Is Abbeville a good base for a beach holiday?
Abbeville is considered an excellent and convenient base for exploring the beaches of the Baie de Somme. While not directly on the coast, it is a short drive from several popular seaside towns and vast sandy beaches. For instance, the medieval town of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is about a 15-minute drive away, and the expansive sandy beaches of Quend and Fort-Mahon can be reached in approximately 30 minutes.
What are the closest beaches to Abbeville?
The nearest beaches to Abbeville are in the coastal towns of the Baie de Somme. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is one of the closest, at a distance of about 17.5 km. Other nearby popular beaches include Le Crotoy (around 20 km), Cayeux-sur-Mer (about 29 km), and the extensive sandy shores of Quend-Plage and Fort-Mahon-Plage, both approximately 30 km away.
Are the beaches near Abbeville sandy or pebbly?
The beaches near Abbeville offer a mix of sand and pebbles. Cayeux-sur-Mer is famous for its long pebble beach that reveals sand at low tide. In contrast, Fort-Mahon-Plage and Quend-Plage boast vast expanses of fine, golden sand, making them ideal for traditional sandy beach activities.
How do you get to the beaches from Abbeville?
The most common way to travel from Abbeville to the nearby beaches is by car, with travel times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. There are also options for cycling, as some areas are connected by bike paths. For a unique experience, a historic steam train, the Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme, connects nearby towns like Le Crotoy and Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.
Can you swim in the sea near Abbeville and what is the water temperature like?
Yes, you can swim in the sea at the beaches near Abbeville, particularly during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warmest. However, the water in the English Channel is generally cool. Average water temperatures in summer are around 18-20°C (64-68°F). Many visitors find it refreshing for a quick dip, but it's not as warm as the Mediterranean.
Which are the best family-friendly beaches near Abbeville?
Fort-Mahon-Plage and Quend-Plage are excellent choices for families. They offer vast sandy beaches perfect for building sandcastles and playing games. These resorts are well-equipped with amenities, including sailing schools that offer courses for children, and other activities like sand yachting. Cayeux-sur-Mer also has a family area with a swimming pool and play area near the main beach.
What is the tide like in the Baie de Somme and why is it important?
The tides in the Baie de Somme are very dramatic, with the sea receding for several kilometers at low tide, exposing vast sand and mudflats. It is crucial to be aware of the tide times, as the incoming tide can be extremely fast, sometimes described as moving at the speed of a galloping horse. For safety, it is recommended to leave the bay at least 3 hours and 30 minutes before high tide and to consider a guided walk to explore the bay safely.
Are there opportunities for water sports at the beaches near Abbeville?
Yes, the beaches of the Baie de Somme are popular for various water and beach sports. Cayeux-sur-Mer is a nationally recognized spot for kitesurfing. Fort-Mahon-Plage and Quend-Plage are well-known for sand yachting, catamaran sailing, and sea kayaking. Stand-up paddleboarding is also a common activity along the coast.
What is there to do at Cayeux-sur-Mer besides the beach?
Cayeux-sur-Mer is famous for having the longest boardwalk in Europe, lined with over 400 colorful beach huts, which is a unique attraction. You can also visit the nearby fishing port of Le Hourdel to see fishing boats and potentially spot the local seal colony. The town itself has a charming seaside resort atmosphere with a casino and regular markets.
Which is better for a day trip: Saint-Valery-sur-Somme or Le Crotoy?
Both towns offer a charming experience. Saint-Valery-sur-Somme is a picturesque medieval town with a long promenade, many restaurants, and views across the bay, though its beach is small and can be muddy. Le Crotoy is known for its south-facing beach, which gets a lot of sun, and its vast expanse of sand at low tide. The choice depends on whether you prefer a historic town atmosphere (Saint-Valery) or a more traditional beach resort feel (Le Crotoy).
Are dogs allowed on the beaches near Abbeville?
Dog-friendliness varies by beach and season. Some beaches, like Plage de Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, are known to be popular for dog runs. At Cayeux-sur-Mer, dogs are generally allowed on the beach if kept on a lead. However, many of the main swimming areas on popular beaches like Fort-Mahon-Plage may have restrictions, especially during the busy summer months. It is always best to check the local signage at the specific beach you plan to visit.
Can you see the seal colony from the beaches?
Yes, one of the major attractions of the Baie de Somme is its seal colony. A great spot for seal watching is from the Pointe du Hourdel, which is at the southern end of the Cayeux-sur-Mer beach. The seals can often be seen resting on the sandbanks at low tide. Boat trips are also available for a closer look at the colony.
