Spend hours strolling the bustling streets of cities like Bethune and Lille, exploring markets and stopping at cafés for local fare. Pop into art museums or visit the war memorials dotting the region – bordering Belgium and near to England, Nord-Pas has been touched by many conflicts. The region is also home to a magnificent coastline; what could be better than a day at the beach with a local craft beer and a platter of local seafood?
HISTORY & CULTURE
After exploring museums and ancient churches, climb one of Nord-Pas de Calais’ 38 towering belfries for stunning views over the Northern French countryside. You won’t have to venture far from your luxury retreat to visit the many memorials to Nord-Pas’ turbulent past. Those with an interest in military history may like to visit Vimy, or the beach at Dunkirk where the D-Day landings took place in 1945.
FOOD & DRINK
Pick up bottles of local wine and creamy cheeses in one of the region’s markets. Enjoy the sea air over a pot of steaming moules, washed down with Nord-Pas de Calais’ Ch’ti craft beer. Or indulge in the rich fusion food found along the Belgian border – tuck into waffles, tarts or casseroles while sipping a genever gin. With top-rated restaurants the region over, fine dining and fresh cuisine abound.
BEACHES
Head to Nord-Pas de Calais’ bustling beach resorts to experience quintessential French seaside culture. Stroll along quaint village promenades, stopping for a crepe or an ice cream. Explore expansive, sandy beaches, taking advantage of the extreme low tide to go sand yachting. Or simply relax with a good read by a colourful beach hut and gaze out over the Channel.
Head to Roubaix’s Musee de la Piscine to see how an elegant indoor pool has become the focal point of a splendid museum.