Just 14 miles form Abbeville and close to the seaside community of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, the little seaside town of Cayeux-sur-Mer is a marvellous beach holiday destination. A relaxed nature lover’s dream, this historic fishing community is a particular favourite of outdoorsy families, friends and couples during the summer months. Accommodation options include private cottages as well as boutique pads fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Cayeux-sur-Mer is a central spot known for its terrific jazz evenings.

A much-loved 19th-century Picardy resort town, Cayeux-sur-Mer boasts a collection of beautiful Belle Epoque villas, as well as a casino. Its popularity has endured with both French and international visitors, and the bustling boardwalk — one of the longest in Europe — is now studded with 400 brightly-painted beach huts. Spend your days soaking up the sunshine at the beach, honing your wind- and kite-surfing skills out on the water, or following meandering coastal trails on foot or bicycle. The Maison de la Baie de Somme focuses on the region’s wildlife, there’s top-notch birdwatching in the nearby wetlands, and seals can be spotted on quieter beaches.

Little ones will love riding the 18-kilometre Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme, a steam train route which runs from Cayeux-sur-Mer to Noyelles-sur-Mer. For superb regional produce, visit the thrice-weekly markets, or return to the best places to stay in Cayeux-sur-Mer to feast on freshly caught seafood.