A little Picardy town on the beautiful Baie de la Somme, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is a superb seaside resort destination. Particularly popular with families during the summer months, this colourful medieval community is brilliant for active travellers as well as laid-back beachgoers. History aficionados, too, will find plenty to discover — including a number of characterful hotels and B&Bs tucked within heritage buildings. Ranging from intimate 4-bedroom guesthouses to pretty sea-facing spa hotels, the best places to stay in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme promise something for everyone.
Named for a monk who lived as a hermit on the headland from 611, Saint Valery has a fascinating history. In turn the gathering place for William the Conqueror’s fleet in 1066, and later the site of Joan of Arc’s imprisonment by the English, the town emerged as a bountiful northern French fishing port. More recently, writers and artists have flocked to its cafés, bars and beaches; Victor Hugo, Jules Verne, Alfred Sisley and Edouard Degas all had villas in the area. For a sense of this richly layered past, amble along the seaside ramparts, pop into the Chapelle des Marins and the Eglise Saint-Martin or ponder the Musée Picarvie’s exhibits.
Head to the beach for long walks, sandcastle-building or boat cruises, swimming and kayaking. The Baie de la Somme is an important wetland habitat, and nature lovers will find its flora and fauna — birdlife in particular — fascinating. Take little ones to spot seals soaking up the sunshine, or admire birds at the Maison de la Baie de Somme, and delicate flowers in bloom at L’Herbarium. Walking, cycling and horse riding trails abound, plus there are two 18-hole golf courses at Le Golf de Nampont. Sample regional produce at the lively Wednesday and Sunday market, before retreating to one of the best places to stay in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme for flavoursome seafood suppers.