Hauts-de-France, a region filled with history and natural beauty, is often overlooked for its more famous attractions. However, tucked away from the bustling tourist sites lies a wealth of lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered. From enchanting castles hidden in sleepy villages to tranquil gardens and poignant memorials off the beaten track, this collection showcases the hidden gems that offer a deeper and more intimate experience of Hauts-de-France's rich cultural tapestry.
Pierrefonds, France
A stunning medieval castle restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century.
Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont, France
A unique bird sanctuary nestled in the Baie de Somme.
Séricourt, France
An award-winning garden offering an enchanting floral experience.
Doullens, France
A historical church featuring unique acoustic architecture.
Le Cateau-Cambrésis, France
A vibrant museum showcasing the works of Henri Matisse in his birthplace.
Éperlecques, France
One of the largest bunkers built by the Nazis during World War II.
Les Rues-des-Vignes, France
A serene abbey known for its remarkable architecture and annual flower show.
Guise, France
A visionary social housing complex built in the 19th century by Jean-Baptiste André Godin.
Olhain, France
A picturesque medieval castle set amidst the lush landscapes of Pas-de-Calais.
Argoules, France
An impressive Cistercian abbey with beautiful gardens near the Authie River.
Mont-Saint-Éloi, France
The ruins of an ancient abbey that offer panoramic views of the Artois countryside.
Zuydcoote, France
Historic WWII battery remains, touching a part of Dunkirk's dramatic evacuation story.
Escalles, France
Dramatic white cliffs offering spectacular views across the strait toward England.
Argoules, France
Botanical gardens surrounding the Abbaye de Valloires, featuring over 5,000 species.
Amiens, France
Ancient floating gardens reachable only by flat-bottomed boats.
Armentières, France
An outdoor recreational area where you can relax by the lakeside or engage in sports.
Seclin, France
19th-century fortification now serving as a museum about WWI and WWII.
Marck, France
A little-known and remote lighthouse, active until the early 20th century.
Neuville-sous-Montreuil, France
Evocative ruins of a once-majestic Carthusian monastery in a peaceful and spiritual setting.
Landrethun-le-Nord, France
Former underground V2 headquarters built by the German army during WWII.
Thiepval, France
A monument dedicated to the Northern Irish soldiers who fell in World War I.
Clairmarais, France
A captivating nature reserve with hiking trails and abundant birdlife.
Ambleteuse, France
A historic fort that served to defend the coast against invasions across various centuries.
Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, France
A memorial site and the largest French military necropolis from World War I.
Braine, France
A magnificent pilgrimage chapel containing a precious relic: the Holy Blood.
Rue, France
Gothic chapel noted for its remarkable 16th-century stained glass windows.