Fall in love with Picardy

Chateau de Chantilly

France is without a doubt a beautiful country and one worth exploring as there is so much more to it than the city of lights that is Paris or the luxurious and star studded Cannes in the south. We are hoping to do a big road trip through the French countryside in a camper van in the next few years as it's so close to the UK, in fact you can be exploring Picardy in the north within 4 hours of leaving UK shores via the ferry or for those who don't fancy driving you can always fly.

So where is Picardy exactly and why should you visit it? Firstly it's a region of Northern France and with stunning coastlines, heritage sites, traditional French cuisine and should not be overlooked as a destination. Here is why you should be booking a break to Picardie as the french would say.

A relaxing break

The Picardy region has more than 70 outdoor parks and gardens open to the public which offer a variety of walks in diverse countryside where you can get a chance to spot some wildlife or simply find a moment of calm, cycling is also popular in tis region with acres of trails along the coastline or countryside. Picardy offers a lot for both families and those who wish to get away from it all.

Action sports

If you are more of an adrenaline junkie than never fear there is a lot on offer for the more outgoing traveller. You will have the chance to try out something new as there is much available for both amateurs or professionals from speedsail and sailing to kayaking and waterskiing or a spot of horse-riding through countryside or coastline.

History

The region of Picardy had a huge part to play in history and the First World War and the famous battle of Somme and for those who are interested in this part of History there is an abundance of sights, museums or combine nature and remembrance with a self-drive day trip to the battlefields now filled with poppies. No one can fail to be moved by a visit to one of the many memorials, cemeteries or museums.

Food 

Why not take in some of that laid back French lifestyle with a trip that celebrates the wonderful local cuisine, with so many amazing restaurants, eateries and world famous champagne houses as well as more simple affairs such as moules frites by the seaside Picardy is a real hotspot for gourmet and culinary discoveries. Its also fantastic for those who have a sweet spot and wish to sample some authentic creme Chantilly in Restaurant du Hameau in the grounds of the Chateau de Chantilly.


With so many different types of accommodation from 5 star spa and wine retreats to more relaxed family friendly campsites Picardy has something for everyone and like I said it's only a 4hour drive from London so why check out a selection of accommodation and trips Espri De Picardie has to offer


In collaboration with Buzzparadise