The local what's-on guide for the Opal Coast
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Points of interest
← Back to the agendaBeaches, cliffs, museums, walks and good addresses to visit all year round.
Bourbourg
This building was designated a prison in 1550. Its facade, roof, and dungeons are listed as Historic Monuments. The building has served as a prison since the 16th century. Rebuilt in the 18th century, it still contains the jailer’s quarters, as well as the prisoners’ cells and dungeons. A unique and authentic place that immerses you in the prison world of days gone by.
Bergues
This is the third belfry built on this site. It was rebuilt in 1961 after being destroyed by fire (May 30, 1940) and then by dynamite (September 16, 1944) by the Germans. It largely follows the design of the previous belfry. As you climb the 206 steps, you can visit four themed exhibition halls. At a height of 47 meters, it features a magnificent open belfry housing the carillon’s 50 bells. At its summit stands Nicolas, the lion from the city’s coat of arms, serving as the weather vane. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 15, 2005, and featured in the 2008 film “Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis,” the Belfry now houses the Tourist Office, the Espace Beffroi, and vacation rentals. It is open to visitors in small groups of up to 19 people at a time, by scheduled time slot. For those who do not wish to climb the 206 steps, a virtual tour is available. Exceptional closures on the morning of December 2 and the afternoon of December 5.
Dunkerque
Built of a combination of red brick and stone, the belfry stands 75 meters tall. Above the central balcony stands an equestrian statue of Louis XIV, who repurchased the city from the English in 1662. A large stained-glass window depicting Jean Bart’s triumphant return after his victory at the Battle of Texel in 1694 illuminates the belfry. One elevator ride and 65 steps up, you can admire the carillon.
Gravelines
Fully integrated into City Hall, the belfry is visible only from the outside. It once housed the city’s dungeons, which have fortunately been replaced today by the municipal museum. The building, which stands 70 meters tall, rests on a very simple square tower. At the platform level, the first scrollwork decorations appear, and the fourth floor is adorned on each side with a mullioned window decorated with friezes. An octagonal lantern crowns the top and houses a two-metric-ton bell named Danièle, Marie, Pauline, Henriette—the first name of the donor’s mother, who funded the belfry’s reconstruction at the end of the 19th century.
Saint-Aubin
This blue stone farmhouse is believed to date from the late 12th century, based on the masonry of its walls, which is similar to that of the church in Dimont and the tower in Saint-Waast-la-Vallée.
Dunkerque
Dunkirk built its first City Hall in 1233 on the Place d’Armes, which later became the Place Charles-Valentin; a second one was built in 1564 but burned down in 1642; the third was rebuilt in 1644 and did not disappear until the end of the last century. The current building was designed by the Lille-based architect Louis Cordonnier with the aim of expanding the existing City Hall. Completed in 1901, it was solemnly inaugurated in the presence of Tsar Nicholas II and his wife. Destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt after the liberation in the same Flemish Renaissance style. It is constructed primarily of red brick and stone. Measuring 56 meters high and 27 meters wide, its belfry rises to a height of 75 meters. Six statues of figures who have left their mark on the city’s history adorn the façade. Its entrance is dominated by the majestic equestrian statue of Louis XIV, the work of the Lille-based sculptor Edgard Boutry, commemorating the fact that the city of Dunkirk became part of France thanks to the Sun King in 1662. Inside, a magnificent stained-glass window, created by the Parisian glass painter Félix Gaudin in 1898, depicts the return of Jean Bart after the Battle of Texel (1664), a victory that enabled him to recapture from the Dutch a flotilla of ships loaded with wheat purchased by France, thereby saving the country from famine. Dunkirk City Hall is not only known for its rich history. In fact, during the famous carnival, the mayor—assisted by a few fellow citizens—throws smoked herring from the balconies onto the cheering crowd every year.
Calais
It is across from Parc St. Pierre, on a large sandy area once known as “the Sahara Plain,” that the cities of Calais and St. Pierre decided to build Calais City Hall, a symbol of their reunification. Architect Louis Debrouwer initiated its construction in 1912. He decided to build the structure out of reinforced concrete and clad it with red hollow bricks from Kortrijk, as well as white stone sculptures. Built in the Neo-Flemish style, the building features a majestic 75-meter-tall belfry that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Its magnificent stained-glass windows depict the liberation of Calais from English rule by the Duke of Guise. The town hall is also well known as the venue for the wedding of General de Gaulle and Yvonne Vendroux. It houses the splendid wedding hall, the grand salon, the council chamber, and the ceremonial hall in the belfry.
Wimille
Standing 53.60 meters tall, the Column of the Grande Armée was erected by the soldiers of the Camp de Boulogne in honor of their leader, Napoleon. The first marble stone was laid in 1804. The construction, designed by architect Eloi Labarre, was not completed until 1840. At the top of the column stands a bronze statue of Emperor Napoleon, wearing the guard’s uniform he wore at Camp de Boulogne. The current statue, 5 meters tall and weighing 7,500 kg, was created by Pierre Stenne but has undergone numerous replacements. In fact, after the works by Houdon and Moitte were destroyed following the fall of the Empire, the sculptor Bosio created a statue of the emperor, which was unveiled in 1841. Then, during World War II, the column and its statue were severely damaged. Restoration work began in 1950, and the statue was replaced with Stenne’s version in 1962. As you stroll through the estate, you’ll come across busts of Napoleon, Marshal Soult, and Admiral Bruix in the archives room, and you’ll also have the chance to explore the gardens at the foot of the column, which has been classified as a historic monument since 1905.
Saint-Omer
The Saint-Omer train station opened on September 1, 1848; it is located on the Lille–Les Fontinettes and Saint-Omer–Hesdigneul lines. The current passenger terminal was inaugurated in 1902 to replace the previous one, which was dilapidated and lacked space; 82 years later, on December 28, 1984, it was designated a Historic Monument. Designed by architects Ligny, Vainet, and Aumont, it covers 2,020 m², spread across three buildings. Having suffered bombing during World War II, the station sustained some damage, but its reconstruction restored most of its original architecture. In 2007, the clock installed atop the station was destroyed by a storm. Today, the station is closed, but you can still admire the exterior of one of the most beautiful SNCF passenger stations in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region.
Dunkerque
Located in the heart of the city, Place Jean Bart—formerly known as Place Royale—is at the intersection of Boulevard Alexandre III, Boulevard Sainte Barbe, and Rue Clémenceau. In the center of this square stands a massive bronze statue erected in 1845, the work of David d’Angers. It depicts our hero Jean Bart as a privateer in the act of boarding an enemy ship, sword in hand, pointing toward England. Born in Dunkirk in 1650 to a family of sailors and the grandson of Admiral Jacobsen—nicknamed “the Fox of the Seas”—Jean Bart distinguished himself through his courage and skill. His squadron captured 386 ships, not counting those sunk, set ablaze, or ransomed. In 1694, Jean Bart’s reputation spread throughout France following the Battle of Texel: as famine had struck France, Jean Bart was tasked with recovering the goods extorted by Dutch privateers, a mission he successfully accomplished. His triumphant return is commemorated by the stained-glass window in City Hall. In this way, he saved France from famine. This feat earned him the esteem of Louis XIV, who ennobled him; he became Chevalier Bart and was also appointed commander of the Dunkirk navy. Jean Bart died of pneumonia at the age of 52 while inspecting a 70-gun ship built in Le Havre in Dunkirk; he is buried in the choir of Saint Eloi Church. It is his statue that made the square famous; this statue is honored during the carnival by the “masquelours,” who kneel before it in memory of the privateer.
Calais
This statue, depicting Charles de Gaulle holding hands with his wife, was unveiled on the 45th anniversary of his death. Inspired by a photograph of the couple visiting the city in 1959, it is the first sculptural depiction of a presidential couple. Nicknamed “Aunt Yvonne,” she married Charles de Gaulle on April 6 and 7, 1921, at Notre-Dame Church in Calais. A native of Calais, she was a beloved figure throughout France. This bronze statue, scaled at 1.5 times life-size, stands at the foot of the Guet Tower. Created by Nantes-based sculptor Elisabeth Cibot, who had previously created a statue of the general in 2006 on the square in front of Drancy City Hall in Seine-Saint-Denis.
Guînes
Just 10 minutes from Calais lies the engaging and interactive Clock Tower Museum. Open since 2002, this museum will take you on a journey through history in a very original way. From the arrival of the Viking Sifrid the Dane to the events of the Camp du Drap d’Or, you’ll have the chance to touch, smell, and even taste traditional life from that era. Your senses will be surprised in the museum’s first room. Then you’ll set off on an adventure aboard Sifrid’s life-size drakkar with his Vikings, leading you to a display of wax figures recounting the history of Guînes and its surroundings. The clock tower, built on a feudal motte in 1763, also awaits you with its panoramic view of the Opal Coast. Finally, your journey will come to an end in 1520, at the Camp du Drap d’Or, where Francis I and Henry VIII met. Perfect for families, the tour offers everyone a delightful experience combining interactive activities and engaging exhibits. Don’t leave without stopping by the gift shop, where you’ll find Renaissance-themed games as well as local specialties.
Calais
This 13th-century tower is one of the oldest buildings in Calais. Listed as a historic monument since 1931, it towers over the Place d’Armes from a height of 35 meters. Originally the centerpiece of the medieval castle, this tower served as a military observation post and later as a telegraph station—which announced the death of Napoleon I in 1821—as well as a lighthouse. Severely damaged by bombing during World War II, the tower had previously been split in two by an earthquake in 1580. During its reconstruction, its surroundings changed radically; the houses that once surrounded it and the old town hall were demolished. This square-based tower is built of yellow brick, known as “sand brick,” a traditional material of the coastal plain. The market has been held at its base since the 16th century. One might wonder whether the Tour du Guet is still a monument—a testament to the splendors and hardships the city has experienced—or already a sculpture, whose appearance and materials contrast with the austerity of the Place d’Armes.
Dunkerque
This 28-meter-tall octagonal tower is the oldest monument in Dunkirk. Built in 1405, it is the last of the 23 towers that flanked the ramparts erected by the Burgundians. Located along the line of the jetties, this tower served as the base for the first lighthouse, which came into use in 1793; a lantern was added in 1814. Designated a historic monument, the Leughenaer Tower—meaning “the liar’s tower” in Flemish—derives its name from several theories: * The people of Dunkirk used it to send false signals, thereby deceiving many ships that ran aground on the sandbars and were subsequently plundered. * The wind, which was always quite strong, caused the clock’s hands to spin, so the time displayed was never correct. * According to the official interpretation, light signals were sent or flags were waved from the tower to guide ships into the harbor; however, these signals were not always reliable and caused accidents in the channel. At the foot of the tower lies Minck Square, where fish have been sold at auction since the days of the Icelandic fishermen.
Boulogne-sur-Mer
Known as “El Libertador,” General José de San Martín was a true icon of the emancipation of Latin American countries then under Spanish rule, such as Argentina, his homeland, Chile, and Peru. After refusing to take power, he left for Europe with his daughter, Mercedes, his son-in-law, and his two granddaughters. Considered persona non grata in France, he took up residence in Brussels. Following the fall of Charles X, San Martín moved to France. After another revolution and fleeing the riots in Paris, he decided to leave for England. It was on this occasion that he discovered Boulogne. Charmed by the city, he remained there until his death on August 17, 1850. It was at the initiative of a few compatriots who had come to Boulogne that the idea of a tribute took root. After raising funds through public subscription in both Paris and Buenos Aires, the 8.70- meter-tall statue was completed in nine months by the sculptor Henri Allouard and unveiled on October 24, 1901. Crafted in bronze on a stone pedestal, it depicts the Libertador carrying a flag on a trotting horse, with “La République” at his feet offering him a laurel wreath. On the other side of the statue are numerous military symbols such as sabers, cannons, and rifles. You can also visit his residence in Boulogne, located at 113 Grande Rue. This is the Casa San Martín, which has now become the Libertador San Martín Museum.
Aire-sur-la-Lys
Since its construction in 1600, this façade in Aire-sur-la-Lys has become a must-see. Pierre Framery, its architect, was inspired by Amsterdam’s old city hall, which no longer exists. The construction, which took only a single year, was completed so quickly that the building became structurally fragile over time, leading to numerous restorations over the years, including one in 2015. The Baillage takes its name from the town’s former court; at the time, the Baillis were local authorities. Built in a Flemish-style Renaissance design, it has served as the headquarters of the tourist office since 1970. A true architectural gem, it features three and four arches supported by slender stone columns; its three facades and attics are adorned with sublime depictions of the theological and cardinal virtues, the four elements, and a statue. The interior, meanwhile, comprises four rooms: the cellar, the main hall, the small hall, and the attic. Designated a Historic Monument in 1886, this building is sure to delight you, both for its history and its beauty.
Boulogne-sur-Mer
Standing 47 meters tall, the belfry towers over the old town of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Originally the keep of the first castle of the Counts of Boulogne before being converted into a belfry, this massive structure commands respect and sparks curiosity. Indeed, the architectural evolution of the city’s oldest building bears witness to the eventful history of France’s leading fishing port: * In the 12th century, it was a Romanesque structure featuring eight large pointed-arch windows and a thatched spire. * In the following century, King Louis IX ordered the demolition of the upper section after the bourgeoisie of Boulogne refused to finance the Crusades. * Following a fire in 1712, the old roof, crowned with dormers, was replaced by the current octagonal upper story in 1920. * In 1933, the dwellings that had enclosed it were demolished. Watchtower, prison, bell tower… the belfry fulfilled all its defensive functions until the death of the last watchman in 1931. Today, the belfry houses a museum featuring a collection of Gallo-Roman statuettes and antique furniture crafted in Boulogne. Designated a historic monument in 1926, it is now flanked by the 18th-century city hall, built of stone and pink brick. Inside the town hall, visitors can see the city’s coat of arms carved beneath the roof, as well as beautiful rooms such as the “Governors’ Hall” and the “Wedding Hall,” which are open to the public. Guided tours are available in French, English, and German upon request at the tourist office.
Watten
The Watten Mill was built using stone from the former Watten Abbey, which was designated a historic monument in 1909. Replacing the previous wooden mill, it remained in operation until 1930; after being abandoned, it lost two sails in a storm. During World War II, in 1940, the mill served as an observation post for German troops. Taken over by the town in 1985, it was restored—with a new roof and new sails—and put back into operation for your enjoyment. You can visit the mill during the summer months and learn much more about its history. It’s a real treat to be able to admire this mill, the pride of Watten, which has been listed as a Historic Monument since November 2, 1977.
Berck
Come rediscover the sweetness of your childhood by visiting the authentic family-run shop “Le Succès Berckois.” Located on Rue Carnot, this business run by passionate artisan confectioners will introduce you to all the secrets behind the traditional craftsmanship behind the berlingots and lollipops that our grandmothers enjoyed as children. Founded in 1922, the company was already sharing the art of making these little treats with tourists and customers. Since then, the tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, and group tours began to take off around 1985. In 2002, the shop moved to larger premises, and educational exhibits on sugar were set up. From pouring sugar onto marble slabs to cutting the lollipops with scissors and adding flavors, take part in the art of crafting the candies of our childhood. Whether you’re visiting alone or in a group, the factory will teach you about the history of sugar, from ancient Egypt to the present day, and invite you to experience the joy of creating your own lollipop.
Calais
Like City Hall, the theater was built following the merger of the cities of Calais and St. Pierre in 1885. Émile Loubet, President of the French Republic, laid the cornerstone in 1903, accompanied by Mr. Basset, mayor of Calais. Construction then began under the supervision of architect Malgras-Delmas. Built in the Louis XIV style, the façade features four groups of columns on the first floor; if you look closely, you’ll notice four statues representing the four performing arts (comedy, poetry, music, and dance). On the second floor, you’ll also notice four busts honoring the playwrights Alain-René Lesage, Guillaume Pigault-Lebrun, Pierre de Belloy, and the composer Pierre-Alexandre Monsigny. Modeled after the Palais Garnier, this theater—ranked third in France since its inauguration—features a 1,400-seat auditorium arranged in a horseshoe shape, a 100-square-meter stage, and excellent acoustics. The 83 operas that inspired the sets have made this sumptuous Baroque-style theater one of the most beautiful in France. Located on Place Albert Ier, it stands next to the “Le Jacquard” monument, dedicated to the memory of Joseph Jacquard, famous for his contributions to the development of lace—a true treasure of the city of Calais. In addition to a rich and varied program, the theater offers guided tours that will delight visitors of all ages, giving them the privilege of exploring the dressing rooms or stepping onto the stage—just like the great artists who, for the duration of the tour, find themselves at the top of the bill.
Calais
As you stroll through the gardens of City Hall, you’ll come across “The Six Burghers of Calais.” This life-size bronze monument is one of Auguste Rodin’s most famous works. The sculpture depicts six residents of Calais (Eustache de Saint Pierre, Jacques and Pierre de Wissant, Jean de Fiennes, Andrieu d’Andres, and Jean d’Aire). In 1346, while the city of Calais had been holding out for nearly a year against the English siege, King Edward III of England agreed to let six burghers hand over the keys to the city to him, barefoot, in their nightshirts, a noose around their necks, and be executed in order to restore freedom to the starving inhabitants of Calais. However, the Queen of England, Philippine of Hainaut, was so moved by the sight of these six unfortunate men that she asked her husband for permission to spare them from hanging. And so she saved these six men, who had been chosen to deliver the city of Calais. The city fell to the English after the second siege by the Duke of Burgundy, but it was thanks to the victory of the Duke of Guise in 1558 that it returned to France.
Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Le Touquet’s architecture combines both urban and seaside characteristics, enhanced by exposed beams and stonework, giving the town the tranquility and serenity that make it so appealing. Louis Quételart, Anatole Bienaimé, Horace Pouillet, Louis Cordonnier, Arsène Bical... renowned architects of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, all of whom worked on the seaside resort of Le Touquet, designing villas that are eclectic in both style and materials. While some villas feature very unique characteristics—such as an underground garage, evoking the house’s connection to the ground, or a “Y”-shaped floor plan—others display an anthropomorphic aesthetic in the style of the 1930s. Inspired by English architecture in their gardens, or featuring Neo-Norman or Neo-Medieval styles, some villas are even listed on the supplementary inventory of historic monuments. This site thus offers an introduction to the history of modern architecture. If you’re captivated by these historic homes, head to Le Touquet to explore them...
Dunkerque
Fishing has a long history in Dunkirk! Fishermen’s wives (known as “Bazennes”) were already selling fish at the Minck as early as the 18th century. Starting in 1863, the Minck became home to a covered market. In 1902, a covered building was inaugurated and became the fish auction hall, where the women continued to sell fish. That building didn’t survive World War II, but the stalls are still there, and you can buy fish from Dunkirk’s fishermen at unbeatable prices! Four stalls are regularly open. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until supplies last. Credit cards not accepted.
Pitgam
At the beginning of the 20th century, Pitgam still had three post mills: the mill known as Pitgam Plaetse, the South Mill, and the Den Leeuw Mill. The Den Leeuw Mill, or Lion Mill, is of standard size, measuring 5 meters by 3.60 meters in width. The roof has a typical Flemish design. It belonged to Guillaume DELABAERE and his family until it was sold in 1923 to Lucien DENDRAEL. He leased it to various millers until 1946. The Germans then used it as an observation post and cut an opening in the roof, which marked the beginning of the mill’s decline.It was left to fall into disrepair for about forty years before being saved at the last minute in 1970 and designated a Historic Monument, though the base was in poor condition. Toppled by a storm in 1983, the mill cage fell to the ground and broke apart. It was sold by the descendants to the town in 1984. The mill is now operational. It is open to visitors during Heritage Days (the third weekend in September). Fun fact: The mayor volunteered to rebuild the mill with the help of ARAM. In 1988, the drive shaft was completely refurbished. On August 19, 1989, the sails were installed, and the mill was officially inaugurated on September 3, 1988.
Hondschoote
Tours of the mill are scheduled during the season. Outside of these dates, tours are available by reservation. The SPINNEWYN Mill, or Moulin de la Victoire, was built in 1993 in memory of the gendarmes who took part in the Battle of Hondschoote (1793). In September 1793, an Anglo-Hanoverian coalition sought to invade Republican France to restore the monarchy. To this end, English troops laid siege to Dunkirk. Called to the rescue, the French army, led by General Houchard, valiantly repelled a Hanoverian offensive in the Hondschoote area. The decisive assault took place at the foot of a windmill—the SPINNEWYN windmill—by men of the 32nd Gendarmerie Division, who saved France from invasion. A century later, the menacing SPINNEWYN mill was torn down. To fittingly celebrate the bicentennial of the Battle of Hondschoote, it was decided in the early 1990s to rebuild the mill at the foot of which the gendarmes had distinguished themselves. The SPINNEWYN mill is a pivot-type windmill. Inside, a set of millstones is used to produce flour, exclusively during local festivals.
Saint-Aubin
A well with a ground-level rim and a pump on the Tarsy. They were restored in the spring of 2010.
Grand-Fort-Philippe
The Jannin Smokehouse in Grand Fort Philippe carries on a centuries-old tradition: artisanal fish smoking. After a tour of the workshop, the owner will invite you to sample his products. Rediscover the true taste of smoked fish!
Dunkerque
Built in 1881, this small painted wooden house is home to the Environmental Center and marks the entrance to Rosendaël’s Excentric neighborhood, which features eclectic and sometimes whimsical architecture.