PICARDY

The north of Picardy is sandwiched between the Pas de Calais and Upper Normandy, and its coastline mostly comprises sandy beaches and dunes either side of the Somme estuary. This coastal area is ideal for sand yachting, windsurfing, sailing, swimming etc.

Much of the region endured some of the fiercest and bloodiest fighting of both World Wars, including the Battle of the Somme. For historians of all kinds, there is a lot to see, including battlefields, memorials, museums etc. Even just crossing the Somme river is can send a chill down one's spine!

The capital of the region is Amiens, a university town with a lovely gothic cathedral.

The south of the region, which is on the border with Ile-de-France, is Chantilly, which is famous for lace, cream and equestrian pursuits, very much including the famous racecourse.


The east of the region shares a border with Champagne - Ardennes and in fact some of the Champagne vineyards are in Picardy.

Farmhouses tend to share the same architectural style of those in the Nord Pas de Calais.

As well as providing some very general information, these notes reflect my own impressions following many visits to France. They are, however, no substitute for the very good and interesting books which are available. William Pearson©