Cycling adventure

Episode 1: Saint-Valery-sur-Somme ➔ Le Crotoy

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A real surprise even before arriving at Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. Once a towpath, this greenway runs alongside the "Somme canalisée", a relaxing walk in the middle of a green setting. Along the way, you'll find lovely viewpoints and plenty of rest areas, ideal if you've packed a picnic! From Abbeville, this route takes you directly to the port of Saint-Valery.

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Departure from Abbeville

An impromptu departure from the Somme department in Abbeville, heading for Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.

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Start of the Saint-Valery-sur-Somme - Le Crotoy route

Top off from the pretty quays of Saint-Valery. Be careful, here the pace is slow and you have to get along with pedestrians. Opposite you is Le Crotoy, with the two towns facing each other across the bay.

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In the heart of the bay

A cycle route took me across the magnificent Bay of the Somme, offering a picturesque experience between lush green countryside and vast expanses of salt meadows. Following this route, I had the opportunity to discover some charming little villages while riding along superb country roads lined with pastures and lush meadows.

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The Alfred Manessier promenade

Quite simply my favourite part of this stage! It's a lovely track that gives you an unbeatable view of the bay. In places, there are steps leading down to the sandy stretches, the perfect spot to watch the sun set.

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Hôtel Les Tourelles, Le Crotoy

For the night, I recommend the Hôtel Les Tourelles, with its cosy atmosphere and exceptional view over the Bay! The breakfast will be perfectly balanced before you set off on the slopes. There's even a shelter where you can leave your bike overnight and a bike hire service.

Episode 2: Le Crotoy ➔ Quend Plage Watch

18.6 km

After the first stage, organised in collaboration with the Terres & Merveilles Baie de Somme Tourist Office, Quentin is back on the road for a second exciting stage. On the programme: new discoveries, breathtaking scenery and, of course, the chance to meet some wonderful people.

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The Crotoy dyke

We set off from the Crotoy breakwater to continue my cycling adventure.

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Domaine de Diane

After a day full of discoveries, Domaine de Dianne is the ideal place for a well-deserved break. This haven of peace invites you to relax by its swimming pool, offering a moment of serenity in the middle of your adventure. This holiday village at the gateway to the Bay of Sommes offers a bike hire service for children and adults, as well as electrically assisted bikes.

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Sunset on Quend Plage

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Have a drink at Le Bb's Bar

Finally, to round off this exceptional day, there's nothing like a drink at Le Bb's Bar. This friendly venue is the perfect place to meet locals, swap travel anecdotes, and create lasting memories with new friends.

Episode 3: Quend Plage ➔ Le Touquet-Paris-Plage Watch

Last pedal strokes in the Somme department and the sublime Marquenterre, from where Quentin will be leaving with his head full of memories. On today's programme: heading north towards Le Touquet-Paris-Plage for an adventure full of twists and turns, unexpected discoveries and emotions for Quentin!

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Quend-Plage-Les-Pins

On the way, you immediately understand the name of the village you've just left: the vélomaritime sits quietly on a dune, covered by a pine forest!

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Fort Mahon Plage

The vélomaritime takes us through the seaside resort of Fort Mahon Plage. We're taking advantage of our last few pedal strokes in the Somme and Marquenterre to make a short stop at the tourist office to discover this peaceful town at the end of the summer season.

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The pebble bridge footbridge

The quality of the cycle route's facilities makes it easy and enjoyable. Crossing the brand-new pebble bridge, you enter the Pas-de-Calais département and set off to discover the Bay of Authie.

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The Authie Bay

The ideal place to recharge your batteries in contact with nature. And what nature! Its landscapes, organised around mollières (salt meadows), estrans (beaches) and dunes, are a haven of peace that a colony of grey seals and seal calves regularly choose to settle in.

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Berck

Let's face it, the surest way to get to Berck and avoid the traffic jams during busy periods is by bike! This famous seaside resort, the birthplace of thalassotherapy, has everything to offer! Shops, fast-food and gourmet restaurants, accommodation, a magnificent beach and plenty of fun and sport on offer. Visit the Tourist Office.

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Stella plage

An early 20th-century seaside resort belonging to the commune of Cucq, which takes its name from its star-shaped radioconcentric town plan (Stella), this is the last stop before arriving at Le Touquet-Paris-plage, which you can reach via the Vélomaritime or the beach. The sandy foreshore is uninterrupted from Stella-Plage to Le Touquet! Kilometres of fine sandy beach await you!

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Le Touquet

Take your time in Le Touquet. This seaside resort, otherwise known as the resort of the four seasons, has a particularly rich architectural heritage. With 21 buildings protected as historic monuments, it is France's most honoured resort! But that's far from being its only asset. Kilometres of lanes and cycle paths, as well as many other activities and amenities, await you.

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Le Touquet-Paris-Plage Tourist Office

See you at the Tourist Office!

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Canche lighthouse

The 274-step Canche lighthouse offers an exceptional panoramic view of the turret and the Bay of Canche.

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The North Base

Situated almost on the edge of the mouth of the River Canche, the Base Nord and its Baie de Canche nautical centre offer an ideal vantage point overlooking a wild, natural area with sublime landscape qualities. Perfect for a moment of meditation.

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Hotel Novotel Thalassa Le Touquet

Like a ship lying on the sand, the Thalassa sea & spa welcomes you into its hull with every attention to detail, to offer you a stay that matches the scenery it gives you to see.

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Jean's Cafe

Le Touquet's iconic restaurant, brasserie and bar. A magical setting, in a 'so British' style combining a clever mix of brass, leather and wood.the cuisine is a reflection of the people who welcome you here: authentic and warm.special mention to Isabelle, the owner, whose humanity is matched only by her kindness.

Episode 4: Étaples-sur-Mer ➔ Hardelot

The cycling adventure - stage 4: Quentin continues his journey on the Vélomaritime towards Hardelot and its castle! On today's programme: the discovery of a fishing port with a rich history, a little rain, and more discoveries and encounters.

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C'beau C'bleu

An unusual bed and breakfast! Meet Virginie, a colourful character with boundless generosity. Virginie is an artist with boundless ideas. Discover her world, her creations and an atmosphere you won't find anywhere else.

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Étaples-sur-mer

At the other end of the "pink bridge" from Le Touquet, the town of Etaples welcomes you with open arms. Etaples has long lived by the rhythm of the tides and the fishing industry, and invites you to discover its rich history through its heritage and facilities. Let yourself be carried away by the Vélomaritime, which winds its way peacefully through this port town.

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Étaples-sur-Mer Tourist Office

Once you've entered Etaples, a few pedal strokes along the Vélomaritime itinerary will take you to the Tourist Office, where you'll be greeted by a dynamic and friendly team of tourist advisors who'll tell you everything you need to know about what to see and do in this surprising town.

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Maréis

A stop at Maréis is a must if you want to find out more about the activity that has made Etaples what it is today for 2,000 years: sea fishing. An immersive exhibition and aquariums displaying no fewer than 500 species of marine animals await you! Ready for a sea-flavoured visit?

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Planet Ocean

Come aboard the Planète Océan and enjoy a trip to the open sea that you'll remember for a long time to come! Enjoy the terrace with its panoramic view over the Baie de Canche, where you can savour dishes expertly prepared in the restaurant's ovens.

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The bay of canche

The Bay of Canche is an exceptional natural area, part of which, situated on the right bank of the river, is protected by a nature reserve. The silting up of the Bay of Canche by progradation explains why the fishing port has been transformed into a marina. Take advantage of this moment of peace to take a deep breath of fresh iodised air!

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Étaples military cemetery

With 11,517 graves, Etaples Military Cemetery is the largest British cemetery in France and a place of remembrance managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), bringing together those who fell on the fields of honour during the First and Second World Wars.

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Sainte-Cécile Beach

A seaside resort belonging to the municipality of Camiers, whose village lies inland. Situated to the north of the Baie de Canche nature reserve, it offers landscapes tinged with nature that will comfort you in any situation.

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Hardelot

A seaside resort belonging to the municipality of Neufchâtel Hardelot and surrounded by numerous protected natural sites: the Ecault dunes, the Ecault forest, the regional nature reserve of the Condette marsh, the Hardelot forest and the dunes of Mont Saint-Frieux - an exceptional site to be discovered as a matter of urgency!

Episode 5: Hardelot ➔ Boulogne-sur-Mer

The cycling adventure - stage 5: Autumn is beginning to set in, but the weather remains fine for Quentin! On today's programme: a maritime bike that is still revealing its secrets, offering Quentin some wonderful moments of introspection.

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Hôtel du Parc

With the Hôtel du Parc, the NAJETI group offers you the perfect setting for a stay with friends, lovers or family. Its warm, friendly atmosphere will make you forget the miles you've trudged to get here.

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Hardelot Castle

The Opal Coast's must-see cultural and walking destination! Managed by the Pas-de-Calais department, this cultural institution is dedicated to promoting relations between France and England.

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The Lake of Mirrors

Just a stone's throw from the Château d'Hardelot lies the heart of the Condette marshes regional nature reserve: the Lake of Mirrors, which has undergone major redevelopment work to restore it to its former natural state. A place for introspection not to be missed.

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Ecault State Forest

Leaving Hardelot, the vélomaritime takes you through the Ecault national forest. A popular destination for walkers, the forest invites you to awaken your senses. The scent of the maritime pines and the song of the birds provide a particularly enchanting setting.

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Boulogne-sur-Mer

Welcome to France's leading fishing port! But that's not its only asset, as Boulogne-sur-Mer is one of the leading tourist destinations in the Hauts-de-France region. Leave your bike in one of the town's veloboxes, secure bike shelters, and set off to discover this surprising city.

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Nausicaá - National Maritime Centre

Quite simply the largest aquarium in Europe. Aboard this ship, a veritable giant of the seas ("naus" meaning "ship" in Greek), you'll plunge into the heart of an adventure devoted to man's relationship with the sea: a surprising and soothing ride that will also make you aware of the need to respect the marine and coastal worlds.

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Residence La Marina - Evancy Boulogne-sur-Mer

A stone's throw from the port of Boulogne-sur-mer, almost opposite the Bassin Napoléon, Evancy - La Marina is the ideal place to relax while taking a deep breath of sea air.

Episode 6: Boulogne-sur-Mer ➔ Wissant Watch

The cycling adventure - stage 6: Quentin, still on the vélomaritime, is now just a few kilometres from the territory of a legendary animal. In the meantime, he's enjoying the magnificently illuminated landscapes of the Côte d'Opale. On today's programme: breathtaking beaches and cliffs and a meaningful encounter. Find out now...

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The Fort de la Crèche

As well as being a magnificent place, the Opal Coast was also a strategic location. The many buildings that can be seen along the coastline bear witness to this. Most often part of the bunkers that formed part of the Atlantic Wall during the Second World War, some are older, such as the Fort de la Crèche, whose history dates back to the time of Napoleon 1st. A historic and natural site that's well worth a visit.

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Wimereux

A few kilometres north of Boulogne-sur-Mer lies Wimereux, the oldest seaside resort on the Côte d'Opale, created during the Second Empire. This commune has everything you need.

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La pointe aux Oies

The landscapes of the Côte d'Opale are breathtaking, you may have realised it or you may already know it, but the Pointe aux Oies is definitely one of the places you must visit! Many artists, painters, poets and writers have been deeply influenced by the incredible luminosity and colours of this coastline. Didn't Victor Hugo write that the most beautiful landscapes in the world are to be found walking between Boulogne and Calais?

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Ambleteuse and its fort

After crossing the splendid dunes of the Slack, the vélomaritime will take you to Ambleteuse and its Fort. This small seaside resort is steeped in history thanks to its strategic position. The Fort, built by Vauban, is proof of this. Today, it is managed and run by an association that gives you the chance to visit it.

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Audresselles

Audresselles is one of the eight communes of the Grand Site des Deux Caps. If you're heading towards Wissant, this village is a great place to take a break before reaching Cap Gris-Nez. This former fishing village is now a popular seaside resort full of charm.

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Cap Gris-Nez

These greyish sandstone cliffs give it its name. Located in the commune of Audinghen, which is its gateway, Cap Gris-Nez is one of the closest coastal points to England, at just 30.3 kilometres, and is one of the most emblematic sites on the Opal Coast, attracting huge numbers of visitors every year. Make the most of its magnificent viewpoint to take a breather after the somewhat strenuous climb!

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Cap Gris-Nez lighthouse

Continue your exploration of Cap Gris-Nez and visit its lighthouse. 31m high and culminating at a height of 72m, the Cap Gris-Nez lighthouse, as well as being an essential safety object for boats crossing the Pas-de-Calais Strait, is an incredible spot from which to enjoy the scenery of the Opal Coast!

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Wissant

Situated between Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez, Wissant is a very attractive seaside resort, with an eightfold increase in its population during the summer months. Visiting it out of season will give you the peace and quiet you need to enjoy the many amenities of the town and the Grand Site des Deux Caps even more. Don't hesitate any longer!

Episode 7: Wissant ➔ Calais

The cycling adventure - stage 7: Quentin's last pedal on the magnificent velomaritime trails, as he prepares to enter the land of a legendary animal... On today's programme: crazy landscapes, stairs, practical equipment, great encounters and a bit of chivalry!

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Brasserie Charlemagne

This small village brasserie offers you an authentic and sincere setting to enjoy dishes from a masterly French cuisine, accompanied by the friendliness of the people of Wissant.

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Hôtel Le Vivier

Situated almost on the edge of Lac le Fartz, a protected natural area renowned for the richness of its flora and fauna and dotted with several bird observatories, Hotel le Vivier enjoys a cocoon of serenity to offer you a well-deserved rest.

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Cape Blanc Nez

Seen from the sea, the 134-metre-high chalk cliffs dominate the Pas-de-Calais Strait. Seen from the saddle of a bicycle, Cap Blanc-Nez will only be revealed to you after you've made an effort you'll remember for the rest of your life! (If you're an electric-assist cyclist, you'll appreciate the nature of your steed)But such efforts are always rewarded. And here, at Cap Blanc-Nez, the magic of this incredible spot works no matter what the weather. Nature is breathtaking! Mandatory stopover.

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Blériot-Plage

This hamlet in the commune of Sangatte takes its name from the feat of aviator Louis Blériot who, on 25 July 1909, became the first man to cross the English Channel and fly back to England! It's also the perfect place to start your exploration of the Calais area. It's easily accessible and directly connected to the Calais seafront by the Gaston Berthe dyke. A great place for cyclists.

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Calais

Calais is the most densely populated town in the Pas-de-Calais and is directly connected to Great Britain via the Channel Tunnel. And this is no coincidence. The history of Calais is steeped in Franco-British relations, and wandering around the town gives you the opportunity to discover this rich shared past, so a word of advice: leave your bike in one of the "abricyclettes" set up by the town, and take the time to appreciate all that the town has to offer!

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Calais Côte d'Opale Intercommunal Tourist Office

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The seafront dyke

Recently renovated and landscaped for the enjoyment of all, and especially walkers, the sea wall offers you a most pleasant stroll along the seafront. Don't hesitate to go as far as the pier, where the view is exceptional! There are rumours of a legendary fire-eater... So be on your guard!

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Friterie des Nations

In 2023, the first World French Fry Championship was held in Arras! One thing's for sure: if Quentin had been on the jury, he would have voted for the chip shop of the nations! Guilty pleasure? The answer is pleasure itself.

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The Dragon Company

12 metres high... 25 metres long... Yes! You're not dreaming. You're really dealing with a Dragon! Rest assured, this one means you no harm. Accompanied by his dragon riders, he can take you on a tour of the Calais seafront that you'd never have hoped for.

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Calais lighthouse

Not far from the sea wall is the Calais lighthouse, listed as a Historic Monument in 2010. If you want to get to the top of the lighthouse, you'll have to climb no fewer than 271 steps. But these are nothing compared to the view you'll discover.

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Belfry of Calais

Standing 75 metres high against the town hall, the Calais belfry is one of the last to have been built, dating back to the early 20th century. Although it did not serve the same purpose as its cousins in parts of Hauts de France and Belgium, its architectural style makes it one of the town's landmarks.

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City of Lace and Fashion

Whether you're a fan of haute couture culture or simply curious about nature, the lace-making town of Calais is a must-see. But that's not all! As well as housing a museum, it is also an industrial training centre. Its "cité" name is not misleading! The enchanting lace of Calais is still alive and well, and it's not about to die out any time soon.

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Ancient History

Calais is also a town to savour! There's no doubt about it, and there's something for everyone... Entering the Histoire Ancienne is like stepping into a Toulouse Lautrec-style setting. An authentic place in pure art-deco style, the chef offers tasty, home-cooked, bistro-style cuisine. Quite a programme.

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The Circle of Mechelen

If you've visited the Cité de la Dentelle before arriving, this hidden gem is the perfect place to continue your visit! Here you enter a former lace-maker's house, run by a descendant of lace-makers.

Episode 8: Calais ➔ Saint-Omer

Quentin leaves VéloMaritime for EuroVélo 5 and the Pays de Saint-Omer. At the (almost) half-way stage of his cycling adventure, this was a stage marked by a host of encounters.

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Vic Bridge in Calais

From Calais, there are several places where you can catch up with Eurovéloroute 5. Coming from the vélomaritime, one of the easiest ways is the crossroads at the Vic bridge. Take the EV5, one of the many routes leading to Rome!

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Guines

Leaving Calais, the EV5 guides you through clear, efficient roadworks all the way to Guînes. It plunges you into tranquil, relaxing countryside. Let yourself be carried away by these lands still full of iodine. A short stop in the town of Guines is a must, not least to see the famous Tour de l'Horloge.

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Ardres

The last few pedal strokes on the EV5 in the Pays d'Opale will take you as far as Ardres. Situated around fifteen kilometres from Calais, it offers a pleasant "land and sea" experience that you'll be delighted to explore.

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Les Robinsons du Lac

Just a few dozen kilometres after starting out on the EV5, you have the chance to meet one of the designers of the route for this superb means of travel, and now head of Les Robinsons du Lac. This campsite, set around a lake, is also a bar and brasserie. A great idea not to be missed!

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Audruicq

The Eurovéloroute 5 has nothing to envy the vélomaritime in terms of scenery. As you cycle through Audruicq and its neighbouring towns, you'll pass through the Bredenarde region, which means "wide land" in Flemish. If you're a lover of rural landscapes, you're in for a treat.

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Eperlecques

Have you ever heard of the Audomarois marshes? From the 15 communes that make up this exceptional area, Eperlecques will be the first on your route. You'll first pass through its forest, much loved by walkers in the region, and home to the famous Blockhaus d'Eperlecques, built between 1943 and 1944 as a V2 missile launch base. A must-see for history buffs.

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Gîte du Cluse

The Gite du Cluse represents the very essence of the "accueil vélo" label. Whether you're just passing through for the day, looking for a place to stay or a place to sleep, in difficulty because of a technical fault or surprised by the weather, the Gîte du Cluse will always have something to offer you before you get back in the saddle to set off on the EV5. A good deal guaranteed!

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Cycling friends of the Saint-Omer area

There's an art to travelling by bike! But it always starts with learning how to control your bike and the rules of the road. Many associations exist, like the one chaired by the inimitable Alain: les amis cyclotouristes du Pays de Saint-Omer. Their experience and advice will be invaluable!

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Distillerie Persyn

Alcohol and sport don't mix, of course. But you'll still have room in your luggage for one of the tasty beverages concocted by the wizards in the Persyn family. Their expertise has won them the title of best gin in the world on several occasions! (Alcohol abuse is dangerous to your health, consume in moderation)_

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Tilques

There are plenty of opportunities to stop off in the Audomarois marshes, and all of them offer splendid views. But take the time to stop off at Tilques. With its eponymous giant carrots and magnificent châteaux, this village has plenty to surprise you!

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The Audomarois Marsh

This magnificent green setting, recognised as a biosphere reserve by the Man & Biosphere programme, is also the last market garden marsh in France! An exceptional place to discover in a thousand and one ways. Don't hesitate to leave your bike behind and take a short diversions in one of the marsh's famous flat-bottomed boats: a bacôve. La Maison du Marais, in Saint-Martin-lez-Tatinghem, is one of the best places to visit if you want to find out more about the Audomarois marshes.

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Saint-Omer

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Boat-Om

ave you always dreamed of sleeping on the water? This superb project to refurbish a Freycinet-gauge barge, which was a nightclub just a few years ago, will make your dream come true. Situated along the allée des marronniers, on the banks of the EV5, just a stone's throw from Saint-Omer station, it's the ideal location to set up your retreat for a night or a few more.

Episode 9: Saint-Omer ➔ Lumbres

Episode 9, a stopover shared with Julien Duqenne, Director of SPL Tourisme en Pays de Saint-Omer. A journey through the Pays de Saint-Omer towards an area of Grandeur Nature!

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Mercure Saint-Omer Centre Gare

Located in the heart of Saint-Omer, just a stone's throw from the station and the Audomarois marshlands, the Hôtel Mercure and its restaurant, Le Strom, offer a luxurious cycling welcome you'll remember for a long time. With a strong commitment to sport and well-being, the team will be delighted to offer you the rest you need.

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La Station

How many stations do you know where, as well as being able to take the train or bus or hire a bike, you can telework, attend conferences and courses of all kinds, prototype your wildest projects in a fablab, etc, etc, etc? Well, now you know what the station is, and if you don't have time to go in for a coffee or to fill up your water bottles, you can still admire this magnificent building, inaugurated on 12 June 1904.

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Arques

Arques is just a short pedal ride from Saint-Omer station. Thanks to the Eurovélo 5, you can discover this town, with its rich industrial heritage, from a natural perspective. Along the towpath, you'll come across an eco-neighbourhood, a large winnowing plant, and then you'll soon come across some of the jewels in the crown of industry in Arques: Arc International and the Goudale brewery. Enjoy the ride!

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Fontinettes boat lift, Arques

The importance of a town, past or present, can often be seen in the urban landscape, thanks to the buildings that make it up. In Arques, you'll find a structure that's unique in France, dating back to the end of the 19th century and bearing witness to the economic dynamism of Arques and the Saint-Omer region: the Fontinettes Boat Lift.

Episode 10: Lumbres ➔ Alquines

Discover the Pays de Lumbres by bike and reach the highest point in the Pas-de-Calais: Alquines. A memorable cycling experience in the heart of a life-size region.

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Najeti Hotel du Golf

At the foot of a superb golf course and in an exceptional setting, discover the Hôtel du Golf. The common areas of the hotel offer a privileged view of the hills and valleys of the Pays de Lumbres.

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Le Belvedère de Seninghem

A favourite spot. The panoramic view from the belvedere at Seninghem allows you to appreciate the relief of the Pays de Lumbres.

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The Mont Vert farm

A family affair spanning several generations since 1965, the Mont Vert farm is a great place to visit on the Adventure by Bike. You can visit the farm with its owner, Jean-François Croquelois, via the Lumbres Tourist Office.

Episode 11: Escoeuilles ➔ Éperlecques

Discover the Pays de Lumbres by bike. A memorable cycling experience in the heart of a natural environment.

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Le Manoir de Brugnobois

A genuine Auberge Restaurant, the Manoir de Brugnobois is a lovely break in the heart of lush green countryside. The Manoir has a restaurant and 5 guest rooms.

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L'Estaminet - Escoeuilles Bakery

A friendly estaminet where you can enjoy delicious food, it's a real place of life for the locals. A warm experience in Escoeuilles.

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The Saint-Louis de Guémy Chapel

The chapel plays an important role in local mythology, and is also a very pretty spot on the northern coast.

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Like a breath of fresh air

This ECO-responsible pied-à-terre between sea and forest is currently being converted into a Accueil Vélo. Ideally located just a short distance from the Eurovélo 5.

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The Blockhaus at Éperlecques

Situated in the heart of the Éperlecques forest, it is the largest bunker in northern France, an impressive stopping-off point for visitors.

Episode 12: Watten ➔ Cassel Watch

In this episode, we head north to the Monts de Flandre mountain range.

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Watten Mill

From the west, the Mont de Watten is the first in the chain of the Monts de Flandre. The Mont is overlooked by the Moulin de Watten, where you can take a break and enjoy the view of the Nord on one side and the Audomarois on the other.

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Source de l'Yser

The source of the Yser at Buysscheure. Small streams make big rivers!

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Cassel

Voted one of France's favourite villages, Cassel offers panoramic views over Flanders from the top of its mountain. It's a tough climb, but the destination is well worth the effort.

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Gîte du Tilleul

It's like being in the heart of a forest, yet only 200 metres from the centre of Cassel. A lovely cocoon with the "accueil vélo" label.

Episode 13: Cassel ➔ Bailleul Watch

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La Brasserie 3 Monts

Located between Mont des Récollets, Mont Cassel and Mont des Cats, the 3 Monts brewery can be visited via the Coeur de Flandre Tourist Office.

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The Mont des Cats

Famous for the cheese dairy at the Abbey of Mont des Cats, here you can contemplate Flanders as far as the eye can see.

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Les Houblonnières

This is the most unusual diversions on the route: in winter, the hop fields offer a very graphic and geometric view. The first hop shoots appear in March, followed by the first flowers in July and the harvest in September.

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Bailleul

Bailleul's preserved heritage and picturesque atmosphere make it an attractive place to visit. The historic landmark of Saint-Vaast church stands alongside cobbled streets and welcoming squares. An authentic destination, it combines history and regional charm.

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Camping de la ferme des Saules

Episode 14: Bailleul ➔ Mont-Bernanchon

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Brasserie du Pays Flamand

Located in Blaringhem, the Brasserie du Pays Flamand is well known for its Anosteké beer, now available in a wide range.

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La Belle du Pas-de-Calais (Aire-sur-la-Lys)

We recommend you leave your bike there for a little urban escapade to discover the city's rich historical heritage. A bike shelter (free of charge) in the car park on the rue des Alliés will give you a chance to explore the city centre in complete peace of mind.

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Electric Angel or Demon

As a partner of Aventure à Vélo, Ange ou Démon lets you discover the different worlds of cycling: from electric sports bikes to vintage bikes, originality is the key word! Bike hire and sales in Aire-sur-la-Lys and Coudekerque-Branche.

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Point 97

Canal d'Aire cycle route

A 36km greenway built on a towpath. It's the ideal route from Aire-sur-la-Lys to Béthune. Let yourself be guided, it's always straight ahead!

Episode 15: Mont-Bernanchon ➔ Béthune

98

Point 98

The Lys eco-lodges

The Écolodges de la Lys are two wooden cabins in the heart of a green setting. They welcome you, your family or your friends for a green holiday along the Aire canal.

99

Point 99

Geotopia

A real house of nature, with a rich programme of events for young and old alike. From sustainable gardening to astronomy, Geotopia has plenty to offer!

100

Point 100

BadAss

A trendy bar in a former car garage? Le Badass is a real place to be in the heart of the city, ideal for a drink or street food. The atmosphere is guaranteed, especially on match nights.

101

Point 101

The Belfry of Béthune

133 steps to warm up your calves, but above all to take in the sights of the city and surrounding countryside.

102

Point 102

TourHotel Béthune

Just 500 metres from the centre of Béthune, the TourHotel is a friendly, family-run hotel. It's not unusual to come across Léa, the manager, riding her cargo bike through the streets of Béthune. Cycling tourists, here everything is set up to welcome you!

Episode 16: Béthune ➔ Bruay-la-Buissière

103

Point 103

TourHotel Béthune

A family-run hotel with the "Accueil Vélo" label, ideally located just a short hop from Béthune town centre. Everything here is designed to welcome cycle tourists.

104

Point 104

Le Terril Viticole

Charbonnay d'Haillicourt, a white wine unique in the world! The vines at Haillicourt are the only ones in the world to grow on a slag heap, a daring wine that pays tribute to three centuries of mining.

105

Point 105

Les Terrils du Pays à Part

With its 3 hiking trails, the terrils du pays à part are the ideal place to stretch your legs. A walk around the slag heaps or a climb up 389 steps to take in the view - it's well worth the diversions!

106

Point 106

The City of Electricians

The oldest preserved mining town in Northern France. A great place to discover the mining heritage, the electricians' town is full of curiosities. The 3-hectare site has been renovated and turned into a visitor centre, gîtes and educational gardens. An interactive and immersive experience into the life of the miners.

Episode 17: Bruay-la-Buissière ➔ Lens

107

Point 107

The City of Electricians

The oldest preserved mining town in Northern France. A great place to discover the mining heritage, the electricians' town is full of curiosities. The 3-hectare site has been renovated and turned into a visitor centre, gîtes and educational gardens. An interactive and immersive experience into the life of the miners.

108

Point 108

Olhain Park

A leisure centre in the heart of a forest, the Olhain park is a life-size romp! Climbing a belvedere, a zip line, a toboggan run, a camping area, an open-air swimming pool, net courses... there's no shortage of activities!

109

Point 109

Olhain Castle

A legacy of the Middle Ages, the medieval castle of Olhain is a fine example of a "fortified castle on the plains of northern Europe". A curious discovery not to be missed! A guided tour is available with the Béthune-Bruay Tourist Office team.

110

Point 110

Notre-Dame-de-Lorette Necropolis

The Notre-Dame de Lorette Necropolis and its Ring of Remembrance, a major place of remembrance of the Great War.

Episode 18: Lens ➔ Aix-Noulette

111

Point 111

The Louvre-Lens Museum

An extension of the prestigious Louvre-Lens, the museum offers a unique experience where history and art meet in a modern and elegant setting. It is a journey through time and civilisation.

112

Point 112

Hotel du Louvre Lens

Nestling on the edge of the Louvre-Lens museum, the hotel is a chic and friendly hospitality experience. It is a haven of comfort with architecture and furnishings that respect the local history.

113

Point 113

The Bollaert-Delelis stadium

The Bollaert-Delelis stadium is a monument steeped in history, memories and emotion! Racing Club de Lens is the pride of a whole region, and there's only one thing to do: go there on match night. It's sure to be a memorable experience!

114

Point 114

Base 11/19

Base 11/19 is a testament to the region's mining history. Formed by decades of mining activity, the spoil heaps today offer a spectacular panorama of the town and its surroundings. The nature and biodiversity on the site today are a symbol of resilience, regeneration and the preservation of history and nature, and the site also offers a number of walking routes.

115

Point 115

La Brasserie Saint-Germain

Creation and innovation are the Brasserie's watchwords, and it is one of the only breweries to be awarded the "Accueil Vélo" label (an unusual anecdote for a brewery!).

Episode 19: Givenchy-en-Gohelle ➔ Lille

116

Point 116

L'heure Bleue - Gîtes and Chambres d'Hôtes

117

Point 117

The Vimy Memorial

118

Point 118

Lens Tourist Office

119

Point 119

The chain of parks

Conceived and decided upon as part of the Euralens dynamic, the Chaîne des parcs is the first major federating project of the Artois Metropolitan Cluster. With a potential area of over 2,200 hectares of parkland, the Chaîne des Parcs offers the public a huge area for walking, leisure and sport, close to home and within easy reach.