Sea breeze, whelks, and sunbathing – welcome to the Opal Coast and the Somme Bay!

No need to travel all the way to the Mediterranean to hear the waves crash and spot seagulls. The Opal Coast is that charming stretch of northern French shoreline where cliffs brush the clouds and beach huts strike a pose without even trying. Between Bray-Dunes and Berck-sur-Mer, there’s a bit of everything: elegant seaside resorts, fishing villages steeped in sea air, endless dunes—and even seals. Head further south and you’ll reach the Baie de Somme, a vast natural expanse of sand, water, marshes, pebbles, and dune hills. A truly unique landscape where the sky melts into the sea, it has long inspired artists and writers like Delacroix, Degas, Colette, and Victor Hugo.

Recognized as a “Grand Site de France,” the Baie de Somme is also a major sanctuary for migratory birds and a haven of ecological richness. The weather? One day it’s bright sunshine, the next a gentle sea mist rolls in. But that’s exactly the charm of the place: you gear up, go with the flow, and savor every break in the clouds to wander along a beach that stretches for miles. It’s unpretentious escapism—warming fries, windswept walks, and landscapes that make you want to slow down and just breathe.

Local experts Nicolas and Jérémy are full of great recommendations — and more than happy to share. For a touch of heritage, Montreuil-sur-Mer is a must: stroll its medieval ramparts, wander through charming alleys, and admire 18th-century mansions. Don’t miss the scenic walkway along the old fortifications, offering stunning views over the Canche river. Craving peace and quiet? Head to the gardens of Château d’Hardelot or the Lac des Miroirs — serene, soul-soothing spots perfect for unwinding. Hikers will love the Chemin des Juifs trail through the Écault forest, where nature and history intertwine.

Looking for something a bit different? At low tide, the beach at Dannes comes alive with the quiet choreography of mussel farmers working the traditional bouchot poles. Foodies will be in heaven here: Biscuiterie d’Hardelot for classic cookies, Chocolaterie de Beussent for handcrafted chocolates, La Ferme du XVIIᵉ for local cheeses, Brasserie Chromatique for craft beer, and Nicole’s homemade ice cream in Wimereux, Boulogne, or Hardelot. And of course, no visit is complete without a stop at the local markets in Le Touquet, Étaples, or Boulogne-sur-Mer — perfect for fresh produce, a salty breeze, and the warm welcome of local vendors.

Le Touquet, the chic little gem of the Opal Coast, where every day begins with a breath of fresh sea air. Holidays here have a slightly salty, delightfully refined flavor. For your stay, go local and book one of Les Villas du Touquet — like La Cape Cod or La Touquettoise.

Le Touquet, c’est aussi la plage version grand spectacle : immense, vivante, et parfaite pour se défouler ou buller selon l’humeur du jour. Les plus téméraires s’élancent en char à voile ou en kite surf, pendant que d’autres préfèrent lézarder au soleil). Les enfants, eux, filent tout droit vers les clubs animés et leurs châteaux gonflables XXL. Et quand le soleil commence à tirer sa révérence, place aux pique-niques sur le sable, version tribu.

To explore the area, start by getting pleasantly lost among the stalls of Le Touquet’s market, then treat yourself to something sweet from Au Chat Bleu. When it’s time to eat, Le Mezquité brings sunshine to your plate, while La Base Nord is a hit with seafood lovers. For dreamers and ocean romantics, Sur Mer is a must — perfect for a cozy dinner with a sea breeze twist. Between meals? Stroll along the Baie de la Canche or wander through La Madelaine-sous-Montreuil, a timeless village full of charm. Feeling adventurous? Head to Hardelot for a dose of château, forest, or beach — whatever suits your mood.

The Baie de Somme is a secret haven for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone chasing sunsets that outshine the last. A vast expanse of water, sand, and sky where seals and fishermen peacefully share the landscape.

Here, time stretches like a lazy beach stroll, guided by the rhythm of the tides. Every turn reveals something new — a winding trail, a wildflower meadow, or a charming village. With endless cycling paths, colorful markets, cozy seaside eateries, and adventures by train or canoe, it’s all about savoring simple pleasures and local gems.

On foot or by bike, set out to explore the must-see spots recommended by Jenny and Tristan, proud owners of Maison Maa. Just a short (and scenic) stroll along the canal takes you to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, a charming medieval town where wandering is practically an art form. Between Rue de la Ferté and the Jeanne d’Arc gate, you’ll roam with the breeze in your hair, eventually reaching the Mariners’ Chapel. On the way back, it’s impossible to resist a stop at the market — free-range chicken, fresh veggies, and buttery pastries from the Waterloo bakery all find their way into your basket. Bonus: a bouquet of flowers under your arm and that warm, fuzzy feeling of becoming a local in no time.

And that’s just the beginning. Food lovers will be spoiled in Saint-Valery: from the delightful Théodose to the hip Amazone Café, not to mention the Italian flavors at Jardin Italien. After lunch, take a stroll through Parc du Marquenterre, watch seals at Le Hourdel, or go canoeing or cycling if you're feeling active. Nostalgia buffs can hop aboard the charming vintage train. And as the day winds down, raise a glass at La Cabine de Mouné in Cayeux-sur-Mer — toes in the sand, eyes on the lighthouse.