France's northernmost department, bordering Belgium, the North surprises by its wealth. Between its varied landscapes, land and sea, its high places of culture, its beautiful cities and its gastronomy, your stay promises you many moments of delight.
From Dunkerque to Bray-Dunes, the northern coastline is made up of vast stretches of sand that invite you to many activities. Stroll along the Bray-Dunes dam and enjoy the beautiful seaside villas that border it. Then join the long beaches of Leffrinckoucke and Malo-les Bains to learn about sand yachting. Discover the wild beach of Zuydcoote and, in the heart of the Grand site of the Dunes of Flanders, explore the paths of the Dune Marchand nature reserve. But also offer yourself a moment of relaxation in the pretty resort of Petit-Fort-Philippe which proposes, at high tide, a spot very appreciated by the amateurs of kitesurfing.
After having enjoyed the seaside, discover the beautiful cities of the North. Fourth largest city in France, Lille is an essential detour during a stay in the department. In Old Lille, you will appreciate the 18th century houses, Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille cathedral with its strange façade and the Countess hospice. Around the Grand'Place, admire the Vieille Bourse, Gilles de la Boë's house and the 15th and 16th century Rihour palace. Then go to the Palais des Beaux-Arts which ranks among the greatest museums in France. Finally, visit the citadel that Vauban called the "queen of citadels" and enjoy the magnificent green spaces of the Boulogne woods next to it.
Many other northern cities deserve special attention. Discover in particular the city of Art and History of Douai for its magnificent belfry, its fortifications and its collegiates Saint-Pierre and Saint-Amé. Then visit Cambrai (belfry, cathedral, castle of Selles) and Valenciennes (town hall, Jesuit library, museum). If you want greenery, go to Avesnois, the "Petite Normandie du Nord". Between bocage, forests, rivers and lakes, you can recharge your batteries, walk or cycle along numerous paths, and discover typical villages like Eppe-Sauvage. But also take advantage of the department to taste the famous northern gastronomy and its many specialties : carbonade, potjevleesch, maroilles tart, welsh, speculoos cake, beer...
