See & Do

One hundred kilometres long, the Authie has cut a green valley which separates the Somme from the Pas-de-Calais. It flows into the Channel, at Fort Mahon, about 20 kilometres north of the Somme Bay. The Authie has two sources, both of them in the Somme, at Coigneux and at Coin. The one at Coigneux has been developed. The panels erected near the low wall that protects the source give you information about the river. The water of the Authie is of high quality. It is an ideal river for Salmonidae: trout and salmon will soon be able to return to the sources, thanks to the development work in progress on some of the weirs. Whereas the upper valley is wooded, the middle valley, which is more steep-sided, offers a succession of spinneys, marshes and arable land. The low houses in the hamlets that line this valley are abundantly decked with flowers.

A visit to the Valloires Gardens at Argoules, which extend for 8 hectares down to the river, is an absolute must.

Authie Bay is a vast estuary that has remained wild, between Fort-Mahon and Berck. A signposted footpath for exploring the dune environment stretches for 1.5 kilometres across the Authie dune, which is the property of the Conservatoire du Littoral (Coastline Preservation Agency). A little further on, the sea wall that protects the Bay offers a magnificent view of the estuary. The Environment Agency (CPIE) of the Authie Valley organises outings to explore the valley, on foot, mountain bike or by canoe. These outings give you the opportunity to learn how to read the landscapes and appreciate the wealth of flora and fauna of the different environments.

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The Somme Bay is the largest estuary in Northern France. Its very wide opening towards the Channel, over 5 kilometres from north to south, offers, depending on the tides and seasons, remarkable landscapes where sky, land and sea melt into each other in subtle shades and lights. Hundreds of species of birds visit here during migrations, some for a few hours, others for a whole season; some live here all year round, like the Common shelduck, because here they find an abundant and varied supply of food on the shore, around the lakes and marshes, in the dunes and the salt meadows. The Somme Bay is constantly evolving and is a great place for walks. It includes approximately 1500 ha of grasslands and a sandy, marshy area, of which 3000 ha are a nature reserve. The site is an extraordinary place for observing not only the flora and bird-life in all their diversity, but also the seal colony that has made its home there. Whether on foot, horse-back or in a sea kayak, a guide will always been on hand to accompany you. We do not advise you to explore the Bay alone; local clubs will be able to provide you with a professional guide.www. somme-toursime.com