introduction

Nord-Pas de Calais is one of the 26 regions of France, located to the north of the capital city of Paris and situated on the English Channel at the point closest to the English coast. In the north, it has a border with Belgium.

surfing

The surf on the northern coastline of France lacks punch and consistency. It requires huge westerly swells generated from the Atlantic Ocean to penetrate this protected coastline or a locally generated wind swell. However, the white chalk cliffs do make for a stunning coastline and its locality to Paris make it a popular surf spot none the less. The Cotentin Peninsula faces west and picks up the most swell and winter being the most consistent time makes the surfers who frequent this area a committed and hardened bunch of wave riders.

where to stay

Accommodation is varied in France, as with most western countries, and offers a full range of choice to suit every budget and it goes something a little like this:-

Short term rentals

These are usually privately owned apartments or villas and can be rented from a week or so up to a couple of months. The term typically will run Saturday to Saturday and many are only available in the summer months. The main advantage to this option is it works out fairly cheap if there is a group of you and you can be totally self sufficient as they usually have a fully fitted kitchen and laundry. There are many letting agencies that you can book these through, just do an internet search on your preferred area, many websites are in both English and French.

Hotels

Hotels come in categories ranging from 1 to 4 stars in France, 4 being the most luxurious – and expensive. This option does fill up quickly in the summer months and in the larger cities such a Paris, so book well in advance.

B & B’s

The French term for a bed and breakfast is a “Chambres d’hôte” and you can find them throughout France, mainly in the rural areas and towns. The prices are based upon a nightly rate but check that breakfast is included.

Gîtes

Gîtes or gîtes ruraux are holiday cottages, again usually found in the more rural areas, and are rented on a weekly basis. These come fully equipped with at least a couple of bedrooms, living area, kitchen and laundry so are geared up for a self sufficient, self catering type holiday.

Camping

Camping is by far one of the most popular ways to stay in France and the summer climate is ideal. Most campsites are in a pristine pine forest settings and are well maintained and often include facilities such as an onsite bakery or “boulangerie” and swimming pools, volleyball etc. Camping is a great way to meet fellow travellers in France and adds perfectly to the atmosphere of a European surfari as well as being very cheap. Many of the main surf breaks on the west coast of France are backed by campsites.

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