Belfries, mining towns, slag heaps, greyness and rain are the images that we most often retain from a too quick visit to the North. But if you take the time, you will get a different view of this once highly industrialised part of France. Arras and its superb Grand'place, the Wellington quarry, the Louvre Museum in Lens, the promenade boats of old Douai, the citadel of Cambrai and its fortifications, Old Lille and its terraces are just some of the places to discover on this beautiful 185 km (5 hours) route.
There are 2 tourist stops on this route. You are free to stay for a few minutes or a few hours.
- The Douai belfry
- The Arras Citadel
1. The Douai belfry : Built in 1380, the Douai belfry is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop for a moment at the foot of the town hall and take the time to admire its imposing stature and the magnificent details that make up its façade. Its sublime spire, composed of the great lion of Flanders and 54 golden suns, is a real architectural gem.
2. The Arras Citadel : Built by Vauban from 1668 to 1672 to defend the town of Arras, the citadel has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2008. This superb historical monument is one of Vauban's twelve main fortifications!