Top Cities on the Opal Coast

The architecture of the seaside resorts

Did you know that Wimereux is the oldest seaside resort on the Côte d'Opale? The architecture here is created in a very particular Anglo-Norman style and most of the villas were built according to the wishes of their owners. Then in Hardelot, you can spot famous villas in the forest or in the heart of the town, embodying the elegance of the resort.

Explore towns & villages of the Opal Coast

Named after the iridescent grey light from the sea and sky, tourists have been travelling to the Opal Coast since the Victorian era. Its seaside towns have kept much of their vintage charm and they still attract plenty of beach-goers today.

This breath taking coastline has surprises around every corner from its fabulous expanse of sandy beaches to bustling towns full of that certain je ne sais quoi. It’s great for sport too with year-round sailing and windsurfing and packed full of history from Roman times and wartime occupation right up to the modern days.

Wimereux

In the heart of the Regional Nature Park of Caps et Marais d’Opale lies Wimereux, a charming Belle Epoque resort, particularly appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Its popularity stems from the nineteenth century, and the city has kept stunning villas that give such charm to the waterfront. Probably one of the most beautiful promenades of the Opal Coast.

Wissant

Wissant is a fishing village, which is keen to perpetuate its traditions and preserve its maritime heritage. Lying halfway between Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, it is a charming seaside resort with a large sandy beach and an extensive promenade, the perfect destination for a summer holiday!

Ambleteuse

Originally a simple hamlet of wooden huts nestled between the dunes, Ambleteuse has been a strategic place through history from Julius Caesar to Napoleon. In 1680, Vauban built the Fort Mahon, the only remaining sea fort from Cherbourg to the Belgian border. At the end of the 19th century, Ambleteuse became a holiday resort, much appreciated by the bourgeoisie from Lille and Paris resulting in the construction of villas and hotels. Today, the city continues to attract visitors with its unique charm, unique architecture and proximity to some of the most beautiful natural sites in the region.

Hardelot

The seaside resort of Hardelot was founded in 1905 by John Whitley, a British entrepreneur who had previously contributed to the development of le Touquet. In Hardelot, the pine forest is home to magnificent villas, as well as two of the most beautiful golf courses in Hauts-de-France. You will be delighted by this forest landscape which suddenly opens out onto the sea et reveals a 13km long fine sandy beach.

Boulogne sur Mer

There is no other city quite like it. Anyone who takes the time to lose themselves in its maze of streets will be stunned by its amazing diversity. It can almost be said that there is not one, but ‘several’ Boulogne-sur-Mers… While the lower city is lively with its fishing port and shopping area, the old town, perched high on its rocky headland, plunges you two thousand years back in time.

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