Route: Lille - Bethune - Abbaye de Valloires - Arras - Douai - Lille
Duration: 11 h
The first stop of our tour will be at pleasant and charming city which has kept many traces of its past, despite severe destruction during the First World War. Former stronghold Vauban, Béthune is also a beautiful river port whose channel connects the area to the Lys and Deule. The town still has a beautiful architectural heritage where traditional Flemish houses line the Grand Place and the Belfry. There you can also enjoy gastronomic specialties, like Fort Béthune. This cheese made from leftover cheese blended with spices, white wine and alcohol. The next stop of the tour will be at Abbaye de Valloires which was founded in 1138 by the Count Guy II of Ponthieu as the 7th Cistercian abbey in France.In the 12th and 13th centuries the abbey was very prosperous and counted 100 monks. During the many wars that followed, the abbey suffered badly and parts were rebuilt several times. During world war I the abbey was used as a Belgian military hospital. From the front-entrance you walk through gardens to the former monks-refectory and onward to the central courtyard surrounded by vaulted galleries.The Baroque church has a beautiful metal screen to separate monks from noble origin from the less noble-ones. The wood-paneling , paintings and sculptures are superb especially the suspended angels. After wisit to Abbaye de Valloires we will drive to city Arras which is famous for its two gems that are the Grand Place (main square) and the Héros square. Surrounded by 155 houses of Flemish Baroque style, these two paved squares are magnificent and make an enchanting scene! Very lively, the Héros square, lined with covered galleries home to fine food shops and cafés, is dominated by the belfry of the town hall.The last stop of the tour will be at the town of Douai which situated on the edge of the River Scarpe and has preserved much evidence of its rich historic past: the town hall and its belfry of Gothic style, the Saint-Pierre collegiate church, the Notre-Dame church, the Valenciennes gateway, the Dauphin mansion looking onto the Armes square, and the facade of the Palais de Justice (law courts) reflecting in the waters of the River Scarpe.The magnificent belfry, UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a 62-bell carillon where from the top will open a beautiful panoramic view of the roofs of the city and the surrounding countryside. After we will return to Lille.
Price: per person
Duration: 11 h
The first stop of our tour will be at pleasant and charming city which has kept many traces of its past, despite severe destruction during the First World War. Former stronghold Vauban, Béthune is also a beautiful river port whose channel connects the area to the Lys and Deule. The town still has a beautiful architectural heritage where traditional Flemish houses line the Grand Place and the Belfry. There you can also enjoy gastronomic specialties, like Fort Béthune. This cheese made from leftover cheese blended with spices, white wine and alcohol. The next stop of the tour will be at Abbaye de Valloires which was founded in 1138 by the Count Guy II of Ponthieu as the 7th Cistercian abbey in France.In the 12th and 13th centuries the abbey was very prosperous and counted 100 monks. During the many wars that followed, the abbey suffered badly and parts were rebuilt several times. During world war I the abbey was used as a Belgian military hospital. From the front-entrance you walk through gardens to the former monks-refectory and onward to the central courtyard surrounded by vaulted galleries.The Baroque church has a beautiful metal screen to separate monks from noble origin from the less noble-ones. The wood-paneling , paintings and sculptures are superb especially the suspended angels. After wisit to Abbaye de Valloires we will drive to city Arras which is famous for its two gems that are the Grand Place (main square) and the Héros square. Surrounded by 155 houses of Flemish Baroque style, these two paved squares are magnificent and make an enchanting scene! Very lively, the Héros square, lined with covered galleries home to fine food shops and cafés, is dominated by the belfry of the town hall.The last stop of the tour will be at the town of Douai which situated on the edge of the River Scarpe and has preserved much evidence of its rich historic past: the town hall and its belfry of Gothic style, the Saint-Pierre collegiate church, the Notre-Dame church, the Valenciennes gateway, the Dauphin mansion looking onto the Armes square, and the facade of the Palais de Justice (law courts) reflecting in the waters of the River Scarpe.The magnificent belfry, UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a 62-bell carillon where from the top will open a beautiful panoramic view of the roofs of the city and the surrounding countryside. After we will return to Lille.
Price: per person
Comments
Mars, 16.12.2022
Countries
Countries: France
Our travel tips
Best guided tours of europe
When it comes to exploring Europe, guided tours offer a great opportunity to see and learn about the continent's history, culture, and attractions. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are plenty of guided tours to suit all interests and budgets. Here are some of the best guided tours of Europe to consider: Grand European Tour: This 15-day tour takes you through some of the continent's most iconic cities, including Amsterdam, Vienna, Budapest, and Paris. Along the way, you'll enjoy scenic river cruises, guided tours of historic landmarks, and cultural experiences such as wine tastings and folk performances. Northern Lights Tour: If you're looking for a unique and awe-inspiring experience, consider a guided tour of the Northern Lights. These tours typically take you to Norway, Finland, or Iceland, where you'll have the chance to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon and explore the surrounding wilderness. Best of Italy Tour: Italy is home to some of Europe's most beautiful cities, and a guided tour of the country will take you through highlights such as Rome, Florence, and Venice. You'll also enjoy cultural experiences such as wine tastings and visits to historic landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City. Alpine Adventure Tour: Read more ...European tours to France in spring
France is a popular European destination year-round, but visiting in the spring can offer a unique and beautiful experience. The weather is mild and pleasant, flowers are in bloom, and crowds are typically smaller than during peak summer season. There are plenty of European tours available that include France in the spring, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the beauty of this season. One of the most popular destinations in France in the spring is Paris. Known as the City of Love, Paris is a city that enchants visitors with its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the city's parks and gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries Gardens, where cherry blossoms and other flowers are in full bloom. Additionally, the city's famous outdoor cafes and bistros come alive in the spring, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine and culture. Another popular destination for European tours to France in the spring is the French Riviera. The region is known for its stunning coastline, charming seaside towns, and warm Mediterranean climate. Visitors can explore the glamorous city of Cannes, the historic city of Nice, and the picturesque village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. In the Read more ...
