Baie de Somme
A vast estuary where land meets sea, offering serene beaches, abundant wildlife, and charming towns connected by a historic steam railway.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Baie de Somme
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast estuary where land meets sea, offering serene beaches, abundant wildlife, and charming towns connected by a historic steam railway.
"Beautiful area of France, well worth exploring! Book ahead as accommodation gets very busy during school holidays."
Book accommodation early! 🛌
Places get busy, especially during school holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot.
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Coastal weather can change quickly. Layers are your best friend for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seal Watching at Le Hourdel
Le Hourdel Peninsula
Witness playful seals in their natural habitat during low tide. A truly wild and unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Baie de Somme Railway
Coastal towns
Ride a historic steam train connecting charming seaside villages. A nostalgic journey through stunning landscapes.

Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme
Coastal town
Explore this picturesque medieval town with its ramparts, harbor, and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tides and Trails
Getting Around: Steam Trains & Bikes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book accommodation early! 🛌
Places get busy, especially during school holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot.
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Coastal weather can change quickly. Layers are your best friend for exploring.
Embrace the steam train 🚂
It's a quintessential Baie de Somme experience connecting charming towns.
Tide times are crucial 🌊
Check tide schedules for seal watching and beach access.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book accommodation early! 🛌
Places get busy, especially during school holidays. Book ahead to secure your spot.
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Coastal weather can change quickly. Layers are your best friend for exploring.
Embrace the steam train 🚂
It's a quintessential Baie de Somme experience connecting charming towns.
Tide times are crucial 🌊
Check tide schedules for seal watching and beach access.
Cycle for scenic views 🚴♀️
Explore the natural beauty and quiet beaches at your own pace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Baie de Somme's stunning natural beauty, particularly its wildlife and charming coastal towns. The historic steam railway and fresh seafood are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally positive, some mention that accommodation can be pricey and book up quickly during peak seasons.
"One of the best places we visited during our weekend trip up Saint Valery sur Somme.
It was a very bright, warm 22C sunny spring Saturday.
The place was vibrant with many people leisurely strolling with families and pets. There are many shops selling food, fashion boutique shops etc around.
The seafood shops and restaurants are really nice"
Rakesh Chatterjee
"Very nice and natural place."
Orry B
"Very good food, sea food dish, oysters."
Emiel Mogensen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive from Paris to Baie de Somme, which takes about 2-3 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, take a train from Paris Gare du Nord to Abbeville or Noyelles-sur-Mer, then connect to local transport or taxis.
Yes, the Baie de Somme railway is a fantastic way to travel between towns like Le Crotoy and Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme. Cycling is also very popular and a great way to see the area.
The most popular towns include Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme, Le Crotoy, and Cayeux-sur-Mer. Each offers unique charm and access to the bay's natural beauty.
While possible, it's a long day trip. Many visitors recommend staying at least one night to fully appreciate the area and its relaxed pace.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the history and nature of the bay. Check with the local tourist office for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Baie de Somme itself is free. However, specific attractions like the steam railway, boat tours, and some museums require tickets.
Ticket prices for the Baie de Somme railway vary depending on the route and season. It's best to check their official website for current pricing and schedules.
No, the beaches in Baie de Somme are generally free to access. Enjoy the natural coastline without any entry fees.
It's highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during school holidays or peak summer season.
While specific passes aren't widely advertised, look out for package deals that might combine train rides with other activities. Checking with local tourist offices can provide insights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Top activities include seal watching, riding the steam railway, exploring charming towns like Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme, cycling, and enjoying fresh seafood.
The best spot for seal watching is at Le Hourdel peninsula, especially during low tide. It's a protected area where seals come to rest.
Hiking and cycling are excellent ways to immerse yourself in the natural landscapes. Guided nature walks can also offer deeper insights.
Absolutely! Children will love the steam train, spotting seals, and playing on the beaches. Many activities are family-friendly.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of exploring. Layers of clothing are advisable due to the changeable coastal weather.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Seafood is a specialty here, with oysters, mussels, and fresh fish being highly recommended. Local produce and traditional French cuisine are also widely available.
Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme and Le Crotoy have numerous restaurants offering excellent seafood dishes. Look for establishments with fresh catches of the day.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer traditional French dishes that can be adapted or have vegetarian options. It's always best to inquire with the restaurant.
Besides seafood, try local lamb dishes (agneau de pré-salé) if available, and regional cheeses. Don't forget to sample local pastries and bread.
During market days in the towns, you can often find local produce, cheeses, and other artisanal products.
📸 📸 Photography
The picturesque harbor of Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme, the vast expanses of the bay at sunrise/sunset, the steam train, and the seal colonies at Le Hourdel offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant town life.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and town shots. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife like seals. A wide-angle can capture the vastness of the bay.
Drone regulations can be strict in natural reserves and populated areas. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Photograph the train from different angles, capturing its steam against the landscape. Shots from the platforms in the charming stations also work well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing beach toys and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus. The overall relaxed pace of the region makes it easy to manage with younger travelers.
🚶♀️ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Remember to bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and appropriate footwear for varied terrain. Respecting the natural environment by staying on marked paths is crucial.
💑 Couples Retreat
Explore the quaint streets of the medieval towns hand-in-hand, and find quiet spots to simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The natural landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop for creating lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Wonders: Seals and Birds
Beyond seals and birds, the diverse ecosystems of the bay support a rich variety of flora and fauna. The salt marshes and mudflats are unique environments that contribute to the area's ecological significance. Exploring these natural areas responsibly is key to preserving their beauty for future generations. Remember to stick to marked paths and follow any guidelines provided by local nature reserves.
Exploring the Charm of Coastal Towns
These towns are beautifully connected by the Baie de Somme railway, a heritage steam train that offers a nostalgic and scenic way to travel between them. Riding the train is often cited as a highlight, providing fantastic views of the landscape and a unique travel experience. Many visitors also enjoy exploring the towns on foot or by bicycle, discovering local shops, cafes, and the unique architecture.
The Iconic Baie de Somme Railway
Operating primarily during the spring and summer months, the railway is a popular choice for families and history enthusiasts alike. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as the trains can fill up quickly. The distinctive sound and sight of the steam engine puffing through the landscape add a magical touch to any visit to the Baie de Somme.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit