A glimpse of Boulogne-sur-Mer

On our recent trip to the Côte d’Opale, we visited Cap Blanc Nez and Cap Gris Nez before stopping at Boulogne-sur-Mer. With accommodation just ten minutes walk away, the old town provided the perfect spot for a wander in the autumn sunshine.

Just a few minutes up from the town is Boulogne’s Vieille Ville (old town). One of the historic sites you see first as you walk past all the restaurants and cafes, is the Belfry. Built in the 12th century, it’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once a dungeon. It’s the oldest building in the upper part of the city and is currently home to a museum. Although we didn’t climb the Belfry on this occasion, the views are said to be wonderful spanning the port, the town and the sea.

At the main square there is the town hall and a garden which often showcases temporary exhibitions. This one was garden based with an array of interesting displays including treasure chests, spilt paint and a pig among other things. POD enjoyed one of the many mirrors especially pretending she was Alice in Wonderland – much to the amusement of passers-by!

The Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer is the castle which houses the Boulogne museum, its moats filled with water and waterlillies. It was built in the 13th century and was the castle of Burgundy counts. The museum contains collections by some of Boulogne’s famous names including Pinart, Hamy, Mariette and Lebeau and is divided into four sections.

The cobbled Rue de Lille is the main street you take up to the Basilica, known locally as the cathedral. It’s a prominent landmark in Boulogne and includes a dome over 100 metres high which can be seen from most of the city. The cathedral crypt, Crypt of Notre Dame, is said to be the second largest in France with fourteen chambers including religious artefacts, gold and silver. We loved the dome and it was just as incredibly at night, lit up against a dark blue dusky sky.

While in Boulogne, we also visited the renowned NAUSICAA Aquarium. Created in 1991, this ‘seaworld’ experience provides a unique insight into the seas and the threats facing them. With a tropical lagoon, shark aquarium and sea lion reserve, it provides a true sense of marine exploration. You can read more about it over the coming days.