Nord-Pas-de-Calais (France)

Just over the border from Belgium and a hop across the Channel from England lies the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. Only two hours from Paris, London or Brussels, discover the 120 kilometres of fine sandy beaches, sand dunes and cliffs that stretch along the Côte d'Opale from Calais to Berck-sur-Mer. The many and varied landscapes of the Pas-de-Calais are so authentique. From the Audomarois marshlands to the peace and quiet of the Ternois and 7 Vallées dales. From meadows to marshes an atmosphere of complete relaxation and contentment with time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The bourgeois towns of Béthune and Arras, steeped in Flemish and a little Spanish influences, mark out the limits of a vast territory which covers the Artois plains, the coal mining country and agricultural villages. This land lived through the bitter WWI war where today hundreds of small cemeteries and white crosses stand as souvenirs to the fierce fighting which took place in the area. A region of contrasting landscapes: forests and woods, gentle meadows and marshlands, rolling hills dotted with windmills, a varied coastline that stretches for miles and miles, wide-open spaces of unspoilt countryside that make up the Regional Natural Parks, a network of waterways for river cruising, and much, much more... It is a region proud of its traditions where fairs, fêtes and festivals are so much a part of daily life. Steeped in history, discover the rich heritage of region's monuments, museums and historic cities dating from Roman times to the last World Wars. France is famous for its wonderful gastronomy and the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region is no exception with fine examples of mouthwatering regional specialities as well as numerous locally brewed beers.