Visiting Cap Gris-Nez

Why "Cap Gris-Nez"?

When people hear the name of this cliff for the first time, it often brings a smile. So why was it given this name? As a reminder, the Grand Site des Deux-Caps is made up of:

Historically, "Cap Gris-Nez" is the French translation of the Old Flemish name "Grisenesse", which literally means "Grey Cape". Don't be fooled!

The names of the Deux-Caps cliffs weren't chosen at random. They actually relate to the colour of each rock. The cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez are made of chalk, hence the name "Blanc-Nez" (white nose). Sandstone, on the other hand, a silica-based rock, gives the cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez their greyish tone.

What makes the Cap Gris-Nez site special?

Looking to escape your everyday city life? Visiting Cap Gris-Nez can only satisfy that urge. The landscape is made up of:

A keen hiker? Someone who loves nature in its rawest, unadorned form? Then you'll no doubt fall under the spell of Cap Gris-Nez. Classified as a protected area of ecological, wildlife and plant interest, Cap Gris-Nez is a refuge for numerous species, notably birds and amphibians. What's more, during flowering season, the grasslands bordering the cliffs put on a colourful show!

• three beaches, including plage de la Sirène, a clever mix of fine sand and rocks, and two shingle beaches called Cran Poulet and Cran aux Œufs;

How high is Cap Gris-Nez?

Fancy reaching the top of Cap Gris-Nez? Its cliffs, standing 50 metres high, offer an unobstructed view over the English coast, roughly 30 kilometres away. You'll also spot the chalky white cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez.

There are numerous trails that let you discover Cap Gris-Nez and its 8 coves, whose wild beauty has been preserved. From the various viewpoints, you might just be lucky enough to spot the local seals taking a dip!

Where is Cap Gris-Nez located?

Cap Gris-Nez lies on the land of the village of Audinghen, in the Pas-de-Calais. Over the course of history, this territory has been destroyed on numerous occasions. Audinghen has indeed paid the price for its geographical proximity to Great Britain. Let's not forget that several wars pitted our two countries against each other.

What's more, you'll find remnants of the Second World War. Yes, really: you can walk through a genuine blockhouse, now turned into a war museum! There are others too, scattered across the Grand Site des Deux-Caps. In Audresselles, one has even been converted into a holiday home. In fact, these structures are often used as film or documentary sets.

You can also admire the Cap Gris-Nez lighthouse. Rebuilt in 1957 after being destroyed by the Germans in 1944, it's now a listed historic monument and delights history buffs and lovers of beautiful scenery alike. Our tip? Capture the view of the lighthouse at sunset!

Visiting the Opal Coast for the first time? Know that life is good in Audinghen. The village, its farmers, its stretches of sand and its gastronomic quality will win you over. More of an art lover? Audinghen is a painter's paradise. Artists there tirelessly capture the beauty of the coastal landscapes.

Where to park at Cap Gris-Nez?

Want to park your car near Cap Gris-Nez? No problem: a free car park is available for tourists. From this spot, your visit is made easier by plenty of signposting about the site and the trails on offer.

Please note, parking is only permitted during the day, from 8am to 8pm.

Less than a kilometre away, you'll find a campsite, hotels, gîtes and several restaurants, including La Sirène, the starting point for many walks.

How to choose your walks at Cap Gris-Nez

Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez welcome more than a million visitors every year. Not bad, is it? What's more, our four-legged friends (on a lead, of course) are welcome too. Although it's not allowed, it's not unusual to see them off the lead. Be careful: some trails aren't without risk, as the cliff edge is just a few metres away.

Fancy a walk at Cap Gris-Nez? On the side of the grey cliffs, hikers and strollers alike will find plenty to enjoy. There's a wide variety of trails to discover. To make the most of your stay on the Opal Coast, choose your walks and hikes according to:

• the facet of Cap Gris-Nez you'd like to discover (historical, ecological, wildlife, plant life, etc.).

Where to walk at Cap Gris-Nez?

Coming to the Opal Coast without going for a walk would mean missing out on splendid landscapes, and a complete change of scenery. That's why Wimereux-Tourisme is keen to share its handpicked selection of walking trails with you!

Want to go on a guided hike? Discover a specific facet of the Grand Site des Deux-Caps? Head to the Maison du Site des Deux-Caps for guidance!

Fancy a walk at Cap Gris-Nez? Every year, the village of Audinghen welcomes countless tourists who fall for its irresistible charm! Throughout your stay, raw natural landscapes will unfold before your eyes. What a wonderful way to escape your daily routine! Round off your stay with some lovely discoveries: cultural, natural, historical, culinary (you won't be able to resist the Wissant cheese!). Thinking of spending a weekend, or better still, a week on the Opal Coast? Don't forget to visit the château d'Hardelot and Nausicaá.

Fantastic, we feel so small against the forces of nature on this morning when the wind drives powerful waves onto this wild coast

Guaranteed change of scenery. You can park nearby and then walk a long way

• The Cap Gris-Nez viewpoints. Over 1 km, discover the various panoramas of Cap Gris-Nez. Wonder guaranteed! This trail is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
• Nordic walking (or classic walking) routes. Head to the Maison du Site des Deux-Caps! Choose the route that matches your level: beginner walker (5.2 km), regular walker (6.5 km) and endurance walker (9 km). This hike was designed to explore Cap Gris-Nez and its surroundings.
• The cove trail (sentier des crans). This 13.5 km hike is reserved for lovers of wild nature. Make sure you're not afraid of heights, as the view is striking, particularly at the Cran du Noirda! Watch out for narrow paths. In busy periods, crossing points can be tricky. The starting point for your hike is at the Cap Gris-Nez site.
• The Cap Gris-Nez trail. Seasoned hikers will love the Cap Gris-Nez footpath. Bring sturdy shoes and enough water. On the agenda: 27.2 kilometres of walking! The route starts from one of the 8 communes of the Grand Site des Deux-Caps: Audresselles, a traditional fishing village.