Press file 2014 news & events
Your press contact : Pas-de-Calais Tourism
Benoît Diéval [email protected] 0333 21 10 34 60
Web : http://wartimehistory.pas-de-calais.com
SUMMARY
Main events and news for 2014
A/ Cultural
Louvre-Lens: 900,000 visitors in 2013! p3
Art Deco Month p4
The centenary of the First World War p5
La Coupole: new 3D films and exhibition p10
The International Centre of Lace & Fashion Museum, Calais p11
B/ Sport and wellbeing p14
C/ Nature & Environment p15
D/ Chambres d’hôtes B&Bs, Gastronomy, Hotels p19
E/ Calendar of main events p23
By city
Gastronomic festivals p27
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 2 A/ Cultural
The Louvre-Lens The Louvre-Lens welcomed 900,000 visitors during its first year of opening.
« The Time Gallery » Until December 2017 Stretching for 120m and charting a journey from the dawn of the written word at around 3500 B.C right up to the middle of the 19th Century, all civilisations and techniques are represented in this gallery that covers the entire chronological and geographical range of the collections of the Musée du Louvre. The Time Gallery is divided up into 3 major periods: 70 works from Antiquity, 45 pieces from the Middle Ages and 90 works taken from modern times.
The Disasters of War - 1800-2014 28 th May – 6 th October 2014 Temporary exhibition gallery The exhibition presents a rich set of representations arising from disenchantment with war, considered above all as a dealer in misfortunes from the beginning of the 19th century to our own time. Placed until then at the centre of society’s values, it increasingly came to be considered by artists in all its facets, including its most dreadful consequences on human beings, on animals, on the countryside, and on cities and things. Every war generated depictions related to new conceptions and techniques. This multidisciplinary exhibition shows the major milestones of this little known history, through all kinds of media: painting, sculpture, graphic arts, photography, film, video, installations, comic strips, popular prints, newspaper cartoons, and more.
« Seeing the Sacred » 4th December 2013 – 21 st April 2014 - Glass Pavilion The “Seeing the Sacred” exhibition focuses on a small number of works in order to provide those visiting the Time Gallery with a commentary on one of the main themes that run through this gallery: all that which is sacred.
« The Bestiary of Pharaonic Egypt » (provisional title) 3rd December 2014 – 9 th March 2015 - Temporary exhibition gallery Animals were ever present in the daily life of the ancient Egyptians and many of them had a symbolic meaning. In this way, the artistic representations of animals quickly became elements of a codified language and pillars of Egyptian thinking. This exhibition charts the progression from a simplistic perception of these creatures as real animals evolving within their own natural environment, right through to their transformation into the characters of a codified language within Egyptian thinking, whether of religious, funereal or political importance.
Practical information: Entry to the Time Gallery and Glass Pavilion is free – Temporary exhibitions: €9 Behind the scenes visit: free (limited to 17 people). Access: Access (park and museum) for physically and mentally disabled visitors, and for the hard of hearing. Contact: Tel: 00333 21 18 62 62 - [email protected] - www.louvre-lens.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 3 Art Deco Month Arras, Bethune , Douai, Lens 15 th March – 15 th April 2014
Art Deco, a term coined at the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts in Paris in 1925, is an artistic movement that essentially flourished from the 1920’s right up to the end of the 1930’s.
The tourist offices of Arras, Bethune-Bruay, Douai, Lens-Lievin, as well as the Pays d’Art et rd d’Histoire of Lens-Lievin are organising the 3 edition of Art Deco Month .
This region was particularly badly hit by the devastation of the Great War and today bears witness to the way in which the Art Deco style was employed in the reconstruction of the towns and villages destroyed during the conflict.
Guided tours, conferences and film screenings will allow visitors to discover and enjoy the diversity of an exceptional heritage that is widely present across this region.
www.mois-art-deco.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 4 Remembrance Tourism: Centenary of the First World War
The geographical location of the Pas-de-Calais, in between Belgium and The Somme, and just a short distance from England, explains the strategic importance of the battles of Artois, Loos and Lys, as well as the logistical organisation of the rear-guard actions in Saint-Omer, and later on in Montreuil-sur-Mer and right across the Côte d’Opale.
Major events are planned from 2014 to 2018 right across the Departement and the whole of Europe.
A variety of detailed press packs are available which cover the entire area. Below you will find a selection.
Inaugurations in 2014:
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette International Memorial Inauguration on 11 th November 2014 With the remains of more than 40,000 soldiers laid to rest here and covering an area of 25 hectares, the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette military cemetery is the largest in France.
To mark the occasion of the centenary of the Great War, the International Memorial will be erected on the summit of the Notre-Dame-de- Lorette plateau, with an inscription that bears the names of some 60,000 soldiers of all nationalities that fell in Nord Pas-de-Calais (French Flanders and Artois) from 1914-18, former friends and enemies alike.
This is the first time that a memorial of this type crosses national boundaries in relation to this tragic event.
Designed by the Parisian architect Philippe Prost, this monument in the shape of an ellipse will be illuminated at night thanks to its solar panels. www.tourisme-lenslievin.fr
Souchez Interpretive Centre A gateway to the battlefields of the Great War in French Flanders and Artois Inauguration in May 2015, free entry
Built at the foot of the hill of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, this Interpretive Centre will present the history of the Great War on Nord-Pas de Calais soil, with the help of modern museographic techniques (audio-visuals, interactive models, objects placed within their context, etc.). The Interpretive Centre will also contain a space where the public can consult computers that give them access to the history of the 600,000 combatants that are listed on the nearby International Memorial. www.tourisme-lenslievin.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 5 Partnerships:
The Centenary Label The Mission du Centenaire de la Première Guerre Mondiale is a public interest group that was established in 2012 by the French Government with a view to elaborating and putting in place a programme to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. The Mission du Centenaire has carried out more than 1500 projects, of which over 1000 have been awarded the official Centenary Label. This label highlights the most innovative and formative projects in the various regions. A mark of quality, it allows the chosen projects to be listed in the official programme of commemorative events and to receive financial assistance from the Mission itself.
Contact : Mission du centenaire de la Première Guerre mondiale Press Contact : 01 80 05 29 02 [email protected] www.centenaire.org
Nord-Pas de Calais Remembrance Trails 14-18
Northern France is home to a cornucopia of heritage relating to the First World War, much of which is little known. These military cemeteries, war memorials, archaeological remains and urban monuments subsist as the silent and poignant reminders of that great conflict.
Four trails, featuring 90 historic sites, explore the major themes of the Great War:
• The front • The war of movement and the first German occupation • The Allies' logistics base on the Channel coast • The reconstruction in the devastated areas
Remembrance cycling and hiking trails can be downloaded from www.remembrancetrails-northernfrance.com
European Great War Programme: Between the Lines
This project, supported by the 2 Seas Interreg programme, aims to ensure that the areas of The Somme, Aisne, Nord and Pas-de-Calais, the provinces of West Flanders and Antwerp in Belgium and Brighton & Hove and Cambridgeshire in England are as well prepared as possible for the commemorations to mark the centenary of the First World War between 2014 and 2018.
The main focus is to improve the public’s access to the remembrance events and the heritage sites of the Great War, in particular for young people and the inhabitants of the areas covered by this project.
A cross-border calendar of events will be available at www.greatwar1418.eu
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 6 Main Centenary events and exhibitions: Arras The commemorations of 1914-18 in Arras will take place across 5 seasons that reflect, as accurately as possible, the real history of the city. SEASON 1: November 2013 - August 2014 Arras and the Belle Epoque
SEASON 2: September 2014 – August 2015 Arras, a martyred town
SEASON 3: September 2015 – August 2016 Civilians in the War
SEASON 4: September 2016 – August 2017 Arras and the crossing of cultures
SEASON 5: September 2017 – August 2018 A new start
Around the Centenary: 97 th Anniversary of the Battle of Arras Wednesday 9th April 2014 at 6h30 at Carriere Wellington www.arras1418.fr
Béthune Women in the Great War Exhibition 20 th September 2014 -15 th March 2015 This exhibition will showcase works that are drawn from regional and national museums (Historial de la Grande Guerre in Peronne, Musée Bossuet in Meaux …) The exhibition will also offer a multi-disciplinary artistic look at this theme: photographs of monuments to the fallen representing women by the Studio Boulmé and Carpentier, workshops of artistic creativity and audience participation performances by Cie Noutique, theatre by Cie Oiseaux de Passage. Regional Ethnology Museum. Walking itineraries labelled Remembrance Trails 14-18 / July2014 - Bethune, English Time, 2h walking route - 2014-18, A Global Conflict, a 35km and 3h30 easy level cycling route.
Exhibition-Route: 14-18 Front line 14 th June – 28 th September The contemporary art exhibition-route invites visitors to discover 10 communes situated along the historic front line of battle through a series of works by artists inspired by the Great War and commissioned specially for these villages.
Exhibition: “Siegfried Sassoon & co, 12 soldier poets along the Artois-Lys Front” 5th September – 11 th November 2014
The Garden of poet Siegfried Sassoon «Siegfried’s garden», Intense activity will take place during these 4 years in the La Peylouse gardens, as in the heart of this typical green space with its collection of rare and giant trees, a new generation of interpretive centre is being readied. Something never before seen, and which will recall memories of 2014-18. La Poudrière, Saint-Venant www.lapoudriere.fr
www.tourisme-bethune-bruay.fr Pas-de-Calais Tourism 7 Montreuil-sur-Mer and the Opal Coast
During the early years of the Great War, the Côte d’Opale progressively became a huge supply area for arms and reinforcements, where care was administered, where troops trained, where commands were stationed…
In April1916, the General Headquarters (GHQ) of the British Army left Saint-Omer, which was deemed to be too vulnerable and was gradually moved to the area around Montreuil
To find out more:
• Permanent exhibition “Le Montreuillois dans la Grande Guerre” (The Montreuil area during the Great War) in the city’s Citadel
• From 1 March until 6 October 2014: “A friendly invasion. Le monde à nos portes” (the world on our doorstep) Roger Rodière museum, citadelle of montreuil-sur-Mer www.musees-montreuilsurmer.fr
The projects: Visit “From the GHQ to the Front, Itinerary of a Tommie during the Great War”, from Boulogne to Arras.
In 2016, opening of the interpretation centre about the presence of the British Empire on the Côte d’Opale during the Great War, in Montreuil-sur-Mer (The GHQ during the Great War)
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 8 Diaries 14-18 free Mobile app
Available on Android and iphones, the mobile App Diaries 14-18 is a collection of 5 self-guided tours on the Western Front.
• The Battles of Artois at Mont-Saint-Eloi (Pas-de-Calais) • Mateship and Cobbers in Fromelles (Nord) • From all around the world...to Beaumont Hamel (Somme) • Between Sky and Earth on the Chemin des Dames (Aisne) • Lijssenthoek: daily reflections of the Great War (Flanders Fields)
Based on audioguides, the app uses all the functions of your smartphone : videos, geolocation, archive images...
Discover major sites like Notre Dame de Lorette French Necropolis, the ruins of the Abbaye at Mont Saint Eloi, la Maison Blanche German cemetery, the Canadian National History site at Vimy Ridge, the Wellingotn Quarry and the town of Arras.
The app is available in English, French, Dutch and German. Scan the QR code or click the image and download the app for free !
Free download from the Appstore and Google Play. url to Iphone and Android apps : http://bit.ly/diaries1418?r=qr
http://wartimehistory.pas-de-calais.com
Pas-de-Calais Tourism’s website dedicated to remembrance tourism (Azincourt, the Field of the Cloth of Gold, First and Second World War). A complete dossier details the people of numerous nationalities that came to the area during the First World War.
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 9 Virtual exhibition - The ways of the Great War
The First World War is widely remembered as a war of position and trench warfare. At the same time this conflict also involved a lot of movement. Soldiers travelled to and from the frontlines, and as a result civilians were also displaced. Soldiers from all over the British Empire arrived in Europe to fight, while Chinese workers left Asia for Europe. Finally, after the war, there was even more movement as families or veterans travelled to the former battlefields, cemeteries and memorials to mourn their lost ones. This virtual exhibition follows the cycle of exhibitions “Four ways to the Great War”. The In Flanders Fields Museum, the Musée départemental de Flandre, the Historial de la Grande Guerre, the Caverne du Dragon-Musée du Chemin des Dames and the Departments of Pas-de-Calais and Nord joined forces for this exhibition. www.thewaysofthegreatwar.co.uk
La Coupole, the centre for history and remembrance of Nord-Pas de Calais
New films on the bill at the 3D Planetarium « Dream to fly: Les Ailes d’un Rêve »
Temporary exhibition “Rail workers in the Resistance” Until 31 st August 2014. Organised by the Resistance Foundation with the support and participation of the SNCF, and in conjunction with the Association for the History of the Railways in France, this exhibition retraces the history of the participation of rail workers in the Resistance.
Press Contact: Camille Hannecart, Tel.: 00333 21 12 27 22 Mail: [email protected] - www.lacoupole-france.com
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 10 CALAIS
Exhibitions at the International Centre of Lace & Fashion Museum, Calais
Iris van Herpen / until 13th April 2013 Following the monographic exhibition at the Groninger Museum in the Netherlands, the International Centre of Lace & Fashion Museum in Calais hosts the works of Iris Van Herpen. Aged just 29, this young Dutch stylist has already impressed the industry and graced catwalks with her futuristic creations that could almost be classed as sculptures. By presenting around 30 pieces created between 2008 and 2012, Cite Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode Lace Museum invites visitors to delve into the avant-garde universe of this star of the fashion world.
Lace Effects 1 / until 18th May 2014 A fashionable and luxurious object, resolutely contemporary, lace flirts with new technologies and makes full use of all the advancements in textiles in order to refresh its identity: lace made with unusual fibres, lace with surprising active properties…
Lace Effects 2 / 24 th May – 7 th December 2014 The second part of the Lace Effects exhibition, this series of contemporary catwalk shows located in the space at the end of the permanent collection area invites visitors to discover other equally surprising, perplexing and astonishing works. The presentation asks questions about the influence of lace in contemporary art.
On aura tout vu / 11 th June – 31 st December 2014 After the success of the Plein les Yeux and Iris van Herpen exhibitions in 2013, the International Centre of Lace & Fashion Museum returns with the extravagance of fashion, welcoming the On aura tout vu couture house.
Cite Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode Lace Museum in Calais – 135 quai du Commerce 62100 Calais – 00333.21.00.42.30 – www.cite-dentelle.fr
Press Contact Maïté Parenty 00333 21 00 42 34 - [email protected] - www.cite-dentelle.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 11 Calais…
At the Fine Arts Museum Claude Cattelain /from 18 th January to 18 th May 2014 Claude Cattelain was invited by Cap Calaisis/Le Jardin des Arts and the Fine Arts Museum of Calais to take up a mediation and creation residency in 2013. The drawings and works produced are on display just after the Jean Roulland exhibition as a follow-up to this event.
Monument / from 8th March to 16 th November 2014 The MONUMENT exhibition is part of the programme of commemorative events for the start of the First World War, as well as the Normandy landings. Its aim is not to focus on both of these global conflicts, but rather to present all those things that reminds us of them and that keep memories of these events alive forever. It asks what these buildings, ruins or relics mean today, whether they are venerated or alternatively rejected on one side of the Channel or the other.
Press Contact Musée des beaux-arts : Marie-Astrid Hennart 00333 21 46 43 10 – [email protected]
At the Musée Mémoire 1939-1945 From 26 th May to 26 th August 2014
« General De Gaulle during the Great War » in conjunction with the Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle in Lille.
CHURCH OF NOTRE DAME (conclusion of renovation works), TUDOR GARDEN and STATUE OF THE DE GAULLES The church of Notre Dame (XIVth C.) is the main reminder of the English presence (1347-1558) following the Bourgeois de Calais episode.
It is also the church in which Charles De Gaulle married Calais girl Yvonne Vendroux. At the end of 2013, a statue that represents the presidential couple was built in the vicinity of this most ancient religious building in Calais, which has been reconstructed.
An English garden (Tudor Garden) that stretches the length of its nave will also be a feature of this new-look church of Notre Dame de Calais.
Contact: City of Calais - 00333 21 46 62 00 - [email protected]
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 12 Château d’Hardelot Redevelopment works in 2014 Reopening in July 2014.
A tea room will welcome visitors at the entrance to the estate.
Restored in 2009 by the Pas-de-Calais Departement, the Château d’Hardelot is today a cultural focal point that is dedicated to the relationship between France and Great Britain.
In summer 2014, the Château d’Hardelot will open fully to the public. Visitors can discover the interior decorations dating from the XIXth century which have been recreated. Through these works, every element of the décor tells the story of this Franco-British history.
Medieval Spring: from 20 th April to 17 th May 2014 Concerts, entertainment, workshops relating to the medieval era.
The Midsummer Festival: from 13 th June to 5 th July 2014 Festival of baroque and classical music, opera and theatre.
The Summer Season: summer 2014 An eclectic programme with a Franco-British accent: concerts, theatre, opera, open-air cinema, street theatre, etc.
Fairy Night: 31 st October 2014 Music & Cup of tea: winter 2014-2015
Contact : Château d’Hardelot – Tel. : 00333 21 21 73 65 - www.chateau-hardelot.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 13
B/ Sport and wellbeing
Nordic Walking at Wissant. Jérôme Casagrande offers guests a range of sporting activities in the heart of the Deux-caps site. A la carte sporting activities. Themed mountain biking and walking routes, beginners courses or advanced sessions for mountain biking, cycling, BMX, orienteering courses by day or night, physical training and sporting seminars, Nordic Walking.
Atout Sport - Jérome Casagrande WISSANT +33 (0) 321 17 20 51 - www.atoutsport.fr
Bed & Kite Water sports and accommodation: Kite Surfing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Kite flying
Instructor Marc Hocquet has taken up residence in Marqusie and provides packages that include accommodation and leisure activities.
Bed&kite offers kite surfing courses from one to four days, depending on the guest’s needs, with accommodation in a gite that is set within a mill. The package includes equipment hire and instruction for up to four participants, tailored to suit their age and level of expertise, on the beaches in between Boulogne- sur-Mer and Calais. MARQUISE - +33 (0) 668 98 58 05 – www.bedandkite.fr
Rafting on the River Slack A unique experience: cruising down the Slack, a small river that empties into the sea next to the Fort d’Ambleteuse, to the north of Boulogne-sur-Mer. This is a 2 km adventure, from land to sea, in the company of a nature guide who can explain the history of this river and reveal its flora and fauna, as well as the many different landscapes that the Slack traverses. It is a gentle trip on board a raft that sits up to 12 people and which does not require any great physical effort.
Franck Viandier heads up Tendao – specialist leisure and tailor made excursions company – and is also the founder and organiser of the Trail Côte d’Opale (in September). Opalevents – tel. +33 (0) 3.21.99.57.17. www.opalevents.fr Côte d’Opale pages
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 14
C/ Nature and Environment
Opening of the Maison du Site des Deux-Caps in Audinghen end June 2014.
The Maison will serve as the departure point for a range of nature based leisure activities. − 3 Nordic Walking itineraries. − A mini orienteering course. − 5 walking routes from Cap Gris-Nez and the centre of Audinghen − A multiservice centre for mountain bikes (pumps and bike wash facilities) at the departure point of several mountain biking routes and the first section of the Ambleteuse to Audinghen coastal cycle path. www.les2caps.fr - [email protected]
Landscape Interpretation Centre, Terre des 2 Caps
The diverse origins of the natural and built up landscapes (bunkers, marble quarries) has led to the evolution of the area and given rise to 3 main landscape types: coastline and areas behind the coastline, the quarry basin and its urban zones, the landscape of small fields and hedgerows of Monts and Vallons that lies between the Slack and Wimereux rivers.
The Terre des 2 Caps can boast some of the Nord-Pas de Calais region’s most important environments and landscapes, which deserve to be preserved, managed and, above all, shared.
This facility will allow groups to be welcomed in the best possible conditions, offering them a global vision of the rich heritage that exists across this territory and favouring a sustainable development of the area. It will also serve to encourage visitors to spread out more widely across the entire territory.
Le Cardo – 62250 Marquise – tel.00333.21.87.93.30.
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 15
The marshlands in the city centre of St Omer
La Maison du Marais is, above all, a facility for tourists that aims to welcome visitors and inform them about the rich Audomarois marshes , although it also serves as a centre for the promotion of a heritage that is specific to these marshland areas and as a space for meetings and cultural exchanges.
Located at the entrance to Saint- Omer, opposite the Boulevard Pierre Guilhain, the Maison du Marais aims to be a facility built with great respect for the environment, thanks in particular to its metal framework and wood cladding.
This structure will be built across 2 floors with, at ground level, a market hall, a boutique area, restaurant and exhibition room, whose scenography will focus on the following themes : the marshland viewed from above, history and creation of the marshlands, the relationship between man and the marshlands, the daily life, culture, flora and fauna of the marshlands.
Each area will be fitted with audio, video and olfactory systems that will provide excellent accessibility for all members of the visiting public.
The second floor will contain workshop areas, the centre for research and development for water and the offices of the Regional Nature Park.
Outside the building, visitors will find an interpretive roof garden and a conservatory garden that will represent the farmed plots of the marshlands, a 4km educational trail and a jetty linking the site with the rest of the marshlands, all be set around the Moulin de l’Aile windmill, the pride of the Maison du Marais.
Opening July 2014
Contact : St Omer Tourist Office Anne-Sophie Taufour Tel. : 00333 21 98 01 62 [email protected] www.tourisme-saintomer.com
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 16
Nausicaa 2014
The space around the tactile zone will be entirely reimagined. Visitors will be able to discover new areas and renovations to the decor.
A new zone will be dedicated to The Thalassa, an oceanographic vessel belonging to the IFREMER research institute.
Temporary exhibition « Islands Stories » 2014, International Year of Small Island Developing States
At the beginning of February 2014, NAUSICAA launched a Smartphone app using innovative technology to recognise the shape of fish.
NAUSICAA can now offer its visitors a unique experience. The "NAUSICAA" app suggests using the "magic eye" to flash a species seen along the visitor route and gain direct access to information about it. The app draws its information from NAUSICAA's own aquariological database.
Having downloaded this app, visitors to NAUSICAA will be able to listen to the audioguide throughout the visit. They will also be able to store their photos, videos and "magic eye" research in "My Visits", a way of ensuring that memories are kept for ever. A NAUSICAA experience is full of emotion, before, during and after the visit
The application, called quite simply "NAUSICAA", is available on the App Store and Google Play for € 2.69.
Contact: NA USICAA - Ingrid PICQUART Tel: 00333 21 30 99 99 - www.nausicaa.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 17
Platier d’Oye Nature Reserve A new route that is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility.
The Platier d’Oye is a nature reserve and a haven for migratory birds and Highland cattle. A new route, accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, is in the process of being readied by Eden 62. It will allow all visitors to discover or rediscover this remarkable 400 hectare nature site where the flora and fauna truly flourish. In addition to this, a fun booklet entitled « From grain of sand to dune », specially created for families, will be available from spring. It will help children to discover how the dune system was formed and to learn whilst having fun in the heart of nature.
> For more information contact CPETI on 00333.21.00.83.83 or at www.tourismeaudruicq- oyeplage.fr
* 2 Nordic Walking routes; From springtime 2014, - The Augustin Lesage route – departs Burbure – is a double loop across the coalfield site - 3km (30 minutes) and 5 km (45 to 60 min.) long. - The Rietz des Dames route – departs Mont-Bernanchon (Géotopia, La Maison de la Nature) – 8.7 km (1h45) long.
* Canoeing – departs Robecq, on the river « Busnes » - 5.8 km (1h30 to 2h) long (equipment not supplied)
The river Lys Eco Lodges Walking ands cycling routes along the length of the Lys Valley, with great value accommodation in 10 log cabins located from Fiefs (Bethune) to Gand (Belgium).
New sites :
- The Mont-Bernanchon Eco Lodges (March 2014) will be located close to Geotopia, La Maison de la Nature. Thanks to its astronomical observatory, visitors will be able to spend an evening gazing at the stars (studies of the Moon, Jupiter, the stars…). www.geotopia.fr
- The Fiefs Eco Lodges (October 2013) can be combined with a Greeter Visit, in the company of Mayor René Choquet himself. This is an opportunity to discover the heritage of the commune (remembrance sites) and the surrounding hills.www.greeters62.com
Single rate: €36 for 4 people per night. Lys sans Frontières Tel 00333 21 25 10 68 or at www.lys-sans-frontieres.org
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 18
D/ Chambres d’hôtes B&Bs, Gastronomy, Hotels
New Chambres d’hôtes :
Chambres de la Haute Muraille, St Folquin (Calais)
The Chambres de la Haute Muraille are situated within a 17th Century farmhouse that has been renovated, using a blend of modern and traditional styles. The 4 rooms boast a refined decor that blends the authentic with the contemporary.
> Beatrice ROBE - 821 rue du capitaine Henri Coustre - 62370 Saint-Folquin - Tel : 06.87.84.50.90 - www.chambres-haute-muraille.com - [email protected]
Un Matin dans les bois Loison-sur-Créquoise, (Montreuil-sur-Mer / Hesdin))
By turns a coaching inn used by the Templars, a horse farm breeding Boulonnais horses, a hunting lodge and vegetable farm, this 17th century manor house and its out- buildings, set across nearly 5 hectares of woodland, orchards and clearings, have now become guest rooms that offer the warmest of welcomes. The original setting, history and authenticity give this property a character all of its own.
The stables, farm and dovecot have all given way to 4 wonderfully comfortable guest rooms . Another surprise is waiting in the woods, with a treehouse that allows guests to spend the night amidst the gentle sounds of the forest. A couple’s getaway, a family break or a stay with friends, this estate can sleep up to 10 people.
http://unmatindanslesbois.com
Le Château de la Marine Guest house and tables d’hôtes Wimille (Boulogne-sur-Mer)
« Seduced by the charm and authenticity of the Château de la Marine, constructed between the land and the sea, we acquired this property and have entirely renovated it in order to provide our guests with an exceptional place to stay, blending comfort and conviviality. The pleasure of welcoming guests, the love of meeting people and the desire to share with them our love of beautiful things and fine cuisine, those are the main principles that inspired us to live this lifestyle.
Sheltered from the stresses of city life, enveloped by the sound of the birds and the gentle pace of nature, you will discover a quality of welcome here, in a setting that is ideal for enjoying some unforgettable moments. «
www.chateaudelamarine.com
Les Cèdres Bleus Liévin (Lens), City Break Premium Label
« We are delighted to welcome you to our home, typical of the region and once reserved for mining engineers. We restored this property that dates back to 1927 whilst preserving its charm of yesteryear: high ceilings, marble fireplaces, original floorboards and cupboards... »
3 rooms.
www.cedres-bleus-lievin.fr
Pas-de-Calais Tourism 20
De l’Autre Côté Mont-Saint-Eloi (Arras, Lens)
On the Via Francigena road, 10 km from Arras and 19 km from Lens, 2 well-appointed guest rooms set in a typical stone building that has been fully restored. Enclosed grounds, courtyard, terrace, private parking, garden furniture. Rooms with fireplace.
www.gites-de-france.com
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Gastronomy
L’atelier de Marc Meurin at the Louvre-Lens
- Number of covers: 80 in the dining room and 40 on the terrace. It is possible to welcome groups from 20 to 24 people.
- A « locavore » cuisine that focuses on local products (lamb, pork, fish and seafood from the Côte…) - A cuisine based on fresh ingredients - A refined and contemporary setting, reflected in a refined and contemporary cuisine which showcases the products of the terroir in the same way that a building showcases the work of its architect. - The restaurant has a price range similar to that of Bistrot de Jean in Lille. 3 course set menus start at under €30. - The ambition of Marc Meurin is for L’Atelier de Marc Meurin to receive a mention in the Michelin guide under his stewardship. Contact: OT Lens-Liévin – Marlène VIREY – 00333 21 72 66 52 - www.tourisme-lenslievin.fr www.atelierdemarcmeurin.fr
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E/ Agenda of main events
Arras
Fine Arts Museum "100 masterpieces from Versailles" 27 th September 2014 – 13 th March 2016 The Fine Arts Museum in Arras once again welcomes the Château de Versailles. Around a hundred masterpieces from the collections of the Château de Versailles, some of which have never previously been loaned, will be on display. Paintings, sculptures, furniture, objets d’art… Visitors will discover works by some of the greatest artists of their time, created in the most precious materials, such as the bust of Louis XIV taken from the Ambassador’s Staircase, the monumental tapestries of the Gobelins, the Dauphin’s large bureau… www.musenor.com
"The Boves Garden" From 22 nd March to 2 nd July. The Boves were excavated from the Xth cenrtury onwards. These ancient underground limestone quarries play host to the Jardin des Boves every spring, an installation dreamed up by the visual artist Luc Brevart. For this new season, aquatic plants and luxuriant vegetation will reveal all their beauty to visitors. www.explorearras.com
Remembrance ceremony, 96th anniversary of the Battle of Arras 9th April at 6h30. 9th April 1917, 5h30 (English time) : 24,000 soldiers surged out of the Carriere Wellington to rescue the famous Battle of Arras, an operation designed as a diversion prior to the attack on the Chemin des Dames. They lived in these underground caves, linked by tunnels dug by New Zealanders, for several weeks before the offensive. Carrière Wellington - Tél 00333.21.51.26.95 - [email protected]
"Main Square Festival" July Since 2004, at the start of the month of July, Arras hosts the Main Square Festival that brings together on the same bill the biggest names in pop rock and electro. www.mainsquarefestival.fr
"Christmas Market" December A meeting point where visitors can enjoy a thousand and one pleasures, over the years the Christmas village in Arras has become one of the largest of its kind north of Paris. The exceptional façades that surround the Grand’Place are unique in Europe, and provide a prestigious backdrop to this village. With nearly 100 exhibitors, come and wander along the spacious aisles that are perfect for a stroll and that lead you to specially created entertainment areas. Festive magic, wood fires, musical rendezvous and workshops, the aroma of fine food, twinkling lights: come and share in some truly convivial moments… www.explorearras.com
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Berck
"28th International Kite Meeting" 12 th to 21 st April 2014 Professional and amateur kite flyers gather at Berck-sur-Mer for the International Kite Meeting. After visiting the kite building workshops, young and old alike will be able to wander through the Wind Gardens. Like the wind, shows and entertainment are free…and the beach is open to everyone! www.cerf-volant-berck.com
Béthune
"Christmas Market" December A magical rendezvous that should not be missed where everyone can find the present they are looking for, to give or to receive, with over 30 wooden chalets where artisans and traders sell original gifts and traditional objects, as well as something to spoil yourself. Younger visitors will enjoy the rides, discover the animals in the manger and even take a ride in a carriage… www.tourisme-bethune-bruay.fr
"Zart'Up", Festival of street performance. 16 th to 18 th May. Unmissable and popular, this street performance festival is a flourishing rendezvous where comedians, circus acts, dancers and musicians transform and reinvent the city. Artists decorate the façades, squares, neighbourhoods and every public space available and invite families and neighbours to share in this great moment of artistic discovery and conviviality. www.tourisme-bethune-bruay.fr
"Bethune Retro" 29 th to 31 st August. Concerts, exhibition of cars, retro catwalk show, spare parts fair... the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s are all celebrated here. www.tourisme-bethune-bruay.fr
Hardelot
"Midsummer" June Across 3 weekends, at the foot of the ramparts of the Château d’Hardelot, an ephemeral Elizabethan theatre will be constructed from wood and canvas. The idea of the Midsummer festival was born from this time and place, but it is also inspired by Shakespeare and his Midsummer Night’s Dream. French and British musicians have been invited to explore the links and differences between the two cultures. www.chateau-hardelot.fr
"Classical Music Festival" 28 th July – 10 th August. A Classical Music Festival with an established reputation, it draws people from all regions of France and beyond.
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Once again this year, the programme promises to be eclectic, with a bill that is full of prestigious artists. www.festival-hardelot.fr
"Festi Mômes" From 26th October to 2 nd November For one week, children will be able to enjoy themselves with activities to suit all tastes: shows, processions, courses, workshops and storytelling are all planned for this event. http://festimomes-hardelot.fr
Le Touquet
Henri Le Sidaner and his artistic friendships Exhibition From 5 th April to 28 th September 2014: The Touquet-Paris-Plage Museum was founded in 1932 thanks to a donation from the artist, and it revisits today the artistic friendships that marked the life of this intimate, simple and friendly painter. Invited to come to the Côte d’Opale by his childhood friend Eugène Chigot, together they presided over the Société des Amis des Arts and organised the very first salons held by the artist’s community of Etaples. There, he was to meet Eugene Vail as well as Henri Duhem, who became his confidant, companion and patron. Musée du Touquet-Paris-Plage www.letouquet-musee.com
"Les Pianos Folies" August Grand international festival in honour of that most regal instrument, the piano, unfolding wherever the public may be, at any moment and in any place! www.lespianosfolies.com
"British Week" October Le Touquet pulsates to British rhythms for a whole week. Sporting activities, cultural entertainment, culinary tastings, guided visits to discover the people and the places frequented by our near neighbours from across The Channel... www.letouquet.com
"Si Le Touquet m'étais conté" December The seaside resort transforms into a fairy-tale city, luminous, full of entertainment for young and old alike.
Lens-Liévin
"Reconstruct" – Harnes 22 nd February to 27 th April Within the context of the centenary of the First World War, an exhibition based on the theme of « The Reconstruction » is currently taking place. This exhibition will showcase the collections of the Museum of the History of Archaeology and will highlight the consequences of the conflict on local history and the resources brought to bear to assist in the reconstruction of the area... This exhibition carries the Centenary Label.
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Exhibition organised by the city of Harnes in conjunction with the Friends of Old Harnes, and in partnership with the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire service of the Lens-Lievin Tourist Office and the Museo-Expography Masters students of the University of Artois in Arras. Museum of the History of Archaeology in Harnes - Tel 00333 21 79 42 79 - marie-elodie.stys@ville- harnes.fr
Montreuil-sur-Mer
"Les Miserables" Son & Lumiere show From 25 th to 28 th July and from 1 st to 4 th August On the 4th September 1837, Victor Hugo visited Montreuil-sur-Mer, its ramparts and its abbey. A few years later, he chose to use this city as the setting for much of the first part of his most famous novel... www.lesmiserables-montreuil.com
Medieval Day- Azincourt July For one day, visitors will be able to discover the daily life of a military camp at the start of the 15th Century. Just like every year, a jousting tournament will be held, followed by a battle re-enactment to close the event. Contact : Centre Historique Médiéval – 00333 21 47 27 53 – www.azincourt-medieval.fr
Terre des 2 Caps
"Côte d'Opale Trail” 13 th and 14 th September A true human adventure, here you can walk anything between 7 and 67 km along well signposted routes… www.trailcotedopale.com
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The main gastronomic festivals :
May - La Fête du Crabe – Audresselles Sale of crabs, exhibition of Flobart fishing boats and objects from the sea all set to music, in the village square. Free Contact : 00333 21 32 96 81
July - La Côte d’Opale celebrates the Sea All the area’s maritime heritage comes together: traditional boats, trips out to sea, step aboard the ships, concerts of sea shanty singing, experts’ village and demonstrations of maritime crafts, tastings of the produce of the sea… Tourist Office – 00333 21 10 88 10 – www.ville-boulogne-sur-mer.fr
- Redcurrant Festival, Maison du Perlé - Loison sur Créquoise . 50 rue Principale – 62990 Loison sur Créquoise – 00333 21 81 30 85 – www.perledegroseille.com 15 th August. - The Blessing of the sea – Audresselles Mass will be said, followed by a procession towards the beach where the boats will receive a blessing. Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.824.800 - [email protected] - Grand Procession at Boulogne-sur-Mer
August - Locon Garlic Fair An unusual fair that is perfect for a pleasant Sunday in the country. A rural village fete at the heart of which local producers sell garlic, onions and shallots in this countryside setting. Contact: ALLES 00333.21.27.81.75
- Flobart Fishing Boat Festival- Wissant Wissant celebrates traditional fishing and honours the boat of the Boulonnais coast. All day Saturday, from 10h: entertainment, exhibitions and concerts All day Sunday in the centre of the village: entertainment based on the theme of the Flobart boat and the sea. Tastings of the produce of the sea, maritime crafts stands, exhibition of Flobart boats, street artists, concerts of sea shanties and maritime folk music in the open air. Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.824.800 - [email protected]
September
- Shallot Fair - Busnes The Shallot Fair is a rendezvous that should not be overlooked, providing visitors with the chance to come and stock up on shallots. It’s also the ideal opportunity to meet the men and women that grow them. Every year, the Confraternity of the Order of the Shallot of Busnes welcomes other gastronomic confraternities for the traditional « confraternities’ procession » where they enthrone a new member. Tourist Office - Tél 00333.21.25.26.71 - [email protected]
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- The La Beurière Festival – Boulogne sur Mer The folk group "Les Soleils Boulonnais" will organise, for the 15th consecutive year, the traditional "La Beurière Festival" in the heart of the this historic and traditional Boulonnaise seafront neighbourhood. Office de Tourisme - Tel 00333.21.10.88.10 - [email protected]
- Festival of the Andouille – Aire sur la Lys Speciality of the town, the Andouille sausage is celebrated every year on the first Sunday of September. In the morning: fun-run. In the afternoon: at 15h there is a carnival procession followed, at 18h, by the traditional throwing of the Andouille from the bailiff’s balcony. At 19h there is a variety show. Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.39.65.66 - [email protected]
October
- Saint-Omer, Capital of the Vegetable. Place de la Ghière (Haut Pont) in St-Omer.
- Chicory festival at Nouvelle-Eglise, Vieille-Eglise, St Omer Capelle and St Folquin Thanks to the sandy soil found in this area that is perfect for growing chicory, the Audruicq Oye- Plage region has become the leading chicory producer and processor in France. 95% of all French chicory is produced in the region of Audruicq Oye-Plage. Every year, on the 3rd weekend of October, the area celebrates chicory with a promenade and spectacle called « Chicorium Delirium », an exhibition on the uses of chicory, a gastronomic fair focusing on « cooking with chicory » ... and even an enthronement into the Confraternity of Cossette Chicory. New: Didier Verhaeghe, chef-patissier trained at the « Lenôtre » school in Paris, offers « cooking with chicory » cookery courses during the fair, aimed at teaching visitors how to make the most of this vegetable in their own kitchens. Information : CPETI : 00333.21.00.83.83 www.tourismeaudruicq-oyeplage.fr
- Festival of Soups – community of communes of Montreuil-sur-Mer Rendezvous at the citadel of Montreuil sur Mer where the Saveur, Terroir & Hostellerie en Pays de Montreuil Association, with the help of the Tourist Office, organise the 6th edition of the Festival of Soups and Breads. In addition to the traditional tastings there are a great many other entertainment events: farmer’s market, sketches, medieval entertainment… A competition to find the best soup, open to anyone, is also on the agenda. Visitors can taste the competing soups and vote for their favourite. Ballot papers are collected in an urn after the tastings. (Results of the voting will be announced at the end of the day). Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.06.04.27 - [email protected]
November
- The Herring King Festival in Etaples sur Mer A CULINARY AND CULTURAL MIX WITH A FESTIVE AMBIANCE! For a whole weekend, this «traditional» rendezvous floods Etaples with all the effervescence of past fishing seasons. Smoked, grilled or marinated, the Cité des Pêcheurs invites you all to come and sample this seasonal fish. At the port of Etaples, which exudes the aroma of grilled fish across an area of 500m in diameter, «Les Bons Z’Enfants», a local folk music group, encourages you to take part in the 21st edition of the «Herring King». This festival calls to mind a time when men, upon their return from sea, would joyfully celebrate their miraculous catch, of which the herring was the undisputed star.
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Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.09.56.94 - [email protected]
- The Herring Festival – Boulogne sur Mer This festival with a warm and convivial atmosphere pays tribute to the fish that was responsible for the boom times of France’s number 1 fishing port. Tastings, entertainment, folk music and traditional dancing. There is a charge for tastings. Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.10.88.10 - [email protected]
December
- Turkey Festival - Licques Every year, just before Christmas, Licques beats to the rhythm of the Turkey Festival (classified as one of the 100 most beautiful festivals in France): terroir market, procession of the noble Ladies and Gentlemen of the Confraternity of the Turkey of Licques, tasting of Licquoise stew, lunches and dinners with entertainment… Tourist Office - Tel 00333.21.35.73.73 - [email protected]
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Access
From main airports, by car To Calais To Arras Paris Charles de Gaulle : 2h30 Paris Charles de Gaulle : 1h40 Paris Orly : 2h40 Paris Orly : 2h00 Zaventem-Brussels : 2h00 Zaventem-Brussels : 1h40 Brussels Charleroi : 2h20 Brussels Charleroi : 1h40 London Heathrow : 3h00 London Heathrow : 2h50 Paris - Beauvais Tillé : 1h00 Paris - Beauvais Tillé : 1h30 Lille Lesquin : 1h30 Lille Lesquin : 40 min
By train TGV Nord : Paris – Calais : 1h30 / Paris – Arras : 50 min Eurostar : Paris – Calais : 1h30 / Calais – London : 1h00 Eurotunnel : Calais – Folkestone (UK) : 35 min
By boat P&O Ferries : Dover – Calais : 90 min My Ferry Link : Dover – Calais : 90 min DFDS Seaways : Dover – Calais : 90 min
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