We’ve finally arrived at France’s northern coast, in Le Touquet. It’s an area we’ve not explored before, having crossed inland through farmland on previous travels. The plan is to stick to the coast for the remainder of our time in France.
Le Touquet is set on the Canche river mouth. It’s subject to huge tides – water rises and falls by metres leaving boats moored on dry land at the tide’s lowest point. It’s a great spot for an afternoon drink, overlooking the water.
We’re right on the water only a short walk through a coastal park into the village. It’s beautifully unspoilt – there’s even bunkers for Himself.
Le Touquet’s heyday must have been the art deco period – its loveliest buildings are from the 1920s. Outside of these, the 60s appears to have been the next building boom although there are some more recent developments dotted about.
Best of all, we’ve found a family run Vietnamese restaurant in town. To say I’ve been missing Asian food could possibly be the understatement of this trip. It proves a good choice – the food is authentic and delicious – we have pork spring rolls with lettuce and fresh mint (inhaled before I remembered to take a photo), grilled pork and chicken with basil. Yum!
We walk back along the sea front, unusually quiet with the waterslide and seaside shops closed. We learn later that the site is set for redevelopment with a large hotel replacing everything on the foreshore. It’s a shame. I hope they don’t ruin Le Touquet’s old world charm.
The northern beaches couldn’t be more different to their glitzy southern counterparts. Here, long walks along the beach, icecream and kitschy paddle boats rule the day vs glitterati, designer gear and celebrity spotting. Le Torqet is beautifully caught in time warp. I love it.
Miss Baci Travels 