The Côte d’Opale, the natural jewel of the Hauts-de-France region, stretches majestically along the North Sea from Dunkirk to Berck-sur-Mer. This coastline, rich in history and scenery, offers a captivating mix of chalk cliffs, vast beaches and charming seaside resorts. Easily accessible from Arras, Lille or Paris, this region is an ideal haven for those seeking a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Discover the north of the Opal Coast
Your journey along the Opal Coast begins in the north, offering a rich and varied experience, full of unique discoveries and activities at every stage :
- Dunkirk: Start your journey in Dunkirk, France’s northernmost city. Explore its rich maritime heritage by visiting the Musée Portuaire, which presents the city’s maritime history through interactive exhibits and historic ships. The Frac Grand Large, with its modern architecture and contemporary art exhibitions, is another must-see.
Stroll along the renovated seawall, which leads to the charming Malo-les-Bains district. Here, colorful villas and a bohemian atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for a photo shoot. Don’t forget to try Dunkerque’s famous moules frites, a local delicacy ; - Platier d’Oye: Continuing south, stop off at the Platier d’Oye nature reserve. This site is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering a varied landscape of dunes, wet meadows and oyats. Take time to observe migratory birds and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this nature reserve ;
- Calais: Arriving in Calais, explore the city’s historic port. Visit the belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the sea. Discover Rodin’s Six Bourgeois statue, an emblematic monument commemorating a heroic episode in the history of Calais. The town is also home to many other historical and cultural sites, including museums and art galleries.
The burghers of Calais
The heart of the Opal Coast
The middle of the Opal Coast is a treasure trove of natural landscapes, rich history and charming coastal towns, each offering unique and memorable experiences :
- Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez: These two capes are natural jewels of the region. Cap Blanc-Nez is famous for its impressive chalk cliffs offering spectacular views over the English Channel. It’s a perfect spot for hiking or simply admiring the sunset. Nearby Cap Gris-Nez is famous for its sandstone formations and extensive views over the cliffs of Kent in England. It’s also an excellent spot for watching migratory birds. Wissant, located between the two capes, is a charming fishing village with traditional flobarts and beaches ideal for surfing and kitesurfing.
In high season, you can also visit the Atlantic Wall Museum in Audinghen ; - Boulogne-sur-Mer: As France’s largest fishing town, Boulogne-sur-Mer offers a rich maritime heritage. Visit the Centre National de la Mer Nausicaá for an educational and entertaining experience, ideal for families. The old walled town, with its Basilique Notre-Dame and belfry, is perfect for a historical and cultural stroll ;
- Le Touquet-Paris-Plage: Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Opal Coast”, this seaside resort is renowned for its elegance. Its vast sandy beaches, dunes and Anglo-Norman-style villas make it an ideal vacation destination.
Enjoy activities such as golf(as in Arras), tennis and horse riding, or simply explore the town’s lively streets ; - Hardelot-Plage: This seaside resort is known for its tranquil atmosphere, its castle and its beautiful beach.
It’s an ideal location for outdoor activities, including horseback riding, golf and sand yachting. The surrounding countryside also offers great opportunities for hiking and cycling ; - Montreuil-sur-Mer: A little inland, this historic town, where an annual show is staged in honor of Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, is surrounded by well-preserved ramparts. Its charming town center, with its cobbled streets and traditional buildings, is a must-see for history and culture buffs. Don’t miss the local market and restaurants offering regional specialties.
A picturesque street in Montreuil-sur-Mer
The southern Opal Coast
The southern Côte d’Opale, with its striking natural landscapes and charming coastal towns, offers a memorable end to the French coastline.
- Berck-sur-Mer: This town is a must for kite lovers, thanks to its international festival that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. Berck’s extensive beaches are ideal for a variety of water sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddling. Apart from these events, Berck-sur-Mer offers a tranquil setting, perfect for relaxing walks on the beach or watching seals resting on the sand ;
- Baie de Somme: Listed as one of the most beautiful bays in the world, the Baie de Somme is a natural gem with its vast marshes, dunes and exceptional wildlife. The presence of the calf seal colony is one of the region’s highlights. Guided tours are organized to observe these animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
The Baie de Somme is also a privileged site for birdwatchers, with numerous species of migratory birds ; - Quend Plage: Located close to the Baie de Somme, Quend Plage is a tranquil seaside destination, perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. The beach stretches for miles and is surrounded by natural dunes, providing an ideal setting for family walks or picnics ;
- Villages around the Baie de Somme: The region is full of picturesque villages such as Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, with its medieval port and charming alleyways, and Le Crotoy, with its beautiful beach and breathtaking views over the bay. These villages are perfect for discovering the local culture and regional gastronomy, and for immersing yourself in a peaceful, authentic atmosphere.
Each stage of this journey offers a unique experience, blending the natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture of this emblematic maritime region of France. The beaches and dunes are undoubtedly among the most beautiful in France :
Dunes in winter north of the Baie de Somme
To conclude this topic on the Opal Coast
The Opal Coast, with its breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage, is a destination not to be missed. Whether you’re looking for a hike, a cycling getaway or a family holiday, it offers a multitude of experiences and discoveries. From Dunkirk to Berck-sur-Mer, every town and natural site bears witness to the region’s unique history and beauty.
A trip along this coast is an invitation to reconnect with nature and discover the hidden treasures of Hauts-de-France.
R.C.
