Walking and Cycling in Picardy

Walking Holidays in Picardy

History lovers and those with an appreciation of diverse, unspoilt scenery will find a walking holiday in Picardy immensely enjoyable. From the moving war memorials of the Somme to the gently rolling terrain of the countryside, the enchanting shoreline to the Gothic architecture of its towns, the region offers an insight into modern French history that’s unlike any other.

Poignant scenes

As one of the bloodiest conflicts of the First World War, the Battle of the Somme is a harrowing exposition of the horrors of war. Visiting the battlefields on a walking tour provides the chance to experience poignant reminders of this monumental event.

Embark on the Remembrance Trail and discover the many military cemeteries of French, German, British Commonwealth, and American soldiers, and cross the battlefields themselves to follow in the footsteps of the brave military men that suffered during the Great War. For a fascinating insight into the events of 1914-1918, visit the Somme 1916 Museum in Albert with its array of exhibitions and items from the period.

Amiens

The administrative centre of both the Somme department and the Picardy region, Amiens is a beautiful city packed with history, stunning architecture, and a lively, dynamic ambience. A walking tour reveals everything the intriguing destination has to offer, with the undoubted highlight being the majestic Gothic Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Amiens. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral’s origins date from the 13^th century, and it has a lovely aspect over the River Somme. Also of interest is the Municipal Circus, one of the oldest remaining circuses in use today, having been constructed at the end of the 19^th century and inaugurated by Jules Verne.

Cycling Holidays in Picardy

An ideal location for historic exploration and leisurely sightseeing, Picardy offers a number of gentle cycle routes that take in such memorable scenes as the beautiful Bay of the Somme, lush pine forests, and a host of compelling towns and cities.

Bay of the Somme

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural splendour, the Bay of the Somme features stunning views across the English Channel, and is defined by its diverse scenery of marshes, dunes, and saltwater meadows. Embarking on a cycling holiday on the Bay of the Somme provides the perfect opportunity to see the migrating birds, coastal flora, and enchanting villages that line the seafront.

Cycle routes here also take in thick pine forests that provide a backdrop to the coast and the longest stretch of sand dunes in northern Europe, which possess a unique quality that imparts a sense of quiet admiration.

Grand architecture

Whilst Picardy’s 70 km coastline provides the chance to see nature at its finest, heading further inland reveals the region’s majestic architecture and rich heritage. From the magnificent Gothic architecture of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady in Amiens, to the castles of the Middle Ages such as Rambures, the region features powerful links to its past. Carrying visitors to towns and villages, and through the rolling scenery that has borne witness to so much history, a cycling holiday in Picardy is truly unmissable.