CAMPING & HOLIDAY PARKS 2019


IMAGE © PHILIPPE HAMAIN-OISE TOURISME


Hauts-de-France


Too often bypassed by tourists, France's northern tip is well worth the detour – and a lengthy stay


HAUTS-DE-FRANCE was created when the Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy regions – which contained fi ve départements between them (Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais and Somme) – merged to form a bumper super-region. It offers plenty of charming city-break options, quaint


rural and coastal towns to visit, family attractions, beaches and historical sites for those who usually roll off the ferries and Eurotunnel to head elsewhere in France. Although perhaps best-known for its elegant lace industry and delicious sweet cream (both named Chantilly), Hauts-de-France has a few surprises tucked up its sleeve. For starters, it boasts an impressive concentration of


family-friendly museums. Chief among them is the Louvre's fantastic regional outpost, located in the city of Lens, Pas-de-Calais. Its capital, Lille, meanwhile, is just the ticket for a short


(but sweet) cross-Channel break. Home to the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, which houses works by artists


The Château de Chantilly boasts Europe’s largest stables


such as Rubens and Goya, plus a collection of ceramics, it is a cradle of art and culture. The area has no shortage of picturesque gems like the towns of Arras, Compiègne and Chantilly. Every last nook of this widespread region speaks of its history – from Amiens's impressive Gothic architecture and iconic cathedral to the numerous cemeteries and memorials paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifi ce during the two world wars. History aside, there is plenty to keep little ones busy thanks to a packed year-round calendar of carnivals and festivals. The locals are partial to giant puppet parades and OTT fl oats. Foodies will also love Hauts-de-France. The area counts some 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, serving the freshest seafood. Too fancy? Why not give one of the region's popular friteries (chip vendors) a try instead? ■


Further information


Northern France Tourism A comprehensive guide to all the landmarks, museums and


natural wonders awaiting visitors. ◗ www.northernfrance-tourism.com


Picardy Tourism Check out all the unmissable sites, plan your trip around this


vast region, and discover WWII secrets… ◗ picardietourisme.com


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