Situated at the mouth of the river Liane, Boulogne is France's largest fishing port. Boulogne stands out from Dunkerque and Calais, with its charming medieval center, known as the ville haute. Adding to the picturesque mood are old walls surrounding the town and the shining dome of the ornate cathedral. Travelers love Boulogne for its sites and attractions, as well as its markets, shops and restaurants.
History
The medieval section of Boulogne began as Roman fortifications. In the meantime, the lower town section prospered with activity from the port. English king Henry VIII made history here, capturing Boulogne. Visitors can see the cannon balls he used in the crypt of the town's cathedral. By the early 19th century, Napoleon was using Boulogne as his base while he prepared to invade England. When he was defeated, the French monarchy returned to the throne and the English people began visiting again. One notable visitor was J.M. Turner, the English painter famous for his tumultuous seascapes.
Geography
Boulogne's fortuitous geography, across the English channel, has always encouraged British tourism. In addition, its maritime history promotes the continued practice of fishing, and the town boasts a vast fish market. Restaurants take advantage of the geography and resources to offer wonderful seafood preparations. Boulogne is also a popular seaside resort, and offers Nausicaa, a sea-life center, as well as stretches of sandy beaches.
Features
One of the must-see places in Boulogne is the castle-museum of Boulogne, inside the medieval walls, which houses a major collection of masks, Greek ceramics, Roman and medieval sculptures, paintings, African art and Egyptian pieces. Other sites of interest are the museum La Casa San Martin, Boulogne Cathedral, Helicea's swimming pool, the Boulonnais Nature Park, the BECASUC sweets factory, the Chateau-Musee, the geology museum Maison du Marbre, and the coastal footpath that stretches to Berck.
Considerations
When in Boulogne, do as the locals do and partake of fresh seafood. Among the top restaurants are Bar Hamiot (1 rue Faidherbe), a brasserie; Estaminet du Chateau (2 rue du Chateau) for simple preparations; L'Etoile de Marrakech (228 rue Nationale) for Moroccan dishes; the elegant La Matelote (80 bd Ste-Beuve) for gourmet seafood; Aux Pecheurs d'Etaples (31 Grande-Rue) for absolutely fresh fish; and Sucre Sale (13 rue Monsigny) for delicious salads and fresh baked goods.
Expert Insight
Adventure travelers who enjoy going off the beaten track rave about the Parc Naturel Regional Boulonnais a reserve dotted with footpaths that traverse cliffs, marshes, dunes and ecosystems, allowing wildlife to thrive. Another great natural resource is the Foret de Boulogne, a 200-hectare forest with paths zigzagging throughout.
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