Northen France.

[derekpara]

I'm looking for somewhere to go for a few days in France.

Ideally, it should be within two hours drive of Calais and preferrably on the coast or near a scenic river, have good restaurants and a degree of character, not too touristy - but I could cope with that.

If you know what fits the bill can you recommend a reasonable hotel, too ?

Thanks.


D

[Buenchico]

It will take your around 1½ hours to drive to Amiens:
http://www.visit-amiens.com/

Hotel reviews here:
http://www.tripadviso...s_Picardy-Hotels.html

Chris

[boxtops]

Not France, but Bruges in Belgium is in driving distance, and is a lovely city.

[Buenchico]

PS: Just because you're starting from Calais doesn't mean that you're restricted to France. Belgium has got some great seaside resorts. Ostend (which I love) is probably a bit too 'touristy' for you, but De Panne is quieter and more 'up market'. It'sd also only about three quarters of an hour away from Calais:
http://www.depanne.be...toerisme/english.aspx

[Buenchico]

I see that Boxtops has been thinking along the same lines as me. I didn't suggest Bruges though, because it can get packed with tourists. However Ostend, Bruges, De Pann, De Haan and Blankenberge are all in a tight little group. (Ostend is only about 15 minutes away from Bruges by train. The coastal resorts are linked by a good tram service). So you could base yourself in one town but easily explore the others (and, by using public transport, be able to sample some Belgian beers as well!).

[boxtops]

Agree Chris, I stayed at De Panne many years back, it has a beautiful beach. The North French coast is also pretty. This sounds decadent but when we have visitors, we take the ferry to Calais and either eat there if we are on foot - some stunning fish restaurants - or drive down to Le Touquet. Day trips don't permit going further but the towns are really nice.

[derekpara]

Thankyou all for your suggestions. I've been to Bruges several times already and quite enjoyed it. I had heard that the Le Touquet area had a lot to offer so I'm glad you mentioned it, Boxtops.

Now, Amiens souds very interesting and looks quite attractive. I'm interested in history, including WW1, so there should be plenty to keep me occupied. Might well give that a shot ( Excuse the pun)

Blimey, Chris, you get around this site don't you ?

Cheers.
D