The most beautiful villages to visit around Lille

Lille is a city in the north of France with a rich cultural and historical heritage. But did you know that the surrounding area is also full of charming villages that are well worth a visit?

Whether you’re looking for a natural setting, a picturesque atmosphere or a romantic getaway, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for among these exceptional places in the Nord Pas de Calais. Here is our selection of the most beautiful villages in the Hauts de France region around Lille, less than 100 km from the capital of Flanders.

What are the most beautiful villages around Lille?

1. Gerberoy, a charming, colourful village

Located in the department of Oise, around 150 km from Lille, Gerberoy is listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”.

Architectural and historical heritage

Renowned for its cobbled streets and wisteria-covered facades, this charming little village has managed to preserve its architectural and historical heritage. As you stroll through the narrow streets of Gerberoy, you’ll be amazed by the superb half-timbered houses, some of which date back to the 16th century.

Flower-filled facades

Another typical feature of the village is the many flower-filled facades that line the streets, adding a colourful, bucolic touch to the whole. The Rose Festival Every year in June, Gerberoy organises its famous Rose Festival. Whether you’re a flower lover or just a visitor, you’ll be able to admire a wide variety of roses and their enchanting fragrances while enjoying the village’s historic setting. It’s an unforgettable experience, and one we highly recommend!

2. Le Crotoy, between bay and wilderness

In the Hauts-de-France region, 140 km from Lille, lies a veritable jewel of greenery: Le Crotoy. Situated in the heart of the Baie de Somme nature reserve, this village offers visitors landscapes that are as diverse as they are stunning.

A beach of undeniable charm

Le Crotoy is best known for its magnificent beach facing the Baie de Somme. This immense stretch of fine sand, bordered by natural dunes and marshes, offers an exceptional panorama. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a sunny day, have a picnic or go for a walk with the family.

Activities for nature lovers

The Baie de Somme nature reserve offers a wide range of outdoor activities to help you discover the local flora and fauna. This is a unique opportunity to discover the protected species that inhabit this exceptional natural site. For example, you can watch grey seals and sea calves resting on the sandbanks, or admire the migratory birds that stop over in the bay. You can also kayak, cycle or hike to explore the different landscapes along the coast.

3. Cassel, favourite village of the French in 2018

Cassel is a village in the Nord département, 50 km from Lille. It was voted “favourite village of the French” in 2018 by viewers of the programme presented by Stéphane Bern on France 2. It has to be said that Cassel has plenty to attract visitors.

An exceptional viewpoint

Cassel is perched on a hill overlooking the Flanders plain. At an altitude of 176 metres, it offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can even see the English coastline! To take in the panoramic view, there’s no better place than the top of Mont Cassel, where you’ll find the restored windmill and the public garden designed by landscape architect René Pechère.

A historic and cultural heritage

Cassel is a village steeped in history, dating back to Gallo-Roman times. It has experienced several troubled periods, including the Viking invasions, the Hundred Years’ War and the First World War. It was able to protect itself thanks to its fortifications, of which a few vestiges remain. It has also been able to develop thanks to its crafts, in particular beer and cheese production. Cassel is also a village that has preserved its Flemish traditions and culture. Every year, it organises the Cassel carnival, which attracts thousands of people who come to watch the parade of giants and the popular festival. It is also home to the Museum of Flanders, which displays works of art and artefacts testifying to the Flemish identity.

4. Hesdin, history and heritage in the heart of Artois

Less than 100 km from Lille, in the Pas-de-Calais département, stands proudly Hesdin, a historic town steeped in the great events of our past. Here, ancient monuments live side by side with an unspoilt natural environment.

Notre-Dame church and the Maison du Temple

During your visit to Hesdin, don’t miss the chance to admire Notre-Dame church, a fine example of flamboyant Gothic architecture. Built in the 18th century and renovated in 2017, it features a colourful décor with wood panelling and murals.

Near the church, you can also discover the Maison du Temple, a former Templar commandery dating back to the 13th century. It now houses a museum that traces the history of the town and the Order of the Temple.

Place d’Armes and the belfry

In the centre of the town, you can stroll around Place d’Armes, where the traditional market is held every Thursday. Here you can admire the belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which towers 23 metres above the town. Built in 1567, it is adorned with a clock and a carillon that chimes every quarter of an hour. It is also topped by a wrought-iron campanile supporting a weather vane depicting a cockerel.

The Hesdin state forest

If you’re a nature lover, you can enjoy the Hesdin state forest, which extends over 2,000 hectares around the town. It’s an ideal place to recharge your batteries and enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. You can admire a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as remarkable trees such as the Princes Oak and the King’s Beech. To find out more about Hesdin, read this article.

The most beautiful villages to visit around Lille are must-see destinations for lovers of culture, nature and gastronomy. They reflect the richness and dynamism of northern France, as well as its regional diversity. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a family getaway or a sporting adventure, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for in these exceptional villages. If you’re a fan of medieval towns, take a trip to Saint Valery sur Somme, the seaside resort of Malo les bains on the North Sea… Discover a region full of surprises.