Pas-de-Calais

Montreuil-sur-Mer

Montreuil-sur-Mer - This charming town is surrounded by medieval walls and boasts narrow, winding streets lined with historic buildings. Visitors can explore the town's ramparts, visit the medieval castle, and sample local delicacies at the town's many restaurants and cafes.

Nausicaa

This is one of Europe's largest aquariums and is home to over 58,000 sea creatures from around the world. Visitors can see everything from sharks and stingrays to sea lions and penguins, and learn about marine conservation and research.

Vimy Ridge

This site is a memorial to the Canadian soldiers who fought in the Battle of Vimy Ridge during World War I. Visitors can explore the preserved trenches and tunnels, visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, and learn about the history of the battle and its impact on the war.

WELCOME TO Pas-de-Calais

Entry Into Department

largest city

Calais

AREA

6,671 km²

POPULATION

1,462,120

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Cap Blanc-Nez

Cap Blanc-Nez is a majestic white cliff situated on the Opal Coast of Pas-de-Calais, France. It rises to a height of 134 meters above the English Channel and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the sea. The site is a popular tourist destination for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the World War II bunkers and tunnels.

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a charming seaside resort town on the Opal Coast of Pas-de-Calais, France. It is known for its luxurious villas, fine dining, and high-end shopping experiences. The town offers a vibrant nightlife and a range of outdoor activities, including golfing, horse riding, and water sports. Its sandy beaches are popular among visitors.

Arras

Arras is a picturesque town in Pas-de-Calais, France, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful squares, and rich cultural heritage. The town's Grand'Place and Place des Héros are among the most beautiful squares in France. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed belfry, the Vauban citadel, and the Gothic-style Arras Cathedral are popular attractions.

Political

Economy and Government

Pas-de-Calais is a department in the northern region of France, with a population of approximately 1.4 million people. The economy of the region is mainly driven by the service sector, which employs a majority of the local workforce. The region also has a strong agricultural sector, producing crops such as wheat, sugar beet, and potatoes.

Pas-de-Calais is home to several important industries, including mining, textiles, and food processing. The region has a rich mining history, with coal mining being a significant industry in the past. Today, the mining industry has largely been replaced by other industries, such as renewable energy and logistics.

The government of Pas-de-Calais is headed by the Prefect, who represents the central government in the region. The department is further divided into four arrondissements, each headed by a sub-prefect. The regional council of Pas-de-Calais is responsible for the economic, social, and cultural development of the region. The council is made up of 78 members, who are elected every six years. The president of the council is responsible for managing the council's activities and implementing its policies.

Overall, Pas-de-Calais is a dynamic region with a diverse economy and a well-structured government that is committed to promoting the region's growth and development.

History

History and Culture

Pas-de-Calais is a region in northern France with a rich history and vibrant cultural heritage. The region was inhabited by various tribes and communities during the prehistoric era, and was later settled by the Romans who built several towns and roads in the area.

During the Middle Ages, the region was ruled by various feudal lords, and became an important center for trade and commerce. The region's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture, with numerous Gothic-style churches and buildings dating back to the medieval period.

Pas-de-Calais played an important role in the two World Wars, and is home to several important military sites and memorials, including the Vimy Ridge Memorial and the Somme battlefields.

The region is also known for its cultural festivals, such as the Arras Film Festival and the Boulogne-sur-Mer Sea Festival. The region's cuisine is characterized by hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, such as seafood, cheese, and beer.

Pas-de-Calais is also home to several world-renowned museums and art galleries, such as the Louvre-Lens Museum and the Centre National de la Mer Nausicaa.

Overall, Pas-de-Calais is a region with a rich history, vibrant culture, and strong identity, making it a fascinating and unique destination for visitors.

HOTELS

Chateau de Montreuil

Located in the heart of Montreuil-sur-Mer, this charming 4-star hotel is set within a historic 18th-century castle. It features elegant rooms and suites with antique furnishings, a gourmet restaurant, and a beautiful garden.

Najeti Hôtel Château Cléry

This elegant 4-star hotel is housed in a 19th-century chateau surrounded by a large park in Hesdin-l'Abbé. The hotel features a fine-dining restaurant, a bar, an indoor pool, and a spa with sauna and steam room.

Hotel Le Bristol

This 3-star hotel is located in the picturesque coastal town of Berck-sur-Mer, just a short walk from the beach. The hotel features cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast, and a restaurant serving traditional French cuisine.

RESTAURANTS

La Grenouillère

This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a charming village near Montreuil-sur-Mer. It offers a unique dining experience with an innovative, contemporary menu that features locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a restored 16th-century farmhouse and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Le Channel

This popular seafood restaurant is located in the heart of Calais, overlooking the harbor. It serves a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, mussels, and lobster. The restaurant has a lively, casual atmosphere and friendly service.

Les Jardins de la Matelote

This elegant restaurant is located in the historic fishing village of Boulogne-sur-Mer, overlooking the marina. It offers a sophisticated, seasonal menu that showcases the best of local produce and seafood. The restaurant has a refined, intimate atmosphere and a well-curated wine list.