If you’re tired of spending hours in heavy traffic to reach crowded British beaches or you just fancy a day out somewhere a little different, Le Touquet is an ideal day trip destination.
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This beautiful little coastal town has been a British favourite for many years. Once an escape for the likes of Noël Coward and PG Wodehouse, it is now home to luxury spas, state of the art golf courses and many wonderful restaurants, as well as more energetic pursuits such as horse riding and kite surfing. Whether you seek a day’s relaxation or something a little more active, Le Touquet has something for everyone.
Start with breakfast
If you’re just visiting for the day, arrive early and make the most of your time. Le Touquet is full of wonderful little eateries, so start your day in France with coffee and croissants at one of the town’s many pavement cafes.
Go for a swim
If your heart’s desire is a lazy day on the beach, you’re in luck. Le Touquet beaches feature miles of fine white sands, colourfully painted beach huts and clean water to swim in. If it’s not a perfect day for sea swimming, the nearby water slides of the Aqualud water park is a wonderful substitute, especially for families, but it’s best to get there early to avoid queues.
Enjoy wonderful French Cuisine
No matter what your tastes, Le Touquet has something for everyone. For seafood lovers, Perard on Rue de Metz is an unmissable treat, with fresh local seafood and a much admired fish soup. Le Village Suisse on Avenue Saint Jean also commands rave reviews, and diners can enjoy gentle coastal breezes and warm weather from the balcony while tucking into something tasty from the very reasonably priced Menu Gourmand. Le Jardin on Place de l’Hermitage is also worth a visit, with its delightful garden setting and art deco feel.
Shop ’till you drop
Day trips to France wouldn’t be complete without a little shopping, and Le Touquet offers shoppers a wonderful range of French fare to take home for later. Stock up on French vintages at Le Touquet Vins or Cave Touquettoise, seek out delicious pastries and confectionery in the many bakeries and discover fine cheeses and rustic pâtés at the covered market (open Thursdays and Saturdays, also Mondays in summertime). Wander down the Rue Saint-Jean for more shopping, and don’t forget to stop in at Au Chat Bleu for chocolates before heading back to the Eurotunnel!
Play a round
Le Touquet is a golfer’s paradise, with a range of championship courses overlooking the sea and surrounding countryside. La Mer is probably the most famous, set in a conservation area with a woodsy, wilderness feel to it, but La Forêt is also worth a visit if you prefer something a little more level and easy to walk around.
Go for a ride
The Le Touquet Equestrian Centre offers a wide variety of activities, from pony games for children to family rides along the beach or through the countryside. The centre also has an archery range and racetrack.
Pamper yourself
If golfing and horse riding just sounds too much like hard work, why not relax for the afternoon at Thalassa Le Touquet, a beautiful spa overlooking the sea and offering a range of hydrotherapy and well-being treatments.
Have a flutter
If taking a chance at the roulette table is more your cup of tea, the Casino du Palais was the original inspiration for Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale. It offers a range of slots and table games, including Texas Hold’Em, for anyone hoping to beat the house.
