Hauts-de-France is northern France's dynamic region, forged from the historic provinces of Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardy. It is a land of soaring Gothic cathedrals, poignant WWI memorials, vibrant Flemish culture, and a rugged coastline along the Côte d'Opale. Lille, the cosmopolitan capital, anchors a region of surprising contrasts — from the underground citadels of Arras to the vast sandy beaches of Dunkirk and Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
GR120 Coastal Path — Cap Gris-Nez to Cap Blanc-Nez
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2
Forêt de Compiègne — Clairière de l'Armistice Loop
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3
Réserve Naturelle du Platier d'Oye Walk
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4
Cap Blanc-Nez to Sangatte Cliff Walk
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5
Hortillonnages de Wairy (Floating Gardens, Amiens)
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6
Marais Audomarois Towpath Walk (Saint-Omer)
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7
Baie de Somme Seal Walk (Le Hourdel)
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8
Monts de Flandre — Mont Cassel Summit Walk
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.