Welcome to the Côte d'Opale, a northern French treasure that stretches between Calais and Berck-sur-Mer. Here, vast sandy beaches, chalk cliffs and charming little towns form the perfect backdrop for a getaway. Whether you're an avid hiker looking to explore Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, a history buff drawn to towns like Montreuil-sur-Mer, or simply looking for seaside relaxation in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, there's something for everyone. Get ready to discover spectacular landscapes, rich heritage and moments of pure pleasure. Come with us to explore the jewels of the Côte d'Opale!
1- Caps Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez
Caps Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez, pearls of the Opal Coast, invite you to discover their breathtaking panoramas. Located just a short distance from each other, each offers a unique experience. Cap Blanc-Nez, with its chalk cliffs, dominates the North Sea, giving you a clear view of the English coastline. Cap Gris-Nez, further south, offers an equally impressive spectacle, with views of ships passing through the world's busiest strait. Ideal for hiking, these capes will let you experience nature in its purest form. Get your camera and binoculars ready, and marvel at the wild beauty of these seascapes.
2- What to do on the Côte d'Opale? Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is an ideal holiday destination for those looking to combine relaxation with a variety of activities. This seaside resort welcomes you with its long sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing or beach games. The town center, with its boutiques and cafés, is the perfect place to stroll after a day on the water. Le Touquet is also known for its year-round sporting and cultural events, attracting visitors and celebrities alike. Between sea and forest, enjoy walks or bike rides in a preserved natural setting. Discover other activities in our Le Touquet must-sees!
3- Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer, nicknamed the capital of the Côte d'Opale, is a charming destination that combines history and modernity. This port city, France's leading fishing port, invites you to explore its historic center. Don't miss the Notre-Dame basilica and its imposing medieval crypt. For a more modern experience, dive into the underwater world at Nausicaá, one of Europe's largest aquariums. Whether you're sampling fresh fish in one of the many restaurants or strolling along the harbor, Boulogne-sur-Mer offers the perfect mix of cultural activities and seaside relaxation. Book your 1-day ticket for Nausicaá !
4- Wissant
Wissant, located between Caps Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez, is a charming coastal village offering a peaceful setting. The destination is famous for its extensive sandy beaches, ideal for relaxing, surfing or kite-flying. The village exudes calm and tradition, with its typical houses and small shops. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the paths winding through the dunes and offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. Thanks to its constant winds, Wissant also attracts water sports enthusiasts. You'll also find Wissant in our Top 15 of the most beautiful villages in Northern France!
5- Audresselles
Audresselles, a small fishing village, is a charming escape with its preserved maritime traditions. This authentic village seduces with its narrow streets lined with traditional brick houses and its wild beaches dotted with pebbles. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood in friendly restaurants while taking in the view of colorful boats. Audresselles is also an ideal starting point for hikes to the Caps d'Opale, where nature reigns supreme. Between walks on the beach, discovering the local flora and observing the tides, Audresselles promises a relaxing stay rich in discoveries. The village is also one of France's 25 most beautiful villages in 2024!
6- Ambleteuse
Ambleteuse captivates with its rustic charm and military history. Famous for its 17th-century fort built by Vauban, this village is a must-see for history buffs. Ambleteuse's beach, lined with pebbles and dunes, provides the ideal setting for soothing strolls or angling sessions. Photography enthusiasts will also find much to enjoy here. The village offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Visit Ambleteuse for an experience where nature meets history, offering moments of relaxation in a picturesque setting.
7- Wimereux
Wimereux, a charming seaside resort on the Côte d'Opale, welcomes you with its colorful facades and Belle Époque atmosphere. Stroll along the beachfront promenade to enjoy the sea breeze and spectacular views over the English Channel. The town is perfect for combining beach relaxation and cultural exploration, with its many cafés, boutiques and restaurants. There's no shortage of activities: sailing, windsurfing and golf for the sporty, or simply relaxing on the fine sand. Wimereux is also an ideal starting point for walks along the surrounding cliffs. It's the perfect place to get away from it all for a weekend or a longer vacation.
8- Montreuil-sur-Mer
Montreuil-sur-Mer, just inland from the Côte d'Opale, is a town steeped in history and charm. Its medieval ramparts offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Montreuil-sur-Mer is famous for having inspired Victor Hugo to write his novel "Les Misérables". The citadel and fortifications bear witness to its past strategic importance. It's the ideal place for a historical walk or to enjoy the many traditional cafés and restaurants. Every summer, the town comes alive with the "Les Misérables" sound and light show, attracting visitors and residents alike to relive the epic tale of Jean Valjean.
9- Dunkirk
Dunkirk, a dynamic port city on the Opal Coast, is culturally rich. Famous for its key role during Operation Dynamo in the Second World War, the city invites visitors to explore its past through its port museum and the beaches where historic events took place. Dunkirk is also renowned for its carnival, one of the liveliest in France, which brings locals and visitors together for colorful festivities. Be sure to stroll along the quayside to watch the boats, or enjoy a gourmet break in one of the many seafood restaurants. Find out more about the famous Dunkirk carnival in our dedicated article! Discover the main sites of the Battle of Dunkirk on this guided tour !
10- Gravelines
Encircled by ancient walls and water-filled moats, Gravelines transports you back in time with its preserved architecture and accessible bastions for strolling. The historic center, with its cobbled streets and traditional buildings, is perfect for leisurely exploration. Be sure to visit the Musée du Dessin et de l'Estampe Originale, housed in the town's arsenal. Gravelines is also ideal for lovers of outdoor activities, with options such as canoeing on the moat or cycling along the beach. Every year, the town comes alive during the Fête de la mer, celebrating its rich maritime history.
11- What to do on the Opal Coast? Baie d'Authie
Baie d'Authie, on the border between the Pas-de-Calais and Somme departments, is a magnificent natural sanctuary. This tranquil bay is famous for its vast stretches of sand and salt marshes, which attract a wide variety of birds and seals, often visible at low tide. Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife watchers, the Baie d'Authie is ideal for walking or cycling along its signposted footpaths. The bay's ever-changing landscapes make it a popular location for photography. Come and discover Baie d'Authie, a haven of peace where nature reigns supreme.
12- Malo-les-Bains
Malo-les-Bains, a district of Dunkirk, is renowned for its long, sandy beach, which attracts bathers and families all year round. This historic seaside resort, known for having been a strategic location during Operation Dynamo in the Second World War, is today a perfect setting for relaxation and leisure. With its charming villas lining the promenade, Malo-les-Bains invites you to take long strolls by the sea. The beach is also a popular spot for wind sports such as kite-surfing and sand yachting. Throughout the year, various events and festivals liven up the area, reinforcing its friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
13- Calais Town Hall
The Hôtelde Ville de Calais, with its imposing silhouette and neo-Flemish architectural style, is a true icon of the city. This remarkable building is crowned by a 75-metre-high belfry, which provides a panoramic view of the surrounding region and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The richly decorated façade and ornate interior bear witness to the building's historical and cultural importance. This town hall is not only an administrative center, but also a meeting point for local festivities, including the famous Dentelle de Calais. Visit this venue to appreciate its grandiose architecture and to discover the temporary exhibitions that are often held here, adding a cultural dimension to the experience.
14- Hiking along the GR120
Hiking along the GR120, also known as the Sentier du Littoral de la Côte d'Opale, is an unforgettable experience for walkers and nature lovers. This long-distance hiking trail stretches for over 200 kilometers along France's northern coast, from the Belgian border to just outside Berck-sur-Mer. The route reveals spectacular views of the English Channel, white chalk cliffs, sandy beaches and rolling dunes. It's the perfect opportunity to observe local wildlife, breathe in the sea air and marvel at sunsets over the ocean. Accessible to hikers of all levels, the GR120 is dotted with historical and natural points of interest, inviting you to pause and discover the region's heritage and picturesque coastal villages. Discover the 10 most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in France!
15- Museum of the Atlantic Wall
The Musée du Mur de l'Atlantique, located in Audinghen near Cap Gris-Nez, is a fascinating historical site that immerses visitors in the history of the Second World War. The museum is housed in a former German battery, known as the Todt Battery, which formed part of the coastal defense wall built by the Nazis to prevent an Allied invasion. The museum displays an impressive collection of military artifacts, including uniforms, weapons and even a K5 railway cannon, one of the largest ever built. Visitors can explore the bunker's various rooms, learning about defense strategies and the daily lives of the soldiers stationed there.
16- Berck-sur-Mer
Berck-sur-Mer is a seaside town known for its vast sandy beaches, ideal for kite flying and water sports. Every year, it draws crowds for its famous international kite festival. Walkers also appreciate the town's seaside promenades, perfect for recharging their batteries overlooking the English Channel. Berck-sur-Mer offers privileged access to nature with the nearby Baie d'Authie, an ideal place to observe seals and birds in their natural habitat. The town also stands out for its commitment to health and well-being, thanks to its clinics specializing in rehabilitation.
17- All-terrain scooter ride
An all-terrain scooter ride on the Côte d'Opale is an exciting adventure that combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of the natural landscape. This activity is a unique and dynamic way to explore the region's dunes, beaches and forest paths. Suitable for all levels, the off-road scooters make it easy to cover varied terrain, offering a memorable experience far from the beaten track. Experienced guides provide the necessary instructions and lead participants through routes carefully chosen for their safety and visual pleasure. It's the perfect opportunity to feel the adrenalin, enjoy spectacular views and discover less accessible parts of the Opal Coast.
See also our 17 must-see places in Hauts-de-France!
What's the most beautiful place on the Côte d'Opale?
Some places on the Côte d'Opale are often cited as particularly beautiful, such as Caps Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez for their spectacular cliffs, Le Touquet-Paris-Plage for its elegant ambience, and Baie d'Authie for its unspoilt nature.
Where to walk on the Opal Coast?
On the Côte d'Opale, you can stroll along the magnificent sandy beaches of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, Berck-sur-Mer or Malo-les-Bains. Coastal footpaths also offer picturesque walks, notably the GR120, which skirts the coastline with its breathtaking views over the English Channel. Walks along the cliffs of Caps Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez offer breathtaking panoramas. And don't miss the charming coastal towns and villages of Wimereux, Ambleteuse and Audresselles, perfect for quiet strolls in authentic surroundings.
