Visiting Cap Blanc-Nez

Where does the name "Cap Blanc-Nez" come from?

It's true, let's be honest: the names given to the cliffs of the Grand Site des Deux-Caps tend to raise a smile. And yet they were carefully chosen! The name "Cap Blanc-Nez" is no happy accident. It actually refers to the colour of the rock. So while the cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez are chalky white, the tone of Cap Gris-Nez is, by contrast, darker.

Before the 16th century, Cap Blanc-Nez bore the name "Helder nes", from Old Flemish, which could be translated as "clear point". At that time, French became the reference language spoken along the Pas-de-Calais coast. That's how the white cliff came to be renamed "Cap Blanc-Nez".

How high is the top of Cap Blanc-Nez?

When visiting the Opal Coast, it's simply unthinkable not to stand atop the cliffs of the Deux-Caps. Oh yes! At 45 metres high, Cap Gris-Nez already offers a breathtaking view, but that's nothing compared with Cap Blanc-Nez, which rises to 135 metres.

Fancy admiring the grey cliffs from Cap Blanc-Nez? Nothing simpler! Just turn your head to the left.

Which town is Cap Blanc-Nez in?

The white cliffs, close to the town of Calais, actually lie within the village of Escalles. From the beach, it's not unusual to watch a procession of ships out on the water, heading straight for the English coast. For centuries, sailors have used Cap Blanc-Nez as a landmark when navigating.

The village of Escalles has always been a strategic geographical location. As far back as the Roman Empire, the French used it as a lookout for maritime activity. What's more, the alliance between France and Great Britain made good use of the advantage offered by Cap Blanc-Nez's geographical position (as with Cap Gris-Nez). At the top of the cliff stands a monument in memory of the Dover Patrol: more than 2,000 French and British soldiers defended the waters of the Strait of Dover during the First World War.

Want to grab a bite near Cap Blanc-Nez? No problem. As a well-known tourist spot, Cap Blanc-Nez attracts plenty of interest from local businesses. So you can easily enjoy a seafood platter less than a kilometre away.

Want to make the most of every moment of your exploration? Then organise a picnic at the foot of the white cliffs! We do, however, recommend great caution:

Finding somewhere to stay isn't difficult: there are gîtes, guesthouses and campsites in the area. However, if you're planning to explore the Opal Coast during school holidays, make sure to book ahead.

• find out the low-tide times beforehand;
• take the tidal coefficient into account if it isn't quite low tide;
• during spring tides, be extremely careful; the tide comes back in very quickly.

Where to park at Cap Blanc-Nez?

Want to explore Cap Blanc-Nez? Wondering where to park your car? Wimereux-Tourisme explains it all!

To access the Cap Blanc-Nez site, you can park your car:

• At the Cap Blanc-Nez car park. With 190 spaces, it has enough capacity outside peak season. During school holidays, however, it's difficult to find a space there.
• In the village of Escalles. Don't want to risk finding the car park already full? Then you can simply park your car in the village and walk to the Cap Blanc-Nez site. You'll find several car parks close to the beach.

What are the best walking trails?

Hiking enthusiast, welcome to the Opal Coast! This hallowed ground for walkers won't disappoint, with its many trails where you can admire the charm of protected flora and fauna. Grab a good pair of shoes. The adventure is only just beginning!

• The Cap Blanc-Nez viewpoints. Over the course of a kilometre, experience a magical moment! Perched atop Cap Blanc-Nez, be dazzled by the extraordinary view before you.
• The Cap loop. Got your hiking gear ready? Then set off on a 4.5 km walk through the heart of Blanc-Nez. To round off this invigorating walk in style, you can relax on the beach or climb up to the Dover Patrol monument. If you've got enough energy left, why not do both?
• The Escalles balconies. Devotees of outdoor sport will love this 7.5 km walk through the heart of Escalles and its cliffs.

Can you go cycling near Cap Blanc-Nez?

Feel like stretching your legs on a bike? Naturally, you'll find dedicated cycling routes not far from the Cap Blanc-Nez cliffs. Just for you, Wimereux-Tourisme has picked out its two favourite cycle routes:

Want to let off steam on trails reserved for mountain bikes? You'll certainly find some in the Grand Site des Deux Caps, notably starting from Wissant and Ambleteuse. However, these routes don't let you admire the chalk cliffs of Blanc-Nez.

Incredibly transporting, and unrivalled!

Gorgeous spot, feast for the eyes.

Worth doing in good weather (for the view of perfidious Albion) or in a storm (for the waves)

Beautiful walk from the beach into the countryside with sea views, 4 hours there and back.

• 30 km ride (road bikes). Follow the Vélomaritime, a well-known cycle network, for 30 km of exploration. A route is on offer to help you visit Cap Blanc-Nez and its surroundings. From Sangatte to Wimereux, get pedalling!
• 34 km ride (all types of bike). From Audinghen to Escalles, discover part of the Grand Site des Deux-Caps! To hire a bike, contact the Maison des Deux-Caps.

Can you fly over Cap Blanc-Nez?

Fancy a thrill? Good news: you can admire the chalky white cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez from the air! It's a chance to discover the Opal Coast in a whole new light, thanks to a unique perspective.

Depending on your level and what you're after, you have two options:

For more information, contact us via the contact form.

Whether you come to the Opal Coast alone, with friends or with family, you won't regret your stay. There's no doubt about it: it's a feast for the eyes! Its shoreline soothes while the richness of its biodiversity amazes. Isn't discovering Cap Blanc-Nez enough for you? Then leap back several centuries and start your visit to the château d'Hardelot! Planning to visit the Opal Coast for the first time? Know this: you'll never truly leave it behind… Rest assured, sooner or later you'll come back.

• The discovery flight. On this flight, you're fitted with a headset. Your guide and pilot tells you the secrets and mysteries surrounding the Opal Coast, particularly the cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez.
• The introductory flight. Take in the view of Cap Blanc-Nez from the skies and learn the basics of piloting alongside a professional.