The Val d'Authie

The Val d'Authie is a pretty valley a few miles inland from the coast just south of Le Touquet.

A short distance off the A16 autoroute from the Channel Ports, the valley is only 40 minutes drive from the Tunnel, making it an ideal weekend base for cross-channel visitors.

It is a pleaseant area for walking and cycling, or just for relaxing and being part of 'La France Profond'. Dominated by the historic Abbe de Valloires and surrounded by woods and traditional villages it can feel as though time has stood still.

And yet just a few minutes drive away is the bustle and glamour of Le Touquet and the long beaches of the Emerald Coast.

For more information about Saulchoy itself:   www.saulchoy.free.fr/

Abbe de Valloires

The Abbey was founded in the 12th Century by Cistercian monks.

The building are now mostly in use as a school, but the grounds are open to the public, as are the large gardens, spread over 18 acres with over 5000 species of plants and a huge collection of old roses.

The gardens are open year round and have a restaurant and shop selling local products and books. Summer opening hours are 10 to 6.

Moulin de Maintenay

The Moulin (mill) is still a working bakery, using the water wheel to mill the flour. Try some of the local counntry-style bread or the speciallity 'Tartine au Meunier' (baker's choice tart).

At the 'Fete au Fil de l'Eau' each August visitors get a chance to discover the River Authie by canoe and listen to music on the riverbank.

The surrounding area

Le Touquet

Good for shopping, beaches, restaurants, golf horse riding .....

For comprehensive information click on this link to the town's own web site:

Montreuil

Montreuil is an interesting town with a long history. Rising above the surrounding plain and standing guard over the estuary of the River Conche, the extensive ramparts enclose an interesting mix of architectural styles that extend back to the middle ages.

The Ramparts

Standing for more than 500 years, the ramparts are the dominant feature of the town. There are extensive walks around the area and many excellent views across the surrounding landscape and out towards the mouth of the Conche and the sea.

La Citadelle

At the heart of the fortifications is the Citadel, built up into its present form during the 17th century. The entrance was once the home of the King's Lieutenant. There are now just two towers remaining of the royal chateau built on this site by King Philippe August in the 13th century.

A brief visit to Victor Hugo inspired him to set Les Misérables in Montreuil and this is celebrated at the Citadel each year at the end of August with a Son et Lumière in his honour.

Roger Rodière Museum

This is located in the chapel of the Orphans Hospital (l'hôpital des orphelins), which dates from the 18th century. It holds and interesting collection of archaeological exhibits that trace the history of the town.

The Frank & Mary Wooster Bequest Museum

In one of the grandest buildings in the town, Mary Wooster bequeathed it to the commune on her death. Originally the Hôtel Acary, its architecture is considered unique. Inside is a collection of furniture from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

The Abbey of Sainte Saulve

11th century Benedictine abbey, sitting on the site of an even older monastery dedicated to Saint Walloy and founded by Breton monks in the 10th century. It has been ravaged by time, having been sacked in 1537, but the nave is still visible. The blend of Gothic and Romantic styles makes this one of the outstanding remains in Northern France.

La Place Darnétal

An area typical of the old Montreuil. Cobbled streets with tiny limestone houses, nearly always full of flowers, have inspired writers and artists.

Activities

Golf

The famous La Mer and Le Foret courses at Le Touquet and several more round about

> more information here

Walking and sightseeing

Probably the best area for walking in Northern France.
> Read this recent piece in the Independent    

Horse Riding

On the Le Touquet beaches, in the forest or in the International Parc de la Canche.