The Lights of the Opal Coast
A week-long cycling loop starting in Dunkirk
Duration
7 days and 6 nights
Level
Leisure
Departure date
From March 1st to October 31st
Trip type
Self-guided trip
Trip type
Travelling loop
Destination
Key features
- The Privateer City of Dunkirk
- Saint-Omer, a Medieval City
- Exploring the Audomarois Marshes
- Boulogne-sur-Mer, City of the Sea and City of Art and History
- The Route des Caps: Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez
- The coastal village of Wissant and its wild beaches
- Local cuisine: craft beers and seafood specialties
The story of the journey
Solène, a travel consultant at Abicyclette Voyages, is originally from the Nord region. She has returned to her native region to plan this trip and help you discover the beauty of the Opal Coast. Her in-depth knowledge of the region allows her to highlight, throughout this trip, the region’s cultural richness, its quaint villages with cobblestone streets, the coziest local taverns, and the vibrant brewing tradition upheld by local producers. The authenticity of the rural landscapes, the warm welcome from the locals, and the local flavors make each stop a true immersion in the Nord region. For Solène, every cycling trip in this region is much more than just a bike tour, it’s an unforgettable human and cultural experience.
A cycling tour between land and sea to discover the secrets of the Opal Coast
This 7-day cycling tour invites you to explore the Opal Coast in all its diversity, from maritime heritage to unspoiled nature and charming villages. It’s a truly immersive loop through marshes, headlands, and coastal villages, taking you to explore the towns and ports of Dunkirk, Saint-Omer, Boulogne, Wissant, and Calais.
The bike ride starting in Dunkirk sets the tone: wild dunes, endless beaches, and a historic port atmosphere. The route takes you along various canals to Saint-Omer, a true inland gem with its historic alleyways and the UNESCO-listed Marais Audomarois, which you can explore by traditional boat through a maze of canals and floating gardens.
You leave Saint-Omer and now cycle through the Caps et Marais d’Opale Regional Nature Park. On small country roads, you pass through villages typical of the Hauts-de-France region and discover various castles along the way that bear witness to the rich history of the Boulonnais region. You arrive in Boulogne-sur-Mer, a quintessential seaside city. Spend the late afternoon exploring Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium, as well as the bustling harbor and the fortified old town. History buffs will marvel at the Count’s Castle overlooking the city.
Your cycling trip continues northward along the famous Opal Coast. The region has a rich history, notably featuring numerous remnants of the two world wars: forts, blockhouses, artillery batteries, and military cemeteries. The landscapes are varied, alternating between dunes and long beaches near the seaside resort of Wimereux, renowned for its Anglo-Norman-style villas and its boardwalk, which is perfect for a stroll. As you cycle toward Wissant, the route takes you to the famous Cap Gris-Nez, offering a spectacular view. You then stop in Wissant, nestled in the heart of a bay with its understated charm, wild beach, and authentic atmosphere, this village embodies the soul of the Opal Coast.
From Wissant, you need to put your legs to work to reach the Cap Blanc-Nez lookout point. The reward is well worth the effort: its white chalk cliffs offer an exceptional panoramic view of the sea, at the border between the English Channel and the North Sea. On a clear day, the view extends all the way to the English cliffs of Dover. Head slightly inland to avoid busy roads and rejoin the coastline at the seaside resort of Sangate, a great place to stop before continuing on to Calais.
Leave the city of lace and fashion behind to return to Dunkirk. Your route takes you to the Platier d’Oye Nature Reserve, one of Europe’s premier birdwatching sites. Enter the Pays des Wateringues in Maritime Flanders. As you continue on your way, a stop in Gravelines is a must. This town, fortified by Vauban and boasting magnificently preserved ramparts, is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and take a stroll. Pass through the villages of Bourbourg and Loon-Plage before reaching the famous privateer town of Jean Bart. Dunkirk is home to a must-see maritime heritage, notably its Port Museum and the three-masted ship Duchesse-Anne. As you stroll through Dunkirk, be sure to check out its many belfries, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Itinerary
Leisure From DUNKIRK to SAINT-OMER 55km 190m 
You leave Dunkirk to venture into the heart of Maritime Flanders. The route first follows canals through the polders. The horizon is vast, the landscape perfectly flat, and the atmosphere peaceful. As you approach Watten, the landscape changes. You begin a short but noticeable climb to the top of the hill. The Watten Abbey Tower stands guard there, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding plain. Shortly after, you ride alongside the Lac Bleu nature reserve. The descent quickly takes you into the Audomarois Marshes. You now cycle between vegetable plots and waterways. In Clairmarais, the route passes in front of the Abbey brewery. The route ends along the Neuffossé Canal. There, you pass the imposing Fontinettes boat lift before entering Saint-Omer via safe greenways.
From SAINT-OMER to BOULOGNE-SUR-MER 65km 550m
Hop on your bike and leave the banks of the Audomarois Marshes’ canals behind to venture deeper into increasingly rolling countryside. The route first follows quiet country roads before reaching Tournehem-sur-la-Hem. You pass through this village nestled in the Hem Valley. The road then climbs more steeply toward the forested ridges. On these plateaus, enjoy unobstructed views of the meadows and groves typical of the Haut-Boulonnais region. Ride alongside the grounds of the Château de Colembert, whose massive silhouette stands amid vast moats filled with water. The route continues over undulating terrain to the outskirts of Le Wast. There, you discover the park and gardens of the Château de Conteval, nestled in a wooded valley. The descent begins gradually toward the sea, signaling your imminent arrival at the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer.
From BOULOGNE-SUR-MER to WISSANT 24km 279m
Starting from Boulogne-sur-Mer, the route follows the Vélomaritime north along the Opal Coast. After passing the old fortified town and its historic ramparts, the ride quickly reaches the seaside. In Wimereux, a Belle Époque seaside resort, the seafront promenade showcases colorful villas and open views of the Channel. Continuing north, the landscape opens up around Saint-Jean Bay before reaching Ambleteuse, where the Vauban fort, classified as a historic monument, stands directly on the shoreline. The route then enters the protected natural area of the Deux-Caps, where cliffs and heathland form a striking, untamed setting. Quiet country roads and dedicated cycle paths lead to Wissant, a peaceful coastal village known for its wide beach and relaxed atmosphere.
From WISSANT to CALAIS 30km 260m
The Opal Coast never ceases to amaze you. For this cycling stage along the Vélomaritime, leave Wissant and its bay behind and head toward Cap Blanc-Nez, which promises yet another remarkable landscape. Your journey continues, taking you all the way to Calais, a port city also world-renowned as the “City of Lace.”
From CALAIS to DUNKIRK 55km 108m
Heading toward Dunkirk, you pass through the Platier d’Oye Nature Reserve, where numerous animal and plant species coexist, making this place truly unique. A little further north, take a short break in Gravelines to wander the narrow streets of this town fortified by Vauban. Finally, with its remarkable maritime heritage, the privateer city of Dunkirk offers you a warm welcome.
Dunkirk
Your cycling trip ends after breakfast. Take some time to explore this former privateer town and stroll toward the Port du Bassin du Commerce or along the beach at Malo-les-Bains.
Have a safe trip home!
They travelled with us
Practical information
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Starting from 1080€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices Accommodation example
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Starting from 1155€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices Accommodation example
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request
Contact us
Price includes
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a Double room
- 6 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 7/7
- Access to our exclusive travel application to follow your route, inform you about places of interest, restaurants, facilitate your assistance in case of emergency, find all your travel documents and our practical advice.
- Application fee
- Taxes
- The trip itineraries available on the following supports:
- Loan of a Bicycle GPS uploaded with full itinerary of the trip
- Topo maps
- Cycling practical guide including restaurant recommendations for lunch & dinner
- Day 1 : Welcome briefing by telephone with our team on the day of your arrival.
Price does not include
- Bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks, visits & other personal expenses
“Handcrafted” trips created and tested just for you:
- Routes selected by the Abicyclette Voyages team for their tourist and cycling appeal, fully mapped out, and away from traffic
- Accommodations chosen for the quality of their hospitality, atmosphere, services, and cuisine
- Great flexibility in planning that adapts to your needs and preferences: you can depart on the date of your choice! We check accommodation availability to ensure your trip goes ahead.
Local support:
- A phone call on the first day of your trip from an ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES guide explaining your travel documents
- 7-day-a-week support from the ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES team
- A luggage transfer service that respects your rest time (pickup starting at 10 a.m., delivery before 4 p.m.)
Modern and efficient route tracking:
- A GPS device provided so you can follow the itinerary without ever having to search for directions (bike mount included) A travel roadbook containing all useful addresses, route maps, and tourist information
And also:
- High-end bike rentals for true comfort and riding pleasure, and the reliability needed for a long cycling trip
- The option to purchase cancellation and comprehensive insurance to cover you in case of problems or unforeseen events
And with the guided package (for groups upon request), our team will accompany you throughout your trip:
- Guidance on the bike by a local, state-certified cycling instructor who is a professional in cycling travel
- Full board (unless otherwise requested)
- A varied picnic buffet featuring fresh, local products
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Trekking BikeAluminium frame Supplied equipment per bike
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Trekking E-bikeAluminium luggage rack Supplied equipment per bike
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Getting here
Departure city : DUNKERQUE
Coming by car
- at 3h15 from PARIS
- at 8h from BORDEAUX
- at 7h from LYON
Parking*
- Parking Jean Bart – DUNKERQUE
Coming by train
- Dunkerque train station - 2h15 from Paris
Coming by plane
- Lille airport
Train, Taxi, and Bus
Arrival city : DUNKERQUE
Coming by car
- at 3h15 from PARIS
- at 8h from BORDEAUX
- at 7h from LYON
Coming by train
- Dunkerque train station - 2h15 from Paris
Coming by plane
- Lille airport
Train, Taxi, and Bus
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags (1 carrier bag supplied with bike rental)
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
- Electrical plug adapter (compliant with local standards)
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/en/general-terms-and-conditions/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
| Cancellation period | Fees |
| From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
|
| Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 45% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Between 6 and 3 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
Custom made trips
You want a custom made cycling tour, or you’ve spotted one of our trips and would like to adapt it ? Tell us a bit about your project and we’ll help you prepare a trip that suits you best.
Starting from 1080€
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Dunkirk
Arrival in Dunkirk.
Orientation by phone with us
On receipt of your travel documents (and bikes if you have opted for rental), we take the time to talk to you over the phone to explain all the important points and answer any questions you may have.