Hauts-de-France: A naturally generous region

Getting around Hauts-de-France

Although the region's rail network is very well developed, making it easy to travel from town to town, it is still more comfortable to visit Hauts-de-France by car. Indeed, it is still difficult to access the natural areas and regional parks by public transport.

Weather

It's important to remember that the region's coastline and inland areas don't have quite the same climate. Swept by North Atlantic currents, the Hauts-de-France coast has slightly higher temperatures than inland areas, but it is also much windier and the weather is more changeable. But don't be fooled by preconceived ideas. The Hauts-de-France is not as grey a region as people would have us believe. While it's advisable to take an umbrella with you on a trip to the north, that doesn't mean you should shun northern France like the plague. The climate is not always mild (and yes, it's not the south either), but that doesn't mean it rains non-stop. However, spring and summer are the best times to visit Hauts-de-France.

Safety

Everyone has heard of the kindness and generosity of people in the north, so you shouldn't feel unsafe in the Hauts-de-France. Even so, every major city has its slightly darker areas, so you might want to avoid hanging out in the evenings in the outlying districts of Lille, Calais, Amiens or Dunkirk. As everywhere else, you need to keep an eye out and be careful with your belongings.

Sports

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them active and fit during their stay in the Hauts-de-France. While the Côte d'Opale offers a multitude of water sports, cycling, football and rugby are also widespread. Horse-riding and golf are also popular sports in the region, with a number of golf courses awaiting your tee-off. Anglers will be delighted, with numerous lakes offering a varied fishing reservoir. Of course, you can simply explore the landscape on foot and organise a hike along the lakes or through the lush forests. And if you want to try something new, why not try sand surfing?

What to eat?

From herring and chicory to Maroilles, waffles and northern garlic, the Hauts-de-France region has no shortage of local produce and specialities to awaken your senses. Speculos and champagne are the two stars of the region, taking pride of place on the table alongside haricot de Soissons, artisanal mustard with cider and vinegar, Dauphin (a cheese made from Maroilles, tarragon and chives) and gâteau de Compiègne or picantins. Bordering the English Channel, the Somme brings to regional gastronomy its maritime harvest, which includes samphire, cockles, prawns and eels.