Facing the Baie de Somme, Saint-Valery is a top tourist attraction in Picardy just 30km from Camping des Roses. Before becoming the lovely little village that thousands of visitors flock to every year, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme had a long and exciting history. William the Conqueror planned his naval expedition here before conquering England. Joan of Arc was held here for a few days before being imprisoned and put on trial in Rouen. Victor Hugo wrote Oceano Nox here. Now it's your turn to explore this magical medieval town during your camping holidays in the Baie de Somme!
A historical village in the heart of Picardie Maritime
Saint-Valery is a pretty medieval town, fishing port and marina with a vibrant history and architectural heritage. A stroll down its cobbled lanes is a trip back in time. The Guillaume gate (11th century) to the west and Nevers gate (16th century) to the east are both listed as Monuments Historiques. A little further lies the Harold Tower where the King of England’s envoy was held prisoner in 1053. Another historical gem is the 13th century Gothic-style Saint-Martin Church with its checkerboard pebble walls and twin naves.
Along the way, campers should squeeze in a quick stop at the "Jardins de la Baie" housing the Herbarium, an enclosed medieval garden sitting at the top of the old town home to a multitude of ornamental, aromatic and medicinal medieval plants. Next head for the Abbey, one of the oldest in Picardy, and at the foot of Marins Chapel you have unique views of the Baie de Somme from the top of Cap Hornu.
The lower part of town used to be a lively fishing port but now you can watch yachts drop anchor and stroll along the banks lined with 19th century shipowners’ villas. Campers looking for a feast for the eyes should visit the sailor’s area - Le Courtgain – with its colourful little huts that were once home to fishermen. If you’re not in a rush, step into the Picarvie Museum and experience 19th century Picardy village life and age-old trades. Yet another chance to travel back in time!
Set sail around the Baie de Somme from Saint-Valery!
Treat yourself to a boat ride during your camping break in Picardy! From Saint-Valery Port, hop on board the Baliseur Somme II (listed as a Monument Historique in 2000) or Commandant Charcot III to see the Baie de Somme as you’ve never seen it before. On the agenda: a tour of the bay, Cap Hornu, Hourdel and the famous Saint-Valery-sur-Somme seals!
Did you know?
Saint-Valery marina is the biggest on the Picardy coast. It has 250 mooring rings and is very popular among wealthy visitors (Dutch and English come top) which has earned it the nickname the "Saint-Tropez of the North".
