Discover the Calais XXL destination and its must-sees
A large-scale immersion into the culture of the Opal Coast
The Calais XXL destination is an invitation to experience culture on an extraordinary scale. Upon arrival, the Calais Dragon, a colossal creature measuring 10 metres high, fascinates with its allure and majestic movements. This mechanical giant, designed by the artist François Delaroziere, symbolises the identity of the port and seaside town that is reinventing itself. It travels along the seafront, transporting visitors on an immersive adventure, the secret of which lies in the exceptional know-how of urban theatre and movement. Coming aboard means discovering the town from a unique angle, to the rhythm of the dragon's wingbeats and fascinating stories about local history.
The Museum for Lace and Fashion, a true jewel of industrial architecture, traces the epic of mechanical lace since the 19th century. This museum, housed in a former factory, houses impressive Leavers looms, the operation of which is regularly explained by lace technicians. The museum also offers exhibitions dedicated to the great figures of fashion and contemporary creation. It is a captivating journey through time and know-how, where we discover how Calais lace has dressed generations of elegant people and designers around the world.
For art lovers, the Calais Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see. In the heart of the city, it presents a varied collection, from the Renaissance to modern works, with artists such as Rodin, Carpeaux and Delcambre. This museum is located in a park in the heart of the city, the Richelieu Park, an ideal relaxation area for a break between two visits, where the statue of Gaulle-Churchill also stands, recalling the historical links between France and the United Kingdom.
Heritage and History: An XXL Legacy in the Heart of Europe
Calais, with its strategic position facing England, has witnessed intense historical episodes. In the city centre, the Hôtel de Ville and its Belfry, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a striking example of neo-Flemish architecture. With its 76-metre belfry, it offers an exceptional panorama of Calais, the sea and the surrounding plains. This building, which combines grandeur and meticulous details such as the coloured stained glass windows and exceptional ironwork, is also an important landmark in the city's history, particularly for the famous statue group "The Burghers of Calais" by Rodin, which immortalises a tragic episode of the Hundred Years' War.
The fortifications of Calais , vestiges of past centuries, are essential witnesses of the defense of the city. The Citadel of Calais and Fort Nieulay , designed by Vauban, are pleasant places for a walk where you can discover the defense systems developed over the centuries to protect the city. These forts, which tell the story of Calais against invaders, today offer soft mobility routes, allowing you to explore the surroundings in a natural and peaceful setting.
Beaches and Natural Spaces: The Call of the Open Sea and Infinite Horizons
By the sea, Calais THE Beach is the ideal place to enjoy the benefits of sea air and a magnificent setting. This completely renovated seafront offers visitors relaxation areas, children's games, sports areas and a breathtaking view of the ferries crossing the Channel. On a clear day, the English cliffs appear on the horizon, adding a poetic touch to this exceptional panorama. The Perré Risban promenade, along the coast, allows you to appreciate the landscapes, between sand and ocean, regularly crossing the majestic passage of the Dragon of Calais.
Just a few minutes from the city, Cap Blanc-Nez, with its white chalk cliffs, is an emblematic natural site of the Grand Site des Deux Caps. Offering hiking trails with spectacular views, the Cape is the perfect place for nature lovers and photographers looking for stunning panoramas. The site is also ideal for observing marine wildlife and migratory birds, which find refuge in this exceptional setting. Between wild beaches and green hinterland, the coastline of Calais and its surroundings invite you to take refreshing walks in the heart of nature.
The hinterland, made up of meadows, marshes and picturesque villages, offers a soothing contrast to the dynamism of the coast. Here, each season reveals landscapes of changing beauty, where wheat fields rub shoulders with ponds and flowery meadows. These preserved natural spaces allow you to immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the region, with hiking and cycling trails that wind through the territory, connecting the different villages and natural sites.
XXL Experiences and Mobility: Discover Calais in Complete Freedom
The Calais XXL experience would not be complete without a smooth and free exploration of the territory. Thanks to the free transport network, it is easy to move between the different sites and the 14 municipalities. This service, which includes buses and shuttles, facilitates travel between the beach, the city center and the surrounding places of interest. Bike rentals are also available to enjoy the region in soft mobility, an ideal way to explore the trails and reach the natural viewpoints.
Cycling enthusiasts can take the Eurovelo Route #4 (Velomaritime in French), which crosses the coast, or the local trails that connect the different municipalities, offering routes suitable for all levels, with stops at the region's historical and natural points of interest. For those who prefer a more original experience, the Majest'in river shuttle offers a unique route between Calais and Coulogne, allowing you to appreciate the landscapes from a different angle, along the water.
Whether for visitors looking for relaxation, family adventures or cultural discoveries, Calais XXL is a destination where everyone can have a grand experience. With its warm welcome and rich heritage, this territory invites you to take the time to stroll, immerse yourself in history and enjoy the pleasures of nature.
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