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.

The Best Places to Stay in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

For a stylish B&B

• Au Vélocipède is a chic little B&B just a few streets from the waterfront. Expect retro interiors with a largely monochromatic palette and some pops of colour in five guest rooms — two of which have additional beds for children. Breakfasts of organic ingredients and flaky pastries are a real treat.
• La Femme d'à Côté, a sister property to Au Vélocipède, has just four rooms, two of which are mini suites with private sitting areas. Again, interiors are swish and characterful, perfect for well-heeled travellers. Just 50 metres from the water in the medieval town, this is a very hip, well-placed B&B.

For Families

• Les Tourelles is a charming red-brick house with ocean views and direct beach access. Simple, airy rooms include a dormitory with bunk beds for children, who will also appreciate the games room and bicycles for hire. The seafood restaurant is excellent. A characterful family favourite.

For Boutique Luxury

• Les Corderies Hôtel & Spa is an indulgent, 18-room boutique pad with ocean views and a superb spa. The excellent restaurant specialises in modern reimaginings of traditional dishes, and the indoor pool is ideal for unwinding. Light-filled rooms feature crisp, clean lines and big cosy beds — many within sight of the sea. A serene escape.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY House

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Charles de Gaulle Airport or to Paris-Beauvais Airport and travel onwards by car or train. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is less than 2.5 hours from Paris by train.
• Picardy is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between June and September for the warmest weather (peaking at around 24°C), although this is the busiest time to travel. April-May and October are quieter and cooler.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Amiens.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Picardy.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.