Summer Trips Within 3 Hours from Calais
If you’re itching for a day trip this summer and France fits the bill, somewhere within easy driving distance of Calais makes sense. Once you roll off the ferry you can head in any direction you fancy to find a destination with the right combination of character, charm and sophistication that France is famous for. Here is a list of some great places to visit by road, all within 3 hours from Calais.
Saint Valery-sur-Somme
A picturesque coastal town in Picardy, northern France, Saint Valery-sur-Somme is a gem of a destination. Drive along the coastal road for views of the fishing and sailing boats, take in the ancient architecture and stop for a fish supper at one of the excellent eateries in the town before you head home. At only 75 minutes from Calais you can make a full day of it at this popular, pretty and convenient French town.
Audresselles
The perfect get-there-quick destination for day-trippers to France, Audresselles
Is just half an hour away from Calais by car and offers all the local character you could want. A small fishing village that’s big on charm, you can take a walk along the sandy beach to stretch your legs once you get there.
Ardres
One of the most popular and easily reached destinations from Calais, Ardres is a mere 20 minute drive from Calais. Set in Pas de Calais in northern France, Ardres offers an unspoilt mediaeval market town centre. If you are lucky enough to drive there on a Thursday you can even see the market day in full swing and pick up some traditional local goodies. There are a host of tourist attractions in the town, and being a coastal area the seafood restaurants are excellent.
Bergues
Heading inland, driving east for just under an hour will get you to the picturesque and canal-crossed village of Bergues. It boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the form of its impressive belfry, while the rest of the village makes for some very pleasant sightseeing. It was even chosen as a film location, making it an even more popular draw for visitors. Known as ‘the Bruges of France’, you can enjoy some of the delights of that well-known Belgian destination without having to drive quite so far!
It’s always worth doing a little research before deciding which place you’d like to visit, but with so many areas of interest and all so near Calais, you really will be spoilt for choice. A day trip in the car is also an ideal way to stock up on cheap good wines, cheeses and other French products. Just be sure to remember to take out your European breakdown cover with Breakdown Direct before you set off on the road and you’ll be all set.