Recently, our family embarked on a delightful weekend getaway to the Bay of the Somme, also known as the Somme Valley, in northern France. Often overshadowed by the glamorous south coast, this hidden gem on the west coast proved to be a revelation of stunning natural beauty.
Just a four-hour drive from 's-Hertogenbosch, we were able to set off early—our daughter Lotte had Friday afternoon off school, and son Luc finished his seventh-grade classes by 2 PM.
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As seasoned family travelers who frequently drive four hours for short breaks, we know the joys outweigh any perceived hassle. With engaging chats and sing-alongs, the journey flies by, revealing beautiful landscapes along the way.
With years of family vacations in southern France—near Monaco, Fréjus, or Cannes—and trips to Spain under our belt, the west coast had long eluded us. As nature enthusiasts, the 70 km² Bay of the Somme in Picardy, with its dramatic tides reminiscent of the Dutch Wadden Sea, was a must-visit.
Charming Le Crotoy is an absolute highlight. We based ourselves at Yelloh! Village Le Ridin campsite nearby—a compact yet fully equipped spot. Our eight-year-old daughter Lotte couldn't help but tease about our pink mobile home being "too babyish."
The harbor dramatically illustrates the bay's extreme tides. One photo from late morning inland, another from late afternoon across the water, reveals the astounding ebb and flow.
Beyond scenic walks through pastel-hued houses or along the beach, Le Crotoy offers excellent dining like fresh mussels. Our first day was perfectly spent soaking in the town and nature.
Endless family-friendly activities await. Here are our top recommendations based on our trip and research:
The flat terrain makes cycling ideal, especially with kids. Though rain thwarted us this time, rentals are available at our campsite. It offers a unique perspective on the landscapes.
The Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme steam train is a nostalgic hit for all ages, covering about 27 km with views you'd miss by car. Adults and children alike love it, and dining onboard is an option. More information about the steam train can be found here.
This 200-hectare protected area in the heart of the Baie de Somme reserve lets you observe thousands of birds (waders, shorebirds, wildfowl, raptors) and mammals year-round, undisturbed, with expert guides.
For an immersive experience, opt for horseback or carriage rides on gentle Henson horses—the sweetest breed around, suitable even for young children. More information can be found here.
Like in the Netherlands, seals thrive here. We joined a guided walk from Le Hourdel on Sunday, spotting colonies basking on mudflats and playing in the water—a thrill akin to dolphin-watching in Tenerife.
Heartbreakingly, we saw a lone white seal pup stranded by the tide. Local rescuers were coordinating its safe return to the colony.
True to French heritage, the Château de Rambures (30 minutes away) offers year-round tours in a picturesque domaine.
We'll return soon—a single weekend can't cover it all. We cherished Le Crotoy, seal spotting (including the pup), and walks, but missed the train, bird park, cycling, and campsite amenities like the heated pool and playground. Below is a video of our experiences.
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