The upscale seaside town of Le Touquet in northern France makes for an ideal day-trip, with its coastal setting and array of attractions providing plenty of options for occupying your time.
Home to a wide, sandy beach, charming 1920s architecture, buzzing nightlife scene and world-class gold courses, Le Touquet has long been among the region’s favourite destinations for well-heeled travellers seeking a sophisticated seaside escape. And for those only here for a layover or a flying visit, we’ve created an action-packed guide on how you might want to spend 24 hours in the town.
Morning
Start your day by walking along the long stretch of the beautiful sandy beach of Le Touquet which is one of the best beaches in the area. Backed by dunes and a promenade, this extensive shorelines is perfect for taking an early morning walk as the tide comes in. You’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of both sea and sky, along with the buildings built during the Belle Époque period, before moving inland through the chic green streets that have helped made Le Touquet famous.
Head towards the centre of Le Touquet to visit Marché Couvert (Rue Jean Monne) covered market. Built in the 1920s, the market is packed full of regional cheeses, fish and seafood, delicacies such as charcuterie, pastries and other items. Don’t forget to spend some time walking around the rest of the area where there are many independent boutiques, cafés and artisan food shops that make for ideal gift and souvenir hunting.
Choose Les Canailles restaurant (73 Rue de Paris) for lunch – one of the top restaurants of Le Touquet offering innovative menus of the season. The intimate dining room and warm and welcoming service make it a great spot for a long, leisurely lunch before continuing your explorations.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon discovering yet another side of Le Touquet by exploring its serene pine forests and dunes. The town has some great walking and cycling routes that take you through its forests and past numerous beautiful villas, as well as along roads built in the unique Anglo-Norman architectural style.
Alternatively, pay a visit to the estuary of Bay of Canche which is a protected natural reserve that attracts an array of birds thanks to the presence of salt marshes, dunes, and other coastal terrain. The estuary provides several more hiking routes that deliver beautiful views and are also much quieter compared to the bustling beaches of Le Touquet.
Evening
When evening begins, head back to the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful sunset disappearing over the English Channel. The large beach and promenade are arguably at their most attractive during the twilight hours, and the surrounding cafes and bars will be filling up at this time with residents and visitors enjoying an apéritif before dinner.
To conclude your dining experience for the day, make a reservation at Le Paris (88 Rue de Metz). Considered by many to be one of the best restaurants in town, Le Paris provides exquisite French food in elegant surroundings. Seasonal dishes and an impressive wine list help ensure you finish your time in this enchanting town in the finest of style.
Where to Stay
When it comes to places to stay, Le Touquet offers plenty of accommodation to suit a wide range of budgets and tastes. Among the town’s best-known addresses is Le Grand Hôtel (4 Boulevard de la Canche), a historic and beautifully renovated property overlooking the Bay of Canche. Set in a peaceful location on the edge of town, it’s a brisk 10-minute walk from the town centre, sandy beach and seafront promenade. The hotel itself is packed with first-class amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, an indulgent spa, a stylish bar, and two on-site restaurants.
Travellers looking for a more no-frills base might consider the B&B Hotel (460 Avenue de l’Europe, Cucq). Situated a short drive from the town centre and beach, this modern three-star hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with air conditioning and complimentary on-site parking. While it lacks the luxury facilities and character of some of the town’s more upmarket hotels such as our recommendation above, it’s still a fine choice for visitors seeking a good-value place to stay. Breakfast is available each morning, and there’s also a bar for a relaxed evening drink.