Discovering Hauts-de-France differently: our favourite hidden gems
The Jardin des Ifs in Gerberoy – a masterpiece shaped by time
In Gerberoy, one of France’s officially listed “Most Beautiful Villages” lies a garden that feels almost enchanted. The Jardin des Ifs is a delicate maze of ancient yews, English-style paths and old roses that perfume the air in spring. The topiary sculptures have been lovingly maintained for centuries, giving the garden its almost surreal geometry.
Don’t miss : the late-afternoon light when the yews cast long shadows on the half-timbered houses of the village. Pure magic.
The Quélipont Waterfall in Wargnies-le-Petit – a forest secret
In the heart of the Avesnois region, near the Belgian border, the Quélipont Waterfall is one of those rare places that locals hesitate to share. Tucked away in a peaceful woodland hollow, this little waterfall offers a soothing escape far from the crowds. The walk through the forest is short, shaded, and perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Our tip : pack a picnic and leave your phone behind. It’s the kind of place where time slows down.
The Laffaux Mill – history meets horizon
In the Aisne countryside, the Laffaux Mill stands as both a symbol of remembrance and a peaceful lookout point. Once the scene of fierce battles during the First World War, it is now a tranquil site surrounded by meadows and wooded slopes. A place to reflect, to breathe, and to admire sweeping views over the valleys below.
Good to know : combine your visit with a detour through the nearby villages - some still sell honey and locally brewed beers.
Saint-Pierre Park in Amiens – the city’s green heart
In Amiens, Saint-Pierre Park is a modern garden that feels wonderfully wild. Designed by landscape architect Alexandre Chemetoff, it mixes wetlands, wooden bridges and wide flowered lawns right in the city centre. Locals come here to stroll, cycle or read under the trees - but most tourists still pass it by.
Bonus idea : rent a canoe nearby to explore the famous hortillonnages (floating gardens) from the water.
The Audomarois Marsh – the northern Venice
Near Saint-Omer, the Audomarois Marsh is a world of canals, floating gardens and soft light. Classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s home to herons, barges, and generations of market gardeners who still cultivate their plots by hand. The best way to explore it is by traditional flat-bottomed boat, gliding silently through the reeds.
Highlight : visit the “Maison du Marais” to understand the living history of this extraordinary landscape.
Cap Gris-Nez at sunrise – nature’s purest show
Everyone knows the Opal Coast, but few experience Cap Gris-Nez at dawn. When the pink light brushes the cliffs and the English coast appears in the distance, it’s simply breathtaking. The wind, the cry of gulls, the endless sea - it’s a reminder that the simplest moments are often the most beautiful.
Tip : come early, around 7 a.m., before other visitors arrive.
Fort de Condé – a forgotten fortress in Aisne
Hidden between Soissons and Laon, Fort de Condé is an architectural treasure from the late 19th century. Restored with care, it now welcomes visitors into its vast stone corridors and peaceful surroundings. Sometimes it even hosts concerts and art exhibitions, adding a touch of modernity to its historic charm.
Insider’s secret: climb to the fort’s rooftop for a stunning 360° view over the Aisne valley.
The Familistère de Guise – an industrial utopia
Imagine a 19th-century social palace built for factory workers, where housing, education and culture went hand in hand. That was the dream of Jean-Baptiste Godin, and it still stands today in Guise. The Familistère is a fascinating mix of architecture and idealism - a place where history and human vision meet.
For the curious: take time to wander through the old galleries and gardens, some of which are still inhabited today.
Mont Cassel – the hill watching over Flanders
Cassel is a charming village perched above the Flemish plain. Its cobbled lanes, windmills and friendly estaminets make it a joy to explore. From the top of the hill, the view stretches for miles — sometimes even to the sea. And if you love good food, Le Sauvage restaurant is a must-try.
Must-do: stay for sunset. The light over the hop fields is simply unforgettable.
Camping de la Bien-Assise in Guînes – your base camp for exploring
To make the most of the region without giving up comfort, stay at Camping de la Bien-Assise in Guînes, just a few kilometres from Calais. This 5-star campsite, part of the Les Castels collection, sits in a lush 15-hectare park with a heated pool, gourmet restaurant and high-end lodges. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Opal Coast, the Deux Caps, and the hidden gems of the Pas-de-Calais.
Why we love it: peaceful atmosphere, friendly service, and the feeling of being both close to nature and a short drive from everywhere worth seeing.
The unexpected face of Hauts-de-France
Forget the clichés - Hauts-de-France is full of surprises. Behind every old gate or country lane hides a piece of history, a smile, a flavour, a story. Whether you’re drawn to secret gardens, quiet marshes or small village cafés, the region reveals its beauty to those who take the time to slow down and look around.
So wander, explore, get lost a little - that’s how you’ll truly discover the authentic soul of northern France.
