Selection of 5 of the most beautiful villages around Amiens

Planning to escape city life and discover peaceful, picturesque spots in Picardy? Then look no further! Here’s our selection of the 5 most charming villages around Amiens, combining history, natural beauty and culture. Prepare to be amazed by these captivating destinations.

1. Gerberoy, a veritable jewel case of roses

The charm of medieval times

Gerberoy, listed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, is famous for its medieval architecture and charming cobbled streets. The pastel-coloured half-timbered houses, carved wooden doors and wrought-iron signs plunge you into another era. Stroll through the narrow streets and climb up to the church of Saint-Pierre for a panoramic view of the village and surrounding countryside.

One of Gerberoy’s not-to-be-missed events is the Rose Festival, which takes place every year in June. During this celebration, the village is decked out in a thousand colours and intoxicating scents thanks to the roses that adorn the façades of houses and private gardens. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover Gerberoy at its most beautiful.

The gardens of Gerberoy

As well as its flower-filled lanes, Gerberoy is also home to a number of remarkable gardens. Among them, the Jardin des Ifs is a haven of peace and greenery. This medieval garden, with its centuries-old yew trees and topiary shrubs, offers an idyllic setting for a stroll or a picnic. Don’t forget to visit the House of the painter Henri Le Sidaner, whose terraced garden, adorned with roses, hydrangeas and wisteria, is a true masterpiece.

Finally, don’t miss a diversion to the Potager des Princes, a vegetable and ornamental garden offering educational workshops for young and old alike. This garden is a fine example of traditional market gardening and sustainable agriculture, highlighting local biodiversity and respect for the environment.

2. Hesdin, a lively and friendly atmosphere

A traditional market

Situated in the heart of the Canche valley, Hesdin is a lively village, renowned for its weekly Thursday market. This traditional market, one of the largest in the region, is a veritable institution and a place for locals and visitors alike to meet and exchange ideas. You’ll find local, seasonal produce such as fruit, vegetables, cheese and cold meats, as well as clothes, jewellery and handicrafts.

After your visit to the market, take the time to stroll through the streets of Hesdin and admire the facades of the historic houses and buildings, including the Hôtel de Ville, the Collégiale Saint-Martin and the Fontaine Sainte-Catherine. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss a visit to the Galerie d’Art Contemporain, which hosts temporary exhibitions by local and international artists.

Château de Fressin

Just a few kilometres from Hesdin, the 15th-century Château de Fressin is a must-see for lovers of history and architecture. This medieval fortress, surrounded by a moat, offers a majestic setting for a stroll in the grounds and a chance to discover the remains of the past. Guided tours and themed events are organised on a regular basis, including children’s workshops and falconry shows.

Finally, take advantage of your visit to Fressin to wander around the village and discover its other sites of interest, such as the Church of Saint-Martin and the Moulin de Maintenay, a water mill still in operation and open to the public for guided tours and demonstrations.

3. Le Crotoy, a pearl on the Bay of the Somme

The beach at Le Crotoy

Le Crotoy is a charming village on the Bay of the Somme, famous for its fine sandy beach, one of the few south-facing beaches in northern France. Le Crotoy beach is ideal for swimming, water sports, fishing or simply relaxing in the sun. Nature lovers can also watch the migratory birds that come to rest in the bay, including calf seals and seabirds.

As well as its natural attractions, Le Crotoy is also rich in history. The village has played host to many artists and writers, such as Jules Verne, Toulouse-Lautrec and Colette, who were seduced by the beauty of the landscape and the peaceful atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Maison de la Baie de Somme, an interpretation centre dedicated to discovering the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Boat trips

To discover the Baie de Somme in a different way, take a boat trip with a nature guide. As you sail along, you can observe the flora and fauna of the bay, as well as the tides and the ever-changing sandbanks. Boat trips are also an opportunity to visit nearby villages, such as Saint-Valery-sur-Somme and Cayeux-sur-Mer, and enjoy breathtaking views of the coast and cliffs.

Depending on the season, you can also take part in themed outings, such as gourmet walks, birdwatching or musical cruises. Don’t hesitate to consult the programme of activities and events to plan your stay in Le Crotoy.

4. Montreuil-sur-Mer, where history meets gastronomy

The ramparts of Montreuil-sur-Mer

Montreuil-sur-Mer is a picturesque, historic village perched on a promontory overlooking the Canche valley. The village is surrounded by medieval ramparts, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. A walk along the ramparts is a must for lovers of history and pastoral landscapes. Don’t miss a visit to the Citadelle, a fortified site dating back to the 11th century that played an important role in the region’s history.

As you wander through the cobbled streets of Montreuil-sur-Mer, you’ll also come across numerous historic and religious buildings, such as the Church of Saint-Saulve, the Abbey of Saint-Wulmer and the Chapel of Saint-Austreberthe. Take time to wander the streets and soak up the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of this village steeped in history.

The gourmet delights of Montreuil-sur-Mer

Montreuil-sur-Mer is also a popular destination for gourmets, who appreciate its Michelin-starred restaurants and quality local produce. The region’s culinary specialities include salt-meadow lamb, seafood, Picardy cheeses and craft beers. Local pastries and confectionery, such as macaroons, waffles and honey sweets, will also delight gourmets.

Finally, make the most of your stay in Montreuil-sur-Mer to take part in the various gastronomic and cultural events organised there, including farmers’ markets, guided tastings and cookery workshops. Montreuil-sur-Mer is an ideal destination for combining culture, history and culinary delights.

5. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, between history and nature

The old fortified town

Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, on the Picardy coast, is a village steeped in history, dating back to Roman times. The old fortified town, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and ramparts, is a true testimony to the past. Be sure to visit the 13th-century Gothic church of Saint-Martin and the Chapelle des Marins, a place of pilgrimage dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Barre.

The port of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, once an important trading and fishing centre, is now a place to stroll and relax. Here you can see traditional boats such as sailing ships and trawlers, as well as the seabirds and calf seals that frequent the bay.

The Baie de Somme railway

To discover the landscapes of the Baie de Somme in an original way, climb aboard the Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme, a tourist steam train that runs from Saint-Valery-sur-Somme to Le Crotoy via Noyelles-sur-Mer and Cayeux-sur-Mer. This train ride, which lasts around an hour, allows you to admire the beauty of the coastal landscapes, marshes and dunes, while enjoying the nostalgic charm of the locomotives of yesteryear.

The Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme also offers themed entertainment and events throughout the year, such as gourmet lunches on board, concerts and exhibitions. Check out the calendar of events to plan your visit to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.

In conclusion, the villages around Amiens are ideal destinations for lovers of nature, history and gastronomy. Don’t hesitate to take the time to discover these charming and authentic places, which will leave you with unforgettable memories. Enjoy your trip!