The northern region of Picardie has a small stretch of coastline on the English Channel, but is better known for its rural scenery, historic towns, family theme parks and its significance during the First World War. Visitors of many different ages and nationalities visit the Picardie region to pay tribute to those who died in battles like the Somme, while the region's proximity to both Paris and the ferry ports means it is easily reachable by public transport.
The main town of Picardie is Amiens, home to the largest cathedral in France. Forty-two metres tall and nearly 150 metres in length, the cathedral is home to over 100 oak pews and is the subject of a spectacular light show each night in December. There are also a number of intriguing museums in the town, including one dedicated to the writer Jules Verne who lived in the town for many years. Just outside Amiens is the Samura park, an outdoor museum showing how people lived in the region during prehistoric times. The attraction features interactive exhibits, live actors and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
A route through northern Picardie which takes the visitor to just some of the many First World War memorials in this part of France, including the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme and the Australian memorial in Villers-Bretonneux. For those who wish to learn more about this period in history and its effect on this part of France, there are museums in Albert about life in the trenches and in Peronne, giving an overview of the First World War. The Somme valley itself is, today, an area of peaceful, natural beauty where you can follow walking trails around the lakes formed by the Somme river. There are also boat trips along the Somme canal.
One of the most picturesque cities in the Picardie region, Beauvais is best known for the tapestries that were produced there in the 17th century. Nowadays, the town's biggest attraction is the unfinished Gothic cathedral with its magnificent astronomical clock. The device contains over 90,000 moving parts and has more than 50 different faces. Near to Beauvais is one of France's most popular family attractions, the Parc Asterix, inspired by the comic book character of the same name. Featuring rides, live shows and activities themed around the comics and their storylines, there is something in the theme park for kids (and adults) of all ages.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Picardie? Then below is a selection of gites in Picardie and villas in Picardie that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
