Hauts-de-France: Welcome to France’s Northernmost Region
The Hauts-de-France region, formed in 2016 by merging Nord–Pas-de-Calais and Picardy, stretches across five departments—Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais, and Somme. It offers visitors an appealing blend of historic battlefields, rolling countryside, and vibrant coastal cities.
Historic Landmarks and World War I Sites
- WWI Battlefields of the Somme: Step back into 1916 at the Somme’s trenches and memorials, including the Thiepval Memorial.
- Vimy Memorial: A poignant tribute to Canadian forces, perched on ridge grounds that shaped the war’s outcome.
- Château de Chantilly: A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, famed for its art collection and manicured grounds.
- Basilica of Saint-Quentin: A Gothic centerpiece with stained-glass windows and centuries of French Catholic heritage.
Landscapes: From Cliffs to Countryside
- Opal Coast Beaches: Sweeping sandy shores—ideal for long walks, windsurfing, or simply taking in the sea air.
- Ardennes Forests and Hills: Lush greenery, serene lakes, and hiking trails define the region’s eastern boundary.
- Regional Nature Parks: Avesnois and Caps et Marais d’Opale preserve wetlands, woodlands, and diverse wildlife habitats.
Culinary Traditions and Festivals
- Cheeses: Maroilles and Boulette d’Avesnes are local favorites, each delivering robust flavors unique to the region.
- Signature Dishes: Try carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer) or tarte au sucre (a sweet regional pie).
- Local Festivals and Events:
- Lille Flea Market (Braderie de Lille): Europe’s biggest flea market, held each September, transforms the city streets into a shopper’s paradise.
- Amiens Jazz Festival: A lively annual gathering celebrating music in the shadow of the city’s towering Gothic cathedral.
Getting There
- By Train: High-speed rail links major Hauts-de-France cities with Paris, London, Brussels, and beyond.
- By Air: Regional airports connect to various European destinations.
- By Ferry: Calais offers cross-channel service from England’s southern ports, providing a scenic arrival into northern France.
- By Car: Well-maintained highways and scenic routes make road-tripping convenient.
Lille: An Underrated Gem
Once a medieval hub of the County of Flanders, Lille (France’s fourth-largest city) features:
- Grand Place and Old Town: Stroll the cobblestone streets lined with Flemish-inspired façades.
- Palais des Beaux-Arts: France’s second-largest art museum after the Louvre.
- Historic Legacy: Annexed by Louis XIV, ravaged in both World Wars, then reinvented as a cultural capital in the 21st century.
- Transportation: Eurostar service, an international airport, and local metro lines connect Lille to the rest of Europe.
Amiens: Gothic Splendor and Local Flavors
Amiens, located in the Somme department, brims with historic and cultural appeal:
- Amiens Cathedral: The tallest Gothic cathedral in France, outshining even Notre-Dame in height.
- Local Cuisine: Sample almond biscuits, savory puff pastries, and duck pâté in the quaint town center.
- Jules Verne Connection: The famed author married an Amiens native and served on the city council.
- Modern Vibe: Its university campus revitalized the area after war damage, creating a lively blend of old and new.
Whether you come for the powerful World War I history, the Flemish flair in Lille, or the sweeping beaches of the Opal Coast, Hauts-de-France rewards travelers with heartfelt hospitality, hearty cuisine, and centuries of cultural riches.
Visit the Hauts-de-France official tourism website for further information.