Campsites in Nord-Pas-de-Calais

This historic northern region is the first port-of-call for ferry travellers from the UK.

Popular camping styles for Nord-Pas-de-Calais

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Campsites in Nord-Pas-de-Calais guide

Overview

The northernmost tip of France is fringed by the wild beaches and wind-sculpted cliffs of the English Channel, with the Belgian border to the north. Today, the historic region of Nord-Pas de Calais has been split into two departments―Nord and Pas-de-Calais―but the spirit of the north remains intact. Whether you want to dive into Flemish culture in the capital of French Flanders, hike along soaring white-chalk sea cliffs, or follow in the footsteps of WWI soldiers, France’s final frontier proposes a camping trip like no other. All within a short ferry or train ride from the UK.

Where to go

Opal Coast

The port city of Calais is the closest ferry port to the UK (just 90 minutes) and the terminal of the Channel Tunnel, making it the obvious starting point for exploring. To the south, the Opal Coast runs down to Berck, harbouring some of France’s wildest coastline. Towering white-chalk cliffs frame the horizon at Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, bird-filled marshlands await in the Marais d’Opale Regional Natural Park, or you can head to the sandy beaches of Boulogne-sur-Mer and Le Touquet.

Pas-de-Calais

The Somme River is the lifeblood of the Pas-de-Calais department, dotted with historic towns and WWI sites. Head to Amiens to cruise around the scenic canal ways and floating gardens, explore the UNESCO-listed citadel of Arras, and visit the Louvre-Lens museum in nearby Lens. Along the Somme, there are ample opportunities to camp, paddle, and fish, and the coastal towns of Abbeville and Saint-Valery-sur-Somme are equally worth a visit.

North Sea Coast

The short slice of coastline north of Calais looks out across the North Sea. This is where you’ll find France’s northernmost beaches, including the fortified seaport of Gravelines with its sandy shores and pretty blue-and-white beach cabins. To the east, the Channel port of Dunkirk is best known as the site of the largest-ever sea evacuation during WWI, and a visit to the Dunkirk 1940 Museum and Allied Memorial is essential.

Nord

The Hauts de France capital, Lille, is the gateway to the northernmost department, and the city’s Flemish culture is so strong, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d already crossed the Belgian border. Speaking of which, day trips between the two countries are a popular choice, especially if you’re following the WWI trail. Alternatively, enjoy walking and kayaking around the wetlands in the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park or escape to the forested trails of the Avesnois Regional Nature Park.

Top regions near Nord-Pas-de-Calais

Top cities in and near Nord-Pas-de-Calais

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