Holidays in Pas-de-Calais: discover the countryside and the sea

by David S. - Published August 28, 2024 - Updated August 28, 2024

Holidays in the Nord Pas-de-CalaisIt's the call of a gentle blend of the foam of the waves and the scent of the earth. This often little-known region of northern France is full of treasures for souls in search of escape. Here, you'll be charmed by the spectacle of cliffs and gentle valleys. Every horizon is a canvas for unforgettable moments. Come and breathe in the iodised coastal air and feel the green caress of the countryside: the Pas-de-Calais is an enchanted interlude where nature reveals its finest finery for authentic, rejuvenating holidays.

Discover the Opal Coast

A holiday in the Pas-de-Calais means immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery, where the sea meets a sky of changing colours. On the Opal CoastThe long, sandy beaches are an ideal playground for sailing and sand yachting enthusiasts. Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, with their white chalk cliffs plunging into the blue waters, are perfect places for invigorating walks. Here you can watch the ceaseless ballet of ferries coming and going between France and England and, on a clear day, catch a glimpse of the British coastline.

For those who prefer more leisurely activities during their holiday in the Nord Pas-de-Calais region, the Côte d'Opale is also full of charming little seaside resorts, such as Wimereux or Le Touquet. These places offer a warm, family atmosphere, with walks along the seafront, shops and restaurants where you can linger over freshly caught seafood. For a memorable stay, there's nothing like a stroll at dusk, when the setting sun sets the horizon and you feel very small in the face of the immensity of the sea.

The rural charm of Artois

Moving away from the coast to explore the Artois means discovering a whole new facet of holidays in the Pas-de-Calais. This region is dotted with picturesque villages with cobbled streets and red-brick houses. Wandering through the countryside, you'll be struck by the beauty of the golden wheat fields, the lush green pastures dotted with bright hedges and the gently rolling hills. The local markets are teeming with fresh produce and offer the chance to sample the region's cheese, artisanal cider and famous papin tarts.

For those who cherish heritage and history, the Artois region is also rich in First World War commemorative sites. The Canadian Vimy Memorial pays tribute to the soldiers who fell on the battlefield, while the military cemeteries are touching places of remembrance. A holiday here combines relaxation in the countryside with cultural enrichment, an alchemy that makes for a truly special experience.

The hidden gems of the Boulogne region

Strolling through the Boulonnais region, you can marvel at hidden treasures little known to the tourist crowds. The town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in particular, is home to one of Europe's largest aquariums, Nausicaá. The visit promises a fascinating immersion into the depths of the sea, where you can admire a multitude of aquatic species. But that's not all: the fortified old town is another highlight, with its castle-museum and impressive basilica.

In the surrounding area, holidays in Nord Pas-de-Calais reveal some spectacular natural sites. The Baie de Saint-Jean nature reserve will entice you with its breathtaking panoramas. Hikers, birdwatchers and photographers will all find something to their liking here. The Bay of Canche also offers splendid landscapes of dunes and marshes, where flora and fauna thrive. These unspoilt natural settings are an invitation to take a deep breath of fresh air and let go.

A land of history and remembrance

The Pas-de-Calais is also an area steeped in history, with many remains dating back to different eras. History buffs can explore the La Coupole site, a former Second World War bunker that today houses a history centre and planetarium. It's an emotional visit that underlines the gravity of past conflicts, while offering a captivating insight into space technology.

The region's mining history is not forgotten, with the Centre Historique Minier de Lewarde, where you can descend into the bowels of the earth to experience what miners went through. A holiday in the Pas-de-Calais is therefore an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local industrial heritage and understand the importance of coal in the département's economic history. Visit travel are adventures that enrich the mind and build lasting memories.

Gastronomic flavours and traditions

A holiday in the Pas-de-Calais is also an opportunity to indulge in a culinary voyage. The region is renowned for its generous and authentic gastronomy. The local markets are full of local produce: charcuterie, farmhouse cheeses, artisan breads and, of course, the inevitable regional beers. Don't miss the famous welsha comforting dish made with melted cheese, or potjevleesch, a white meat terrine in jelly.

For those with a sweet tooth, the beaten cake, with its characteristic chef's hat shape, is a local speciality not to be missed. Local craftsmen also make jams and honeys from wild flowers picked in the unspoilt countryside. So a holiday in the Pas-de-Calais is as much a feast for the eyes as for the taste buds, the perfect combination for an unforgettable stay.