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Road trip express: 6 places to explore under 1 hour from Lille this summer!

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The Editor

Libre voyageur

Want to set sail without jumping on a plane or draining your savings? Great news : within less than an hour from Lille, there are a thousand opportunities to change your scenery and mood. To show that the North has much more to offer than just fries, here are our 6 favorite spots to explore with your eyes closed (or wide open).

Cassel, the Balcony of Flanders

It's impossible to start without talking about the favorite spot for Lille locals craving fresh air. Cassel is THE gem perched high above the entire Flemish plain : 360° views, cobbled streets, and cozy cafes filled with the delightful aroma of local beer and an atmosphere that feels like a masterful painting. Here, you sip your coffee facing the windmill, climb up to the castle gardens (perfect for that Insta pic), and stroll through the Grand’ Place like you're in a holiday village. It’s THE place that brings everyone back in touch with the countryside.

Bergues, the city of the Ch'tis... but so much more!

Let's be honest : everyone rushes to take a photo in front of the belfry like Kad Merad, but Bergues is so much more than that. Take a stroll along the ramparts, enjoy a sweet treat from a local artisan, explore the romantic canals and brick alleys that smell of sweet life. Want to treat yourself to a slow-life day in the North ? Head to Bergues and soak up its charm.

Esquelbecq, the postcard village

This is the kind of place you want to keep to yourself (but we’re sharing anyway). In Esquelbecq, everything is lovely: Saint-Folquin Church, the village square, independent bookstores, and the castle that stands like a boss in the middle of town. It’s perfect for wandering around for an afternoon, browsing in the second-hand bookstores, or chilling on the terrace in the shade of the Flemish houses. It has a village vibe with an artsy twist.

The Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park, detox version

Do you dream of endless green spaces, ponds, bike rides, and peaceful paths without the sound of honking? Look no further, the Scarpe-Escaut Park is the perfect spot to take a deep breath and enjoy a true green getaway. On the menu : mysterious forests, chatty birds, and winding trails between meadows and rivers. Perfect for playing the adventurer (or just for a chic picnic).

Saint-Omer and its Audomarois Marshes, the Wild Surprise

Here, it's absolutely the spot if you want to feast your eyes. Between the marshes to explore by boat, the nature reserve, the maze of canals, and the charming old town, this place in Saint-Omer guarantees a disconnection from the hustle and bustle. Pssst : a ride in a bacôve (the typical boat) is really worth the detour, and you can even wrap up beautifully with a visit to the cathedral or with drinks in the square.

Wissant, the beach that changes everything

Alright, let’s stretch the time just a little bit! One foot in the English Channel, the other on the cliff: welcome to Wissant ! This little seaside resort (but with a big wow factor) is the perfect getaway for some salty air on the coast. Here’s what’s in store : fine sandy beaches, walks to Cape Blanc-Nez, kitesurfing spots for the adventurous, and charming little fish restaurants that smell like vacation. We said weekend, and there’s no need to head all the way to the French Riviera for a change of scenery.


Cassel, Bergues, Esquelbecq, Scarpe-Escaut, Saint-Omer and Wissant
Access by car or train depending on the destination, all within an hour of Lille (or almost)
Make sure to check the train schedules and restaurants before you go, so you won’t be left high and dry !