Stage Two: Towns Along the Route
LAUWIN-PLANQUE
Tucked away in the Hauts-de-France region, Lauwin-Planque is a peaceful village located just outside the historic city of Douai. Though small in size, this charming commune offers a quiet, authentic taste of rural northern France and serves as a pleasant base for exploring the surrounding area.
First-time visitors will be struck by the village’s calm atmosphere, friendly locals, and well-kept streets lined with traditional red-brick homes typical of the region. Lauwin-Planque is surrounded by countryside and gentle farmlands, making it a great destination for walkers and cyclists looking to enjoy fresh air and scenic paths.
Despite its modest profile, Lauwin-Planque is gaining attention as the starting point of Stage 2 of the 2025 Tour de France, bringing a unique energy and spotlight to the village. On race day, expect a festive buzz, with visitors, locals, and cycling fans gathering early to watch the peloton set off.
Nearby, the city of Douai offers a deeper dive into the region’s history. Don’t miss the Belfry of Douai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the Musée de la Chartreuse, set in a former monastery and housing fine art collections.
Whether you’re visiting for the Tour de France, exploring the local heritage, or simply enjoying a slower pace, Lauwin-Planque offers a warm welcome and a chance to experience the quieter, authentic side of northern France—just a short drive from the cultural treasures of Douai and beyond.
Tour start coincides with the Douai Geants festival
Stage 2 start
ARRAS
Arras, the capital of the Pas-de-Calais department, is a hidden gem for first-time visitors to northern France. Known for its Flemish-Baroque architecture, impressive squares, and rich history, the city offers a perfect mix of culture, charm, and warmth.
Begin your visit at the Grand Place and Place des Héros, two magnificent cobbled squares surrounded by ornate 17th- and 18th-century townhouses. These lively areas are home to cafes, markets, and festivals throughout the year. Towering above is the Arras Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Beneath the city lies a network of tunnels known as the Boves, originally medieval cellars and later used by soldiers in World War I. Guided tours take you through this hidden world, offering a powerful connection to Arras’s wartime past. Nearby, the Wellington Quarry museum offers a moving look at the lives of soldiers who prepared for the Battle of Arras in 1917.
Arras is also a city of culture, with the Musée des Beaux-Arts, located in a former abbey, featuring works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Parks, such as the Citadel Park and Jardin Minelle, offer peaceful green spaces for a relaxing break.
Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or simply the atmosphere of a friendly, walkable city, Arras is a rewarding destination with something to discover at every corner.
Wellington Quarry
Arras Belfry
MONTREUIL-SUR-MER
Perched above the Canche River valley in Pas-de-Calais, Montreuil-sur-Mer is a beautifully preserved medieval town that offers charm, history, and tranquility. Despite the name, it’s no longer by the sea—but its cobbled streets, ancient ramparts, and sweeping views make it a truly memorable stop for first-time visitors.
Begin your visit with a walk along the 13th-century city walls. These ramparts, nearly 3 km long, offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and are among the best preserved in France. Inside the walls, the town’s heart is filled with half-timbered houses, ivy-clad buildings, and peaceful squares.
One of the highlights is the Citadel, built on the ruins of a royal castle, which has played a role in French military history for centuries.
Nearby, the Church of Saint-Saulve showcases impressive Gothic architecture and tranquil interior spaces.
Montreuil-sur-Mer also has a strong literary connection. It famously inspired Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, and the town celebrates this with statues, plaques, and occasional performances during summer festivals.
Food lovers will be delighted by the town’s reputation as a gastronomic destination, with several excellent restaurants and local markets featuring regional products like cheese, cider, and game.
Small, walkable, and full of character, Montreuil-sur-Mer is perfect for a peaceful day trip or a quiet weekend escape. Whether you’re exploring its history, enjoying local cuisine, or just soaking in the atmosphere, this hilltop gem leaves a lasting impression.
Chartreuse de Neuville
Montreuil-sur-Mer
ETAPLES
Located on the estuary of the Canche River, just a short distance from Le Touquet, Étaples is a charming town with a rich maritime heritage and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Once a major fishing port, Étaples has retained its nautical character while developing into a peaceful destination full of local flavour.
Begin your visit at the Maréis Sea Fishing Discovery Centre, where interactive exhibits offer a fascinating look into the lives of local fishermen and the region’s marine biodiversity. It’s a great stop for families and anyone curious about the area’s coastal traditions.
Wander through the old port, where colourful fishing boats still bob in the water, and enjoy fresh seafood at a local brasserie—Étaples is especially known for its mussels, fish soup, and shellfish. The covered market is also worth a visit, offering local produce, cheeses, and specialties every week.
Étaples is home to the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, the largest of its kind in France. It’s a moving site that commemorates thousands of soldiers who were treated in field hospitals here during World War I.
For a relaxing walk, follow the scenic Canche River trails or head to the nearby nature reserve, which offers peaceful views and a chance to spot birds and other wildlife.
Whether you’re stopping through on the way to the Côte d’Opale or looking for a quieter alternative to busier resorts, Étaples offers authenticity, history, and a strong connection to the sea.
Etaples CWGC cemetery – largest in France
Etaples from the air
HARDELOT-NEUFCHATEL
A personal favourite. Nestled along the Opal Coast in the Pas-de-Calais region, Hardelot is a charming seaside town that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its long, sandy beaches and scenic surroundings, Hardelot offers a peaceful escape, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
Start your visit by taking a stroll along the wide, clean beach, where you can enjoy the sound of the waves, watch kite surfers, or simply soak up the coastal charm. The beach is ideal for both families and those seeking a quiet spot to unwind.
Hardelot is also home to the stunning Fort d’Hardelot, a 19th-century fortress set on a hilltop overlooking the town. The fort houses exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the region’s military history and breathtaking views over the coast.
For nature lovers, the Les Dunes de la Slack nature reserve offers picturesque walking and cycling paths, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the unspoiled landscape. The surrounding pine forests also offer shady spots for a peaceful retreat.
If you’re a golf enthusiast, Hardelot is famous for its two beautiful golf courses—Le Golf d’Hardelot, which is set in a spectacular location with views over the sea and dunes.
Whether you’re exploring its history, enjoying the natural beauty, or simply relaxing by the sea, Hardelot is a delightful destination on the Opal Coast.
Hardelot Plage
Shopping in Hardelot
BOULOGNE-SUR-MER
If you’re heading to Boulogne-sur-Mer in July for the finish of Stage 2 of the Tour de France, you’re in for a memorable experience. This historic seaside town offers a perfect mix of excitement, culture, and coastal charm.
Stage 2 promises a dramatic conclusion with steep climbs and a challenging uphill finish, so expect an energetic atmosphere as crowds line the streets to cheer on the cyclists. The finish line will be a great place to soak in the passion of the Tour and the beauty of the northern French coast.
The Château-Musée, a medieval fortress turned museum, offers art and archaeological collections, while the UNESCO-listed belfry provides panoramic views over the rooftops and sea.
Stroll along the beach promenade or enjoy fresh seafood in a local brasserie. Boulogne is France’s largest fishing port, so this is the place to try local specialties like mussels, oysters, or fish stew.
Whether you’re here for the cycling or the culture, Boulogne-sur-Mer promises an unforgettable experience by the sea, full of energy, heritage, and northern French charm.
While you’re here, take time to explore the town. Boulogne-sur-Mer is home to Nausicaá, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, with fascinating marine life from across the globe. The Old Town, perched on a hill, is a must-see with its cobbled streets, historic walls, and the impressive Basilica of Notre-Dame, which has a vast crypt and towering dome.
Boulogne harbour
Boulogne fish market