the pleasures of the sand yachting in the bay of Mont St Michel , on the town of Hirel, 15 min from St Malo. This outdoor activity can give you strong sensations as soon as you start it.

The way how to drive a sand yacht can be acquired very quickly, and will develop the desire to discover the whole strand of Hirel, its fauna and its flora. This activity is well suited for both novice and experienced audiences in the sailing world, adults and children (8 years old) in single-seater. For the youngest, two-seaters are also available.

The practice of sand yachting is a fun sport, pleasant to practice with family and friends.

We are open every day from 10am to 7pm upon reservation. The instructors , Aurélien FAVRON and Johann FAVE, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sports, will be glad to welcome you in the Avel center  to make you discover their passion.

Here is a great idea for a present : offer gift vouchers and buy them online Avel Team

The two-seater gives the opportunity to kids from 5 to 10 years and disabled people to practice...

One hour session for 20 €. By taking this session, you can discover the basics of the...

The sponsoring promotes products, brands, the reputation and the image of the company.

The sand yacht center AVEL is very proud to present you its sponsors.

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Practicing the sand yachting, making the sand yacht for the first time in Normandy, a wind of freedom! This sport is for young and old. Sport rich in emotions. A simple learning and it leaves for a good dose of sensation guaranteed ...

Eolia Normandie (Omaha Beach)

Sport rich in emotions, the sand yachting is the flagship activity of Eolia Normandy. A simple learning and it's left for a good deal of guaranteed sensation where you learn to play with wind and sandbanks on the 8 km of Omaha Beach. Available in adult sizes (29 single-seater tanks) as well as in child size (14 single-seater tanks), the sand yachting is the guarantee of a good part of pleasure and relaxation at low or high speed according to the weather and the desires . Distance from Residence: 17 Km  Driving Time: 20 Minutes  Activity: Tugboat

Nautical Recreation Center Asnelles

Distance from Residence: 45 Km  Driving Time: 44 Minutes  Activity: Tugboat Several formulas with specific services, to practice the sand yachting safely with maximum pleasure. Formulas adapted to individuals and groups  Competitive rates  Quality equipment and infrastructure, and a pedagogical approach and support for the sea classes

Sailing School Of Courseulles Sur Mer

You like the sensations of speed and you want to take a breath of fresh air. It is possible and throughout the year! Objective of the session: to be able to control and direct its sailing yacht safely. Initiation in the form of course in order to see the various turns and maneuvers so as to acquire the first sensations, in total safety. Our operation: One tank per person OR One tank for 2 persons (shared tank). This less intensive operation allows for rest and observation times for people. It also allows us to host a group of 25 to 30 people in one session. Distance from Residence: 48 Km  Driving Time: 51 Minutes  Activity: Tugboat

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Avel Sand yachting proposes to initiate you and make you discover the pleasures of sand yachting in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel, on the site of Hirel 15 minutes from Saint-Malo, 10 minutes from Cancale and of Dol-de-Bretagne. This outdoor activity allows you to feel strong sensations as soon as you get started. It facilitates the discovery of the joys of navigation on land and is aimed at a wide audience. Learning to pilot the sand yacht is acquired quickly and develops the desire to evolve and discover the Hirel shore. The activity is aimed at both neophytes and confirmed audiences, in the world of sailing, adults and children (8 years old). French Land Sailing School label.

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The 18 Must Do’s and Must Sees in the Somme Bay

The Somme Bay has many not-to-be-missed locations as well as activities set up by enthusiastic people. For a memorable stay in the area, I made a list that will make everyone happy in terms of must do’s and must sees in the Somme Bay.

If you are in a hurry, here are my favorites in a nutshell:

• The absolute must do: The small train of the Somme Bay
• Surrounded by nature: Meet the seals of the bay
• A diverse cultural heritage: The city of Abbeville

1) The Somme Bay Railway Line

In the 70s, enthusiastic locals decided to found the “ Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme ” association (The Somme Bay Railway Line Association) in order to preserve their endangered rail heritage .

Ever since that day, they kept restoring and preserving the railway lines and the steam locomotives of the bay to offer passengers several itineraries from Le Crotoy to Cayeux-sur-Mer.

The most emblematic route : for an hour, enjoy a trip on the railway line between Le Crotoy and Saint-Valery and travel back in time thanks to the renovated wagons.

🥰 We like : the different itineraries and the numerous train stations

😍 We love : the renovated wagons and locomotives

💰 Price : €18 per adult for a trip from Le Crotoy to Saint-Valery with a guide

Tickets, time slots and itineraries of the small train of the Somme Bay

2) Visit the Old Town of Saint-Valery

Saint-Valery is not only a nice port with a pretty view but also a must see site steeped in history .

Take a walk in the medieval streets of the old town and discover the Harold Tower, the city walls and the Jeanne d’Arc Gate , which is named after The Maid of Orleans who walked through that gate when the British took her to Rouen.

In the upper town, you will get to see a splendid panorama of the bay and the roofs as well as the port. William the Conqueror departed from this exact port when he went to England.

Here’s a tip from the locals: if you walk just a little further from the old town, you will find the Chapelle des Marins (The Sailor’s Chapel), which offers one of the best views of the bay.

🥰 We like : the well-preserved monuments

😍 We love : the locations steeped with history

💰 Price : free! Just enjoy your walk around the city.

3) Boat Tour

Quai Perrée, 80230 Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

What could be better than discovering the bay from the sea ?

The Forest captains (father and son) offer boat tours aboard the Commandant Charcot , their boat, which can accommodate up to 98 passengers.

Meeting point: the port of Saint-Valery where you can buy your tickets and wait for departure.

From the sea, there is a new look on the docks of Saint-Valery and the façades of the beautiful villas. You can admire the beauty of the bay while the captain Forest –the father– a former fisherman, tells you everything he knows about the history of the port and the bay.

🥰 We like : the possibility to privatize a smaller 12-seats boat named the P’tit Charcot

😍 We love : captain Forest’s stories

💰 Price : €12 for 40 minutes at sea, €16 for 1 hour and 15 min during the sunset

Information on the Commandant Charcot boat tours

4) Meet the seals of the bay

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Arnaud Lengignon (@decouvronslabaiedesomme)

Did you know that the biggest French seal colony has settled down in the Somme Bay?

From the land, by foot or in a kayak: you have various possibilities to get a glimpse of the animals without scaring them off.

The best would be to contact Picardie Nature , the association that takes care of them, or to book a hike with one of the numerous guides who offer to see them.

🥰 We like : there is often no age restriction for the hikes, everyone in the family is welcome

😍 We love : the enthusiastic guides will share everything there is to know about seals with you

💰 Price : around €15 per adult for a hike, around €30 for a canoe/kayak tour (prices vary depending on the guides)

Information and Booking info to see the seals of the Somme Bay (site in French)

5) Fishing on foot in Le Crotoy

It’s time to put on your boots!

Starting from Le Crotoy, you will be able to walk in the bay when the tide is low to look for scallops (also known as “ hénon ” in the area). You will need to scrape the ground with your rake, shake the shells to remove the sand and bring them back with you in your bucket.

And if you weren’t so successful, you should check the fish market on Le Crotoy ‘s docks. There, five professional fishermen sell their products of the day directly to the consumers.

Be aware that there are rules and laws to follow, even for amateurs, in order to preserve the species. Take your time to do your research on them.

🥰 We like : a fun activity to do with your family

😍 We love : the fish market

💰 Price : Free, unless you decide to buy them directly from the fishermen

Information and rules about fishing on foot in the Somme Bay (site in French)

6) Hike across the bay and discover the edible plants

What if you could literally taste the Somme Bay? Arnaud and Aurore encourage you to do so.

From April to November, these two guides will offer you to hike across the bay to discover its ecosystem as well as the small plants that have adapted to the saline environment and that are now used in various local recipes.

Even though their hikes are named “hiking across the bay” and not “discovering the edible plants of the bay”, you don’t need to worry! Arnaud and Aurore will teach you everything they know about the bay itself, plants included.

🥰 We like : discovering the ecosystem of the bay

😍 We love : the great knowledge of the guides who can’t wait to share it all with you

💰 Price : around €15 per adult for a hike across the bay

Book a hike across the bay (site in French)

7) Try the Saltbush Lamb meat

In France, the AOP certification is a protected designation of origin with national requirements. It exists to ensure the quality and control of specific local products and is highly valued by consumers.

The salt-meadow lamb meat is one of these AOPs. The Somme Bay area is the only one to have obtained this certification for the salt-meadow lamb meat because it offers the best conditions to produce exceptional meat.

The lambs eat in the plains covered with vegetation half-submerged by salt water that is called salt-meadows. The meadows are also known as “ mollières ” in the area. Therefore, the meat is unique, delicious and very tasty .

You can buy it from June to January from farmers as well as in restaurants, at the butcher’s shop or supermarkets. Be careful and don’t forget to check the tags to make sure that it is really the AOP-certified meat.

🥰 We like : the shepherds’ centuries of know-how

😍 We love : the exceptional quality of the meat

Here is a list of a few Saltbush Lamb Meat producers (site in French)

8) The Bird and Nature Festival (Festival de l’Oiseau et de la Nature)

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Festival de l’Oiseau (@festivaloiseaunature)

If you are lucky enough to be in the area during the month of April, I very much recommend that you check out the program of the Bird and Nature Festival that has been taking place every year for more than 30 years already.

Many events and activities are organized such as exhibitions , commented visits in the bay , debates , conferences and wildlife movies which are broadcasted.

A photography contest takes place every year for the occasion, and the pictures are displayed on huge signs in the streets of several towns of the region. It is very pleasant to look at them when the spring comes.

🥰 We like : the variety of activities organized in the entire region

😍 We love : the possibility to participate in photography workshops at all skill levels.

💰 Price : most activities are free, except for movie broadcasts and nature outings

Information about the Bird and Nature Festival (site in French)

9) The Somme Bay House (Maison de la Baie de Somme)

D3, Le Teratu, 80230 Lanchéres

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par ✳️ Maison Baiedesomme ✳️ (@maisondelabaiesomme)

Formerly known as the Bird’s House which offered bird shows, the Somme Bay House is now an interactive museum to learn about the bay’s wildlife.

Its goal is to raise awareness , educate and preserve the biodiversity of the bay by offering an informative tour.

You will have access to six rooms, each of them dedicated to one theme in particular , in order to understand the story of the bay and its people. The museum is interactive and fun. There is also an outdoor promenade from which you can observe geese, ducks and other species that live around the pond.

🥰 We like : the interactivity of the museum

😍 We love : the museum’s shop which has many local products and books

💰 Price : €9 per adult, €6.70 per child

Information and Booking for the Somme Bay House

10) The Marquenterre Park

25 bis Chem. des Garennes, 80120 Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont

If you love birds, you should go to the Marquenterre Park to observe them in their natural habitat.

Marquenterre Park is sized 200 hectares and located in the middle of the Natural Park of the Bay . It offers a 6km promenade and has 13 observation posts to spot the birds more easily. Several trails are available for a promenade of more or less length so that everyone in the family can enjoy it.

You will be able to spot birds such as spoonbills , avocets , white storks and many more. Apart from the birds, it is also an exceptional site because of its biodiversity : plants, batrachians and insects all live there.

🥰 We like : the different promenades and loops so that everyone can enjoy the park

😍 We love : the privilege of watching the birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them

💰 Price : €10.50 per adult

Book a ticket for the Marquenterre Park (site in French)

11) Cayeux-sur-Mer

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Cayeux-sur-mer Site officiel (@cayeuxsurmer.officiel)

You can do many water sport activities like kitesurfing or other sailing activities. The town has a casino near the beach huts and you can discover the area by bike by following the bike trails.

🥰 We like : the amazing sunset on the beach and the huts

😍 We love : biking around the area

Information and activity booking in Cayeux-sur-Mer

12) La Pointe du Hourdel

La Pointe du Hourdel, 80410 Cayeux-sur-Mer

It is one of the three ports of the bay with Saint-Valery and Le Crotoy, and the best place to watch the seals from the land.

A pair of binoculars is recommended to see these animals better, and the best option is to meet a guide who will explain everything about the seals.

The pebble beach and the lighthouse make this place a must see of the bay.

🥰 We like : it’s the perfect place to watch the seals from a distance

😍 We love : the pretty lighthouse

More information on La Pointe du Hourdel (site in French)

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Travel photography 🌍 (@hashtagvoyage)

Located more to the south than Cayeux-sur-Mer, the small seaside resort of Ault is worth seeing.

Its best attraction are the beautiful cliffs on which were built the villas typical of the region. It’s possible to do nice hikes, guided or not, and to discover splendid panoramas.

Ault has more to offer than just the cliffs. There is also an ornithological reserve called the Hâble d’Ault where hundreds of birds live. It is a good alternative to bigger parks like the Marquenterre Park or Grand-Laviers.

🥰 We like : Ault’s lighthouse

😍 We love : the quietness of a human-sized seaside resort

More information about Ault (site in French)

14) Sand yachting in Fort-Mahon

Did you know that sand yachting was invented just next to the Somme Bay during the 20th century?

Between Le Crotoy and Fort-Mahon, there is a 25km-long beach that is ideal for sand yachting when the tide is low and you can see the sand.

After the peacefulness of a hike across the bay, it’s now time for action ! Do not worry, you control the speed at all times.

Several schools offer various options: initiation, sand yacht hikes, etc. You have many options!

🥰 We like : many initiation classes

😍 We love : the adrenaline you get in this exceptional setting

💰 Price : around €40 per adult for 2 hours

A few schools:

• Aéris School: information and booking (site in French)
• Eolia School: information and booking (site in French)

15) Abbey and Gardens of Valloires

D192 Lieu dit Valloires, 80120 Argoules

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Abbaye de valloires (@abbayedevalloires)

Less than 30km away from Le Crotoy, you can visit the Abbey of Valloires and its beautiful gardens.

The monument is the only complete remaining Cistercian abbey from the 18th century in France . The abbey was caught in the middle of Ponthieu’s wars between the 14th and 17th centuries and was also used as a hospital during the Second World War, even though they also hid Jewish children from German soldiers. The history of this site goes back very far.

You can visit the 8-hectare gardens all year long but the best seasons are spring and summer. If you are lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the cherry blossom tree alley that blooms around April.

In summer, they organize a Sound and Light show in the gardens, with light projections on water, walls and the abbey’s façade. It tells the history of the site through exceptional projections and narration.

🥰 We like : the Sound and Light show

😍 We love : the gardens’ beauty

💰 Price : €8 per person for a commented visit of the abbey

Information and booking for the Abbey and Gardens of Valloires (site in French)

16)  The heritage of Abbeville

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Ville d’Abbeville (@villedabbeville)

If you wish to get out of the sand for a while, why not explore the city of Abbeville and its cultural heritage ?

You can visit the Saint-Sépulcre church and its stained-glass windows made by Manessier , the Saint-Vulfran collegiate church , the Boucher de Perthes Museum or the Belfry which has been registered at the UNESCO World Heritage since 2007.

If you miss nature, the Bouvaque Park is often open, and if you miss flowers, the Emonville park is very well-kept and is located right next to the public library and the archives.

I didn’t mention a good amount of sites like the Bagatelle Castle or the Carmel Monastery… Abbeville, the second biggest town of the area, has a rich cultural heritage. Feel free to come and discover it!

🥰 We like : Abbeville isn’t a big city, you can easily get around it on foot

😍 We love : the diversity of the sites

💰 Price : most activities are free

Must do’s and Must sees in Abbeville (site in French)

17) The Abbey of Saint-Riquier

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Abbaye de Saint-Riquier (@abbayesaintriquier)

If you liked visiting the Saint-Vulfran collegial church in Abbeville, then it may be worth it to drive a few kilometers further to discover the abbey of Saint-Riquier.

The abbey, a monument in a flamboyant Gothic style , has withstood the test of time. The original abbey it belonged to (of which there is nothing left today) is said to have had been financed by Charlemagne himself . Demolished and rebuilt several times, the abbey and the gardens are now well-kept.

The abbey is the main attraction of the small village and remains a place of exchange . Every summer, the Saint-Riquier Festival holds several concerts inside the abbey (Hervé Niqué, Renaud Capuçon, Picardy Orchestra, etc.) and on the right, you will find the Cultural Centre of the Abbey which is also a museum.

🥰 We like : the amazing façade

😍 We love : the holy relics inside the abbey

💰 Price : free visit of the abbey, €5 for a guided visit of the abbey or the gardens

Information and booking for a visit of the Abbey of Saint-Riquier (site in French)

18) La Buvette de la Plage (The Beach Bar)

455 Quai Jeanne d’Arc, 80230 Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

If your adventures in the Somme Bay are coming to an end, I think it’s best to enjoy a good meal and a good view .

If you walk along the promenade of the Quai Jeanne d’Arc in Saint-Valery until the very end, you will find the Buvette de la Plage , a restaurant whose advantage is its terrace right in front of the beach and the bay’s mouth .

Don’t worry if you don’t like mussels with French fries, the Buvette has many more dishes on the menu so that you can enjoy a good meal with your feet almost in the sand.

🥰 We like : their good cocktails

😍 We love : the view, the beach, and, of course, the view!

💰 Price : all the dishes cost around €20 (from €16 to €21)

More information about the Buvette de la Plage (site in French)

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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15 best things to do in le touquet, france.

Are you visiting Northern France soon and looking for the best things to do in Le Touquet? We are here to help!

Le Touquet is a charming town on the coast of northern France, near the city of Calais.

It’s particularly popular with tourists and for good reason. There’s something for everyone in this pretty town.

From the museums and churches to the fabulous beaches and restaurants, Le Touquet is a true little piece of heaven.

So if you’re looking for ideas on what to do during your visit, here are 15 of the best things in Le Touquet.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Relaxing at Le Touquet Beach

One of the most popular things to do in Le Touquet is to spend the day at the beach.

The town’s main beach, Le Touquet Beach, is simply beautiful. It’s perfect for a relaxing day by the sea with friends or family.

It’s located between the town centre and the Canche Bay nature park. Here you will discover 12 kilometres of sandy beach. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern France and on the Opal Coast.

There are many things you can do on this beach but if you are visiting in summer, one of the most obvious activities is swimming and relaxing.

There are many colourful beach huts along the beach as well as several beach bars.

PRO TIP: There are large carparks right by the beach but you will have to pay for these. If you are willing to walk 10 minutes, you will find free on-street parking in the more residential parts of the town.

Sand Yachting on the beach

If you are looking for a more active thing to do on the beach, why not try sand yachting? It’s a very popular activity in Le Touquet and such a unique thing to do!

Sand yachting is basically like sailing but on sand instead of water. You can hire a sand yacht from one of the many companies in Le Touquet.

Most of them will give you a short lesson on how to control the yacht before setting you off. It’s great fun and a wonderful way to see the beaches of Le Touquet from a different perspective.

Roam around the town centre

Le Touquet’s town centre is lovely and definitely worth exploring. It’s very pedestrian-friendly with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to discover.

The houses are incredibly cute and unique.

Since the town centre is quite small, you can easily explore it on foot. Take some time to do what the French call “flâner” which means relaxing while strolling around.

The Rue Saint-Jean is the main street in Le Touquet but make sure to also spend some time in the smaller streets where you can find unique pieces of architecture.

There are also some beautiful parks and gardens in the town centre, such as the parc de l’Estuaire.

Go to the covered market

If you are in town on a Thursday, Saturday or Monday, make sure to visit the covered market of Le Touquet.

It’s located in the town centre and is one of the cutest markets in Northern France. There are stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, meat, fish, and much more.

Musée du Touquet

If you are looking for some cheap things to do in Le Touquet, visiting Le Touquet museum will be an excellent option.

It’s located in the town centre and is very easy to find. The museum is housed in a beautiful building which used to be a private mansion. There are gorgeous timber frames as well.

It’s a nice museum to visit because you will find gorgeous examples of local paintings and photos.

The most remarkable collection in the museum is the colonie d’Etaples which consists of 300 paintings made by French painters who used to go to Le Touquet and the Opal Coast.

Check out the Villa Monéjan

This one is a bit of a unique site since it’s not a landmark you can visit but it’s still interesting to mention it.

The Villa Monéjan has become famous since 2017 the most famous house in Le Touquet. Why? Because it belongs to Brigitte Macron, France’s first lady.

If you follow a bit of French politics, you may know that Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, love Le Touquet and they spend a great deal of time here.

The Villa Monéjan was actually the holiday house where Brigitte Macron used to spend her holidays as a child.

It now becomes to her and the couple is known for visiting often.

They even came here to vote for the presidential election in April 2022.

The house is located at the very top of the Rue Saint-Jean, near the lighthouse and in what is nicknamed the golden triangle of Le Touquet.

You can easily get there on foot and admire it from the outside.

Visiting Le Touquet Lighthouse

Le Touquet Lighthouse is one of the most famous landmarks in town. It’s located at the very top of the Rue Saint-Jean and offers stunning views over the town and beaches.

It was built in the 40s and is 45 metres high.

The lighthouse is open to visitors and there is a small museum inside which tells the story of how it was built and operated over the years. You can also join one of the local guided tours for 6 euros.

There are 274 steps to the top. From there you will discover breath-taking views over Le Touquet, the Opal Coast and can see as far as Normandy !

Casino Barrière Le Touquet

Want to have some fun? Then head to the Casino Barrière Le Touquet.

It’s located in the town centre and is a beautiful building. You will find all sorts of the table and slot games as well as a bar and a restaurant.

It’s a fun place to visit in the evening if you want to have some fun and enjoy some games.

Horse Riding in Le Touquet

Le Touquet is also an excellent place if you love horse riding. It’s one of the rare places where you get to ride on the beach.

Since Le Touquet Beach is so wide and long, it makes the perfect place for a horse riding trek. It’s so much fun and the scenery is second to none.

You can book your discovery or sporty trek directly from the horse riding centre, the Centre Équestre Du Touquet .

The treks can be 1 or 2 hours but also half days, full days and even full weekends so no matter what your level is, you will find something that will suit you.

Visiting the Canche Bay Nature Park

The Canche Bay Nature Park is located just outside of Le Touquet and is a great place to spend a day if you love nature.

This nature park is located at the mouth of the river Canche and is a true piece of heaven.

There are hiking trails, bird watching, and even canoeing and kayaking.

You will find several easy walking trails that will allow you to walk around the dunes and discover this beautiful environment.

The most popular ones are:

• Le Chemin des Molières – 3.2km return
• La Butte aux Signaux – 2.2km loop
• La Boucle du Tadorne – 2.2km loop

It’s called parc naturel de la Baie de Canche in French and most of the information available online is in French so if you have any doubts about the activities you can do there, head to the visitor centre of Le Touquet or Etaples.

The staff will be more than happy to answer all your questions.

Also, don’t hesitate to ask them about their themed guided tours of the nature park. They are offered during the high season and include 2 to 3 hours of a fun guided tour with a naturalist.

Laby’Parc Touquet

Laby’Parc Touquet is an outdoor adventure park that is perfect for a family day out.

It only takes 7 minutes to get there.

There are over 25 challenges spread across different courses. The courses are designed for different age groups (4-7 years old, 8-12 years old, and 13 years old and up) so everyone can have fun.

Some of the courses are in the trees and include zip-lines, rope bridges, and Tarzan swings.

You will also find some water activities with slides and water balls.

Basically, it’s the perfect thing to do in Le Touquet with kids.

Parc Bagatelle

Parc Bagatelle is another amusement park near Le Touquet.

It’s located near the town of Berck, which is about 20 minutes from Le Touquet.

This is another great activity for families near Le Touquet. You will find all sorts of roller coasters including for younger kids.

It’s also a cheaper option compared to Disneyland Paris or the Parc Astérix (both are near Paris).

PRO TIP: Book your ticket in advance on the official website , it’s a bit cheaper that at the gate.

Discover the local restaurants and cafes

If you want to discover more typical French delicacies, Le Touquet will be the perfect place to do so.

The Opal Coast is home to some of the best restaurants and there are loads of dishes to try.

Seafood is big here and if you want to try something a bit unique, opt for the mussels with Maroilles cheese sauce.

This is a cheese from Northern France and it got pretty famous in recent years because it was featured in the movie Bienvenue Chez Les Ch’tis (Welcome to the Sticks).

You will also find loads of local snacks like chocolate or orangettes .

If you head to Rue de Metz or Rue Saint-Jean, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to food. You can get a delicious meal in one of the local restaurants or even bring back some foodie souvenirs that you can buy in the boutiques.

Saint Joan of Arc Catholic Church

This is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Le Touquet and it’s definitely worth a visit.

The church was built at the beginning of the 20th century and it’s located on Boulevard Daloz.

It is quite an important church because it was the first one to be dedicated to Joan D’Arc.

As you may know, she was burnt at the stake and was only recognised for what she really was centuries later.

This church in Le Touquet was the first one to be dedicated to her and that’s what makes it such an important landmark.

Another important one (and the biggest) is the one in Rouen but it was built much later.

Walking along the promenade

If you want to admire the beach in all its beauty, you can also head to the promenade (called Esplanade) and walk along the beach.

If you have some roller skates, it will be the perfect place to take them out.

The promenade is long and flat so it’s particularly practical. It’s also very pretty at sunset.

Le Touquet is a charming town with plenty to offer tourists. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, amusement parks, or restaurants and cafes, Le Touquet has something for everyone. So if you’re planning on visiting this pretty town on the coast of France, be sure to add these activities to your list!

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• Outdoor Adventures In Brittany For...

11 Outdoor Adventures in Brittany for Thrill Seekers

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Brittany was made for outdoor adventure. In this region of dramatic coastlines and wild, hilly landscapes, you can just as easily whoosh along a beach on a sand yacht as camp under the stars in a forest clearing or heather-filled meadow. Check out these 11 activities and experiences, and get set for an adrenaline-fuelled holiday in northwestern France.

1. sand yacht in erquy.

Natural Feature

Sand yachting is much like its seagoing counterpart, except you zoom across the sand in a buggy rather than crash through the waves in a boat. Of all the places in Brittany where you can try it out, the expansive beach at Erquy is the best.

2. Hike Away From the Tourist Trail in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

The island castle of Mont-Saint-Michel is northwestern France’s biggest tourist attraction; however, the wider bay area, criss-crossed with hiking and biking trails, is free from crowds and full of bucolic scenery.

3. Paddleboard on the Pink Granite Coast or around Morlaix Bay

There are few better ways to enjoy the Pink Granite Coast, a 30-kilometre (18.5-mile) stretch of blushing boulders in the north of Brittany, than from the unique vantage point of a stand-up paddleboard. You can even undertake your coastal exploration with the guidance of surf champion Alexis Deniel. Otherwise, drift around the beautiful Morlaix Bay , where you’ll find little islands and islets that are ripe for exploring.

4. Cycle Around Belle-Île

5. Go Canyoning in Plougonvelin

With 2,860km (1,780mi) miles of coastline, Brittany is an unbeatable destination for canyoning – or coasteering, as it’s also known. This adventure activity involves scrambling over cliffs and boulders and intermittently plunging into the sea. The commune of Plougonvelin, at the northwestern tip of the Breton peninsula, is the perfect base for avid and beginner canyoners.

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6. Walk the Clifftops of the Crozon Peninsula

The Crozon Peninsula is famed for its clifftop walks. The most dramatic point along the way is the Pointe de Pen-Hir, with its 70-metre (230-foot) drop. From here, you can gaze out at the Tas de Pois, four stacks shaped by the waves of the Iroise Sea.

7. Kitesurf in Brest

Natural Feature, Historical Landmark

With no shortage of coastline or wind, Brittany has long been a destination for kitesurfers. For the best conditions the region has to offer, head to Brest . The Brittany Kite School can show you the ropes with lessons at numerous sites.

8. Trek around Armorica Regional Natural Park

Proving there’s more to Brittany than stunning coastlines, Armorica Natural Park is a beautiful area of protected wilderness, extending many miles inland and comprising thick forests and heather-filled meadows, excellent for a long day’s trek.

9. Zip line at Adrenaline Forest in Rennes

Amusement Park

This adventure park in Rennes , in the east of Brittany, will have your heart racing with its treetop courses, some of which reach heights of 20m (65ft). The five-stage zip line route whizzes you through the canopy for over half a mile.

10. Surf at Pointe de la Torche

Jutting as it does into the tempestuous Atlantic, it’s unsurprising that Brittany is a surfers paradise. The most popular spot, with near-guaranteed waves, is Pointe de la Torche , a finger of land in the southwest of the region that pokes into the sea.

11. Dolphin-spotting in Mont-Saint-Michel Bay

With nearly 400 bottle-nosed dolphins in the bay (the largest population of the species in Europe), your best bet of catching them in action is on a boat trip with the Association Al-Lark . The conservationist group organises daily dolphin-spotting excursions across the bay – and with any luck, you’ll get a chance to capture the playful mammals jumping and gliding through the sea.

There’s so much for everyone in Brittany. To find out more about Brittany’s activities and outdoor adventures, visit brittanytourism.com .

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Seaside Resorts in northern France

Seaside Resorts in northern France? I’ll be the first to admit that north France is not high on most Brits’ list of holiday options. But having spent quite some time in this part of France, I have completely fallen in love with the small resorts that cling onto the headlands of the Opal Coast.

So forget rushing through Dunkirk, Calais , Dieppe, only looking for the signs to the south. Think about slowing down and chilling out. Do like the French, and take a short break here along the coastline between Calais and the delightful resorts around Dieppe like Mers-les-Bains.

Think of the advantages!

The north coast of France is near and very easy, and cheap, to get to. Just think of the amount of time, effort and expense it takes to roar through France. Those motorway tolls alone cost the equivalent of a very good meal for 2.

It has some of the best beaches in France (in fact much better than the Riviera and Cote d’Azur beaches which are small and overcrowded). You can go for a short break, a long weekend or even a week. You’ll find that seaside resorts in northern France are a real find.

My first visit

My first introduction to this part of the country was my first introduction to France. I was four, my brothers were eight and twelve and we went with my parents to Mers-les-Bains. It was an unusual choice (nobody we knew had heard of the little French seaside resort) but as it turned out a great one.

More about Mers-les-Bains later. Here I’ve listed the best resorts on this coast geographically, starting from nearby Calais. If your memories include eating sandy sandwiches on a sunlit beach, sand yachting or kite flying, a short break at any of these resorts will take you back to your childhood.

The Opal Coast

There’s a reason this part of France running between the Somme bay and the resort of Berck and the Belgian border at Bray Dune is called the Opal Coast.

Known for its luminescent pearl-like light, Impressionist painters like Monet and Manet and the English painter J.W.M. Turner came here to follow Eugène Boudin who painted so much of this part of the coast. The Impressionists, as we know, were never wrong,

Sandy beaches are backed by dunes stabilised by the tough grasses that cling onto life here. White chalk cliffs stand high above the sea.

Walk up the 49-metre high Cap-Griz-Nez, just 14 kms north of Boulogne-sur-Mer, and you’re at the closest point to England. No surprise then that in the early 1800s Napoleon considered Wimereux an ideal place for a port to launch an attack on England with his troops from Boulogne. You’ll see his lonely statue standing high above Boulogne peering towards Britain. He decided to cancel the assault on Britain after seeing the view.

Don’t miss

Spectacular walking paths both inland and along the coast take you between the two great headlands, Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez.

Or hire an electric bike and go just that bit further.

With the gulls and sheep for company, the sandy paths lead you through the dunes. On a fine day the sea sparkles below you as a gentle breeze keeps the grasses rustling and ferries criss-cross the Channel. You feel on top of the world.

Like many of these northern France resorts, Wimereux grew in the late 19 th century when the arrival of the railways brought plenty of wealthy Parisians on their hols. Eager to impress, they built splendid Belle-Epoque villas along the ‘Digue’ promenade facing the sea and lining the streets behind. With their little stone balconies, big windows and pointed towers they still look the part.

There’s plenty to do in Wimereux, from sand yachting to horseback riding, from sailing to golf.

Wimereux has the French government’s official Famille Plus designation which means it’s family friendly. There’s a glorious stretch of beach and a real holiday vibe.

Don’t miss…

…The Communal Cemetery in Wimereux where John McRae is buried. The Canadian soldier served in World War I in Belgium, and most famously wrote the poem In Flanders Fields . His simple gravestone is surrounded by those of other soldiers and nurses in the Commonwealth War Graves section.

There’s more to seaside resorts in northern France than you imagine.

“ In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row,  That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly  Scarce heard amid the guns below. “

Where to Stay

L’atlantic.

Your best bet is the 4-star L’Atlantic . All the bright, fresh, colourful rooms face the sea; some have balconies or terraces.

The hotel has two restaurants and a spa in case you need some wellbeing after all that sea salt. The first floor La Liégeoise has always been the top local restaurant and has one Michelin star (menus 75€ to 95€) and great view. L’Aloze is more casual. 3-course menus are 25€ and 31€. If you’re a fish or seafood fan, you’ll be specially delighted.

L’Atlantic 6 rue Notre Dame 62930 Wimereux Mobile: 06 52 45 09 55 Website Prices 147€ to 250€ varying by room and the season; breakfast is 15€ per person.

La Villa Sainte Claire

Stay just back from the coast in Wimille at La Villa Sainte Claire where the owner, Catherine Debatte, will cheerfully welcome you to her pretty 3-storey 18 th -century house.

Choose from the charming double room in the main house with its wooden floor, comfortable bed with a red Toile de Jouy cover and garden view. Or go thoroughly nomadic in one of two gypsy caravans in the grounds. There’s also a gîte sleeping 4 people for weekly rent.

Breakfast in the garden if it’s fine then borrow a bicycle for the mile-long ride into Wimereux.

Not many people have heard of Hardelot, which given its illustrious British connections, comes as a surprise.  

Less posh and more relaxed than its big sister Le Touquet-Paris-Plage it’s a charming and elegant resort, with its villas and cottages secluded in the wooded surroundings of the centre.

Plenty of activities for families makes this another Famille Plus resort.  At low tide the beach of Hardelot-Plage stretches for 6 miles.

The Château of Hardelot in nearby Condette dates from the 12 th century. It’s delightful, with William Morris fabrics, grand false fireplaces, overstuffed chairs and plenty of references to the Entente Cordiale between England and France.  

The Tudor gardens are full of yew hedges and topiaries but the real gem is the relatively new Elizabethan theatre which can double as a baroque opera house. Go to a performance of one of Shakespeare’s plays done both seriously and jokingly or one of the many music concerts.  

Read more about Château Hardelot, its theatre and the famous Entente Cordiale .

Château Hardelot 1 rue de la source Condette Tel: +33 (0)3 21 21 73 65 Website

Where to stay in Hardelot

Hotel du parc.

Part of the small Najeti chain, which also includes Château Tilques near St. Omer, the hotel has 80 large rooms and 22 apartments on three stories overlooking rolling parkland. There are tennis courts, an outdoor heated pool, sauna and children’s play area. L’Orangerie is a conventional restaurant and the best bet is to order local fish cooked in classic French style.

Hotel du Parc 111 Avenue François 1 Hardelot Tel: +33 (0)3 21 33 22 11 Website

Hardelot Tourist Office 476 Avenue François 1 Hardelot Tel: +33 (0)3 21 83 51 02 Website

Le Touquet Paris-Plage

The poshest of the 20 th century resorts built by the English on this part of the coast, Le Touquet today is more relaxed that you might expect from its past history.

Developed by John Whitley as a model resort, villas and grand cottages were built in the woodlands, alongside that absolute priority, a golf course.

By the 1920s Le Touquet had become the north France playground for the likes of Noel Coward, the Prince of Wales and Wallis Simpson. P.G. Wodehouse lived here from 1934 to 1940 but was caught by the advancing Germans and interned then sent to Berlin where he broadcast to the US from German radio.

The British visitors came for the good life: to sail, to play polo and golf, go horse racing during the day and gamble the night away in the casino. You get a taste of the past at the Hotel Westminster, where the guest list reads like a Who’s Who of the great and the…possibly not-so-good.

The sweeping beach still attracts those after water sports; the Centre Tennistique is the fourth largest tennis complex in France with 29 courts and is fantastically well equipped and run. There are 3 golf courses, horse riding and for families, Aqualud, an aquatic centre on the ocean.

The Museum of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage offers some unexpected delights from the School of Étaples. Just across the bay, the little town of Étaples attracted artists from 1880 to 1914. The English artist Dudley Hardy, the Americans Walter Gay and L.  Birge Harrison and his wife, the Australian Eleanor Ritchie, joined the better known Eugene Boudin and André Derain.

There are around 200 pictures here from the school as well as a collection of photographs of the great and the good.

Le Westminster

Where else but at the Le Westminster ? Built in the local Art Deco Style and named after the Duchess of Westminster, this large red-brick grande dame of a hotel has been the heart of Le Touquet since it opened its illustrious doors in 1928. And it has now been refurbished to its past elegance.

With its dark wood paneling and deep colours, its black-and-white photo corridor of past guests, its top restaurant and smart bars, it’s worth every penny. The 104 rooms and suites are elegant and the grandly traditional decor is tempered with pretty modern pastel colours. It’s very expensive in the high season.

Michelin-starred chef William Elliott has left his menu in the capable hands of new chef Bruno Borrione who oversees the two restaurants. Le Pavillon and the more casual style La Table du West.

Le Westminster Ave du Verger 50310 Quinéville Tel: +33 (0)3 21 05 48 48 Website Prices From 129€ per night; breakfast is 15€ per person.

Le Touquet Paris-Plage Tourist Office Palais des Congrès Tel: +33 (0)3 21 06 72 00 Website

Berck-sur-Mer

This delightful little French seaside resort starts its summer season every April with a huge International Kite Festival ( Rencontres Internationales de Cerfs-Volants ).

Huge fantastic sea animals, strange creatures and weird amorphous shapes swoop and dive across the huge open skies.

There are competitions and mock battles, parades, fireworks and much fun. Well worth coming for.

Otherwise there’s plenty to recommend Berck-sur-Mer, apart from the 12km-long beach. Take a sand yacht on the firm sand or a boat cruise out to the bay, go jet-skiing or fishing, or just relax on the beach. The delightful little beach huts you can hire by the day keep you protected from too much sun or wind.

For a bit of culture, try the museum with its models of boats, a typical house interior, paintings by local artists and a remarkable collection of portraits of sailors.

Berck is designated a ‘ Station Kid ’ resort which means there’s plenty for children to do. It has a Pavillon Bleu Européan status which guarantees its clean beach and sea and is known for its flowers blooming everywhere. There are street markets, annual brocantes fairs and a Sea Festival in May.

Walking along the hiking path by the Baie d’Authie which gives you fabulous views and the chance to see seals frolicking in the sea at low tide.

La Chaumière

With pretty thatched roofs and a blooming garden, this small bed and breakfast offers 4 charming rooms. It’s just 4 kms from Berck-sur-Mer and the Baie d’Authie.

La Chaumière 19 rue du Bihen 62180 Verton Tel: +33 21 84 27 10 Website Prices 75€ per room including breakfast

Tourist Office of Berck-sur-Mer 5 Avenue Francis Tattegrain 62600 Berck sur Mer Tel: +33 (0)3 21 09 50 00 Website

Mers-les-Bains

And so back to the beginning, or at least to my beginning. This thoroughly Victorian seaside resort in the Somme Bay in Picardy was the first place I visited in France – aged 4, with my family.

I’ve been back and it’s still delightful. A remarkable number of brightly coloured, late 19 th -century villas built in Belle Epoque style with Art Nouveau details still line the front. One of my favorite seaside resorts in northern France.

The circular bay with its pebble beach and sand at low tide has children splashing happily in the relatively warm seas (children don’t feel the cold so much) protected at one end by high white cliffs. Friendly little restaurants and street markets bring the French holiday makers here. It’s one of the three towns known as the ‘sisters’, just opposite the smarter and bigger Le Tréport with Eu just inland.

La Fête des Baigneurs on the last weekend in July sees the town return to its Belle Epoque origins. People dress up as they would have done in 1900; it’s a remarkable site.

Hôtel le Bellevue Beaurivage

I can’t find the hotel we stayed in on my first ever trip to France. It’s not surprising as it was a very long time ago.

But it just could have been the 3-star Hôtel le Bellevue Beaurivage. The hotel is on the seafront looking out onto the little beach huts and has 22 simple rooms, smartly decorated. The restaurant is more a brasserie these days with menus from 24€ to 38.50€ and the welcome is as friendly as before.

Until I learn differently I will treat this hotel as my first French holiday experience.

Read more about that first French holiday experience in my Memories of France

Hôtel le Bellevue Beaurivage 22 Esplanade du Général Leclerc 80350 Mers-les-Bains Tel: +33 (02) 35 96 12 89 Website Prices 69€ to 139€; breakfast is 12€ per person

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• Let’s ride

Sand yachting

La Franqui, on the immense beach of Les Coussoules, is a unique place to ride in the Mediterranean!

Gliding on the sand hardened by the sea, the wind rushing through your sail… Sand-yachting is for people of all ages . It’s easier than riding a bike, with plenty of thrills and spills right from the start!

The Cercle de Voile du Cap Leucate , the local sand yachting centre, offers rentals , lessons and advice on the spot they know by heart! You can also try dirt windsurfing or buggy kite …

Cercle de voile du Cap Leucate

Rolling site of La Franqui

Freedom and fun, fuelled with adrenaline on the sand in La Franqui!

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Sea kayaking amid iconic D-Day landmarks

Normandy Tourism, France

• Active & outdoor
• Lifestyle & Wellness
• Discover Normandy
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Sea kayaking around the Mulberry Harbour pontoons © T. Le Floc'H

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Updated on 26 January 2024

Reading time: 4 minutes

Experienced by Erwan, Briec, Stéphane and Cléa, whose day of discovery in Arromanches-les-Bains included a visit to the D-Day Museum followed by a sea kayaking excursion around the famous Mulberry Harbour, accompanied by instructor Hélène

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Great for watersports and history lovers, this unique experience combines a great outdoor spectacle and a deep insight into the history of WWII. On the agenda for our day in Arromanches is a trip to the D-Day Museum followed by a sea kayaking excursion along the Mulberry Harbour’s famous Phoenix caissons.

No better place to experience history

Finally, the day has come! We’ve been planning this outing with friends for weeks and here we are, setting off for a full day dedicated to improving our knowledge on the largest military operation in history: Operation Overlord, commonly known as D-Day.

To start off, a visit of the D-Day Museum gives us some background information on the construction of the artificial port, with many models, photos and archive videos on display. We find out the harbour was designed and built in secrecy by British engineers across the channel in less than nine months. The first Phoenix caissons were sunk two days after D-Day. Six days later, the Allies started unloading the military equipment. The speed of events is hard to imagine; we are overwhelmed with emotion. The artificial Mulberry Harbour was one of the great engineering feats of the war and a turning-point in the Battle of Normandy. As we gaze through the window, we spot the remains of the structure on the horizon. In a few hours, we’ll be in the water for a closer look at these iconic landmarks. 

Heading for the pontoons

Time for our kayaking excursion! At the nearby Centre Nautique d’Asnelles, we meet our friendly instructor Hélène, who happens to be a sand-yachting world champion as well as a kayaking expert and our guide for the day. Suited up in wetsuits, we head for the beach with our kayaks. The conditions are perfect: blue skies, sunshine and a calm sea.

After a quick reminder of various paddling techniques, we head towards the Phoenix caissons. After a few minutes, we come face to face with an impressive concrete block covered in shells and seaweed.  “Nature claims back its rights over time,” says our guide. “A whole ecosystem has developed around the pontoons.” Some of the sea snails are edible, and Hélène points out the sea shell commonly named the Chinese hat snail before suggesting we taste them raw. The initial flavour of saltiness explodes onto our palates and it has a pleasantly chewy texture. A little dubious aboutthis culinary experience, we decide to leave this treat to the sea birds!

Closing in on the Phoenix caissons

We continue our nautical adventure. Hélène sets the pace and takes us to the entrance of a remarkably well-preserved caisson. We manage to enter it via a small breach. What an incredible feeling! Our voices echo inside the small space.

Further on, the highlight of the expedition awaits. A few paddle strokes away, we come across a concrete block of more than 10 metres long, making us feel really small. Hélène invites us inside. In silence, we listen to the breeze creeping into the different sections of the block. We are totally overwhelmed, considering the pivotal role played by these pontoons more than 70 years ago.

On our way back, we contemplate these timeless landscapes from the distance. Although there were originally 115 caissons, only several dozens of them can still been seen today, providing a vivid testimony of the past.

The beauty of sea kayaking in Arromanches is that we can get a real close-up of its heritage. Floating silently alongside these emblematic landmarks of our shared history and immersing ourselves in this spectacular, dramatic environment, is an adventure we will never forget.

ARROMANCHES-les-Bains

World famous for the artificial harbour built by the Allies, Arromanches-les-Bains and its long sandy beach are also a hotspot for watersports such as sea kayaking, sand-yachting and stand-up paddle boarding.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Centre de Loisirs Nautiques d’Asnelles Cale de l’Essex, 14960 Asnelles charavoile-asnelles.net By booking only (3 people min / 12 people max) Wetsuits provided by the watersports centre. Please bring swimming things and dry clothes to wear after the excursion

From April to October

2024 PRICES

Per person for a group of less than 6 people:

1h30: €30 (7 – 17 years old) – 1h30: €40 (over 18)

If more than 6 people in the group, rates available on the website charavoile-asnelles.fr

Excursions suitable for adults and children over 12. Children between 8 and 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the kayak

Swimming is a prerequisite for kayaking. Prior to the excursion, adults are required to sign a form attesting to their swimming ability as are parents on behalf of their children

Places TO EAT IN ARROMANCHES

Ô Beach Arromanches – Bar à Huîtres , 21 place du 6 juin 1944, 14117 Arromanches-les-Bains

Les Sablés d’Asnelles , 2 place Alexander Stanier, 14960 Asnelles

The D-Day Museum

Musée du Débarquemen t, place du 6 juin, 14117 Arromanches-les-Bains

Prices : Adults: € 12.70 Children (6 – 18 years old): € 8.20

Family rate: € 36 (2 adults and 2 children – 6 to 18 years old)

Open from 4 February to December

All of the above information is subject to change

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