What to do on the Opal Coast in winter: 5 activities not to miss

The Opal Coast is the jewel of the Hauts-de-France coastline. Summer temperatures may feel a long way off, but the low season is no reason to hibernate in this hugely popular tourist region. Here are 5 activities not to miss this winter!

What to do on the Opal Coast when it rains

Visit Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer

Welcome to the largest aquarium in Europe ! Dive into the world of different fish species and marine mammals, and explore the richness and beauty of the oceans. A wonderful outing for the whole family, taking you on a journey through countries all over the world. Sit down in front of the huge tank and take in nearly 40 species. Don't hesitate to book your ticket for extra peace of mind (annual closure from 9 to 23 January 2023).

Discover Dunkirk's harbour museum

Fancy sailing around the world, in the footsteps of the Dunkirk fishermen who once sailed every sea on the globe? Step aboard in the heart of La Citadelle, inside a historic 19th-century building. Discover the permanent exhibition covering 1,600 m² : the great Icelandic fishing expeditions, models, slideshows, a look at the various dockside trades, and more. Continue your visit aboard the deck of the three-master La Duchesse Anne or the lightship Sandettié, an original and fun experience for the whole family.

Wander through the crypt of the Notre-Dame basilica in Boulogne-sur-Mer

Fancy dodging the raindrops? Head underground, take shelter, and discover one of the largest crypts in France. Nearly 1,400 m² of galleries taking you back to the ancient origins of Boulogne and its basilica, with an exhibition of sacred artworks and a remarkable collection of stonework to admire.

Head out for some indoor shopping

La Cité Europe

At the gateway to the Channel Tunnel, discover the Coquelles shopping centre. In a bright, airy setting, you'll find over 120 shops, a dozen cinema screens, bowling lanes, and around fifteen restaurants to satisfy every appetite and every craving.

The Channel Outlet Store

Just around the corner from La Cité Europe, the Channel Outlet Store brings together more than 100 big brands at outlet prices all year round. Fashion, lingerie, sportswear, shoes, accessories, fine foods, and more. Plenty to delight bargain hunters!

Aushopping Boulogne Côte d’Opale shopping centre

Located in Saint-Martin-Boulogne, this shopping centre with around a hundred shops covers everything from fashion to home decor and equipment, plus plenty of restaurants for a break during your shopping trip!

Winter walks and hikes on the Opal Coast

Fancy some bracing sea air and facing the elements head-on? The Opal Coast won't disappoint.

The Two Capes site

Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez are the starting point for a huge number of walking trails. Grab your hat, gloves and scarf, and explore a hugely popular region even as the temperatures start to drop.

The Fartz trail

Set in unspoilt natural surroundings near Wissant, this 4.4 km walking route loops around the lake (a former flooded quarry), letting you spot the local flora and fauna.

The Slack loop

In Ambleteuse, right in the middle of the dunes, you'll find this well-known trail of around 5 km: an enjoyable walk for the whole family, through varied landscapes with superb viewpoints (the Baie des Oies, Fort d'Ambleteuse).

📌 Fancy putting together a great long weekend with no hassle? Check out our Opal Coast itinerary