The Opal Coast by bike, along the Vélomaritime
- From 599 € / pers.
- 5 days / 4 nights
- From April to October
- Departures: any day
-
Daily distances: RELAX ℹ️ ➡️ Average of 30 to 40 km per day
➡️ About 2 to 3 hours of cycling per day – max. 4
➡️ A pace suitable for travelers who enjoy a relaxed rhythm, allowing plenty of breaks and discoveries along the way. -
Relief: MEDIUM ℹ️ ➡️ Average elevation gain: between +200 and +600 m / day.
➡️ Mostly gentle and accessible terrain, but some sections are hillier and may include a few steeper climbs. Gentle inclines, often on greenways, can also be longer. - Electric bikes available
- Luggage transfer included
Highliths :
- The diversity of landscapes: the cliffs of the Deux Caps, dunes, vast beaches, green valleys, and farmland hills.
- The rich heritage: Boulogne-sur-Mer and its upper town, Montreuil-sur-Mer and its ramparts, authentic coastal villages.
- Preserved nature: seabirds, seals of the Baie d’Authie, nature reserves, and peaceful marshes.
- Exceptional views over the English Channel, reaching all the way to the English coast.
- A route that follows the La Vélomaritime cycle route for the most part, but also includes a few nice detours to more unusual places.
Highliths :
- The variety of landscapes: cliffs of Two Capes, dunes, vast beaches, green valleys, and agricultural hills.
- The rich heritage: Boulogne-sur-Mer with its old town, Montreuil-sur-Mer and its ramparts, authentic coastal villages.
- Preserved nature: seabirds, seals in the Baie d’Authie, nature reserves, and peaceful marshes.
- Exceptional views over the English Channel, extending all the way to the English coast on clear days.
- A route that mostly follows the Vélomaritime cycle route, but also includes a few fun detours to more unusual spots.
From 599 € / pers.
- 5 days / 4 nights
- From April to October
- Departures: any day
-
Daily distances: RELAX ℹ️ ➡️ Average of 30 to 40 km per day
➡️ About 2 to 3 hours of cycling per day – max. 4
➡️ A pace suitable for travelers who enjoy a relaxed rhythm, allowing plenty of breaks and discoveries along the way. -
Relief: MEDIUM ℹ️ ➡️ Average elevation gain: between +200 and +600 m / day.
➡️ Mostly gentle and accessible terrain, but some sections are hillier and may include a few steeper climbs. Gentle inclines, often on greenways, can also be longer. - Electric bikes available
- Luggage transfer included
THE OPAL COAST
The Opal Coast… A land of contrasts where light, wind and tides compose a constantly changing scenery. Here, cliffs, dunes and estuaries follow one another without ever being the same, offering a coastline with a strong character. Long oriented towards the sea, this region has welcomed sailors, fishermen, lighthouse keepers and travellers seeking new horizons. A little regional nod: the name “Opal Coast” was chosen at the beginning of the 20th century to evoke the ever-changing shades of sky and sea, reminiscent of the reflections of a precious stone.
This territory, rich in history, has remained accessible and welcoming. Nearby villages have kept their authenticity, while the larger seaside resorts have developed without losing their maritime roots. Along the coastline, history is still visible in bunkers buried beneath the dunes, in former fishing ports, or in the silhouettes of lighthouses that punctuate the coast. It is a living landscape, shaped both by nature and human activity.
Today, coastal paths and cycle routes such as La Vélomaritime allow these landscapes to be explored at a gentle pace. Starting in the north, Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez immediately set the tone with their magnificent views over the English Channel. The rest of the route is a succession of long beaches ideal for swimming, rugged cliffs, rolling hills and small hamlets sheltered from the wind. Further south, lively ports with a nostalgic charm, family beaches and nature reserves where seals and other animals find refuge form a mosaic of places to discover at your own pace. Without trying to overdo it, the Opal Coast presents a varied and authentic ensemble, perfect for those wishing to combine nature, history and seaside escape.
YOUR ITINERARY
This route, with its delightfully salty air, takes you along the Opal Coast and into the rural heartlands of Pas-de-Calais, largely following La Vélomaritime, but also charming little backroads through the countryside. From Calais to Berck-sur-Mer, it offers a rich variety of landscapes: views of the English Channel, the cliffs of Two Capes, dunes, fine sandy beaches, and, on clear days, the rugged English coastline on the horizon.
Along the stages, you pass through fishing villages, explore the upper town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, follow the peaceful Course valley and climb to the fortified town of Montreuil-sur-Mer. Each day reveals a different side of the Calaisis, the Boulonnais and the Montreuillois, blending heritage and nature.
In high season, the many beaches along the way will delight those who love relaxing and swimming in the sea, in between pedalling.
Have a great trip!
DAY-BY-DAY PROGRAMME
Day 1: Arrival in Calais
Your journey begins in Calais, on the shores of the North Sea. You can admire the impressive Town Hall, the famous “Bourgeois of Calais” statues by Rodin, as well as the large theatre. The Lace and Fashion Museum, along with the lighthouse, that offers a panoramic view, are also worth a visit. Those with a sense of adventure can stroll along the beach, where you might catch sight of one of the town’s main attractions: the spectacular Calais Dragon.
Day 2: Calais – Audresselles
42 km | 
+270 m
You begin your Pas-de-Calais odyssey following the North Sea towards the iconic Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez. A short detour allows you to reach the tips of these headlands, where the views are breathtaking: panoramas stretch as far as the eye can see, and on clear days the chalk cliffs of the English coast are visible despite being over 30 km from the French shore.
The route then passes through the surrounding countryside before gently descending to the English Channel. The day ends peacefully on La Vélomaritime, part of EuroVelo 4, a major European cycling route stretching over 1,500 km from Dunkirk to Roscoff.
Day 3: Audresselles – Hardelot
38 km | +330 m
On this second stage, you continue to enjoy the coastline and pass through the villages of Ambleteuse and Wimereux, with their colourful façades and Belle Époque villas offering special charm. Then the road takes you to Boulogne-sur-Mer, France’s first fishing port, where the busy harbour contrasts beautifully with the tranquillity of the early route.
Prepare your legs for a climb up to the old town, perched over 60 metres above sea level. Here, the scenery changes completely: castle, cathedral, belfry, cobbled streets… the heritage is rich. You can even dismount to walk along the ramparts promenade, offering stunning views of the sea and the town rooftops.
You then descend back to the Channel to continue south, following La Vélomaritime. The day ends in Hardelot, where you can admire the castle, witness to more than nine centuries of history. If you have the opportunity, don't hesitate to explore its gates: its unique architecture and gardens make it a pleasant stop.
Day 4: Hardelot – Montreuil-sur-Mer
38 km | +310 m
The route leaves the coast to enter inland, following a mosaic of crossroads paths. You alternate between small country roads and rural paths through fields. The terrain becomes more undulating, inviting everyone to go at their own pace. Gradually, you reach the peaceful Course valley, a green haven where the route follows the clear ribbon of the small stream giving its name to the valley. Progressing further, you leave the Boulonnais and enter the Montreuillois, an agricultural heartland.
Your day ends in style in the picturesque village of Montreuil-sur-Mer, reached after a final climb to the fortified town.
Day 5: Montreuil-sur-Mer – Rang-du-Fliers🚆 Calais
31 km | +80 m
It’s already the last stage of your journey, but certainly not the least exciting! You leave Montreuil-sur-Mer and follow peaceful country roads gradually towards the coast.
After crossing the Balençon Marsh, a refuge for many species, your route heads to the Baie d’Authie. This vast estuary is recognised for its remarkable ecological richness. With some luck, you may even spot the seal colony resting on the sandbanks.
Approaching the end of the route, you enjoy the sea one last time along the beach from the promenade at Berck-sur-Mer. For a few final pedal strokes, you continue along La Vélomaritime before reaching Rang-du-Fliers station.
When you arrive at Rang-du-Fliers station at the end of the route, your luggage will be available at a drop-off point. The train back to Calais (included in the package) takes around 1 hour. You may optionally choose an extra night in Calais.
💡 If you have opted for hire bikes, your bikes will be collected when you exit the train in Calais.
💡 If you are travelling with your own bikes AND arrived by train in Calais, note that there is also a TER train that goes directly to Paris (via Amiens) from Rang (approx. 2h). If this option interests you, please let us know: we will then deduct the price of the return train to Calais.
ACCOMMODATION
We prioritise authentic, small-scale accommodation that inspires comfort, friendliness and well-being. Particular attention is also given to location: easily accessible by bike, and wherever possible close to amenities and points of interest.
AVAILABLE COMFORT LEVELS
2/3 ★ Hotels or equivalent B&Bs
Warm and comfortable accommodation, chosen for its welcoming atmosphere and location.
Photo provided as an example to illustrate the type of accommodation.
Always included:
- Breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Bike storage
- Restaurant(s) within walking distance
- Convenient location
BIKE CHOICE
Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike suited both to the route and to your own needs.
RENTAL BIKES
We offer high-quality trekking bikes and/or electric bikes, equipped with all essential accessories.
Trekking Bikes
Versatile bikes with at least 21 gears, a suspension seatpost and hydraulic disc brakes, ideal for tackling short hills with ease.
Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)
Bikes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, a suspension fork, 65Nm motor, and a minimum 500Wh battery. Expect at least 60 km of range in comfort.
Photos for information only. Bikes subject to availability.
Included accessories:
- Smartphone holder (1 per bike)
- Waterproof rear bag (1 per bike)
- Small handlebar bag (1 per bike)
- Lock
- Repair kit
- Helmet(s) (on request)
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE
Before departure, carefully check your bike’s condition: brakes, tyres, cogs, derailleur, chain…
You may be far from help if something goes wrong!
Which bikes are suitable?
- Trekking / Touring bikes
- Mountain bikes (MTB)
- Gravel bikes
- E-bikes with good range
- Road bikes
- City bikes
💡 Although over 90% of the route is asphalted, there are a few short sections on compact gravel or dirt. Avoid very narrow or slick tyres. MTB tyres are not necessary.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Our trips prioritise discovery and relaxation over effort.
Stage lengths are adjusted according to terrain, path type, and points of interest, so that each day remains balanced, enjoyable, and open to surprises.
This trip is not recommended for children under 12, as there are a few short stretches on departmental roads with light traffic.
STAGE LENGTH:
RELAX ℹ️
➡️ Average 30–40 km per day
➡️ Around 2–3 hours cycling per day – maximum 4
➡️ A pace suitable for travellers who prefer a relaxed rhythm, allowing plenty of stops and discoveries along the way.
TERRAIN:
MEDIUM ℹ️
➡️ Average elevation gain: +200 to +600 m/day
➡️ Mostly gentle and accessible terrain, though some sections are hillier with steeper climbs. Gentle climbs on greenways may also be longer.
💡 The Opal Coast alternates between sandy beaches and sometimes quite high cliffs, so a few hills are to be expected, although once on the plateau, it is relatively flat.
⚡ For maximum enjoyment of the route, even on small climbs, you may wish to choose an electric bike.
PATH TYPE:
The route alternates between quiet country roads and dedicated cycle paths or greenways. There are also a few short sections on dirt or compact gravel, but MTB tyres are not necessary. These paths present no technical difficulty. Over 90% of the route is asphalted.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
⏱️ DURATION
5 days and 4 nights, including arrival day. 4 days of cycling.
📅 POSSIBLE DEPARTURE DAYS
Every day from 6 April to 27 October 2026.
🗺️ ROUTE TYPE
Linear. A return train to the starting point is included.
📍 START AND FINISH POINT
Start of trip: Calais
End of trip: Calais
🏁 STAGES
| Stage | Route | Distance (km) | Ascent (m) | Descent (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calais - Audresselles | 42 | 270 | 270 |
| 2 | Audresselles – Hardelot | 38 | 330 | 320 |
| 3 | Hardelot – Montreuil-sur-mer | 38 | 310 | 280 |
| 4 | Montreuil-sur-mer – Rang-du-Fliers | 31 | 80 | 120 |
🌦️ BEST TIME TO GO
Weather is generally favourable from April to October, with good overall sunshine though showers are possible throughout the year.
Within this period, those who enjoy swimming and relaxing on the beach will naturally prefer summer. Thanks to the maritime influence, temperatures remain more comfortable than inland during heat waves.
🍽️ MEALS
Breakfasts are always included.
Lunches and dinners are at your own discretion.
During the day, you can eat at local restaurants (daily suggestions are provided in our roadbook) or have a picnic using supplies from local shops.
💡 Half-board is not available on this trip, but there will always be at least one restaurant within walking distance of your accommodation… unless your hotel already has one!
🧳 BAGGAGE TRANSPORT
Your luggage is transferred from one accommodation to the next, and you will find it at your accommodation at the end of the day. You only carry your day bag during the cycling stages. A pannier is provided with rental bikes.
💡 1 piece of luggage max. 20 kg per traveller
If you prefer to carry your luggage in side panniers, a discount is available.
🚩 ARRIVAL ON SITE
BY TRAIN
Calais is served by a TER train line.
Direct TER lines from:
💡 From most parts of France, as well as UK, Belgium or Switzerland, the easiest way is to take the TGV / Ouigo to Lille and then connect with a TER.
BY CAR
Several options are available in the city centre to park your car during your trip.
Paid parking:
- Indigo Centre commercial Coeur de Vie (719 spaces): 14 Rue du Temple
Free public parking:
- Place de Norvège (32 spaces)
- Esplanade Jacques Vendroux
- Quai de la Colonne Louis XVII
💡 During office hours, these car parks can be busy. Other free parking options exist, but sometimes parking is only allowed for 48 hours (even if no sign indicates this), or spaces may be used for events (market, fair, etc.) occasionally.
📱 TRIP APP
To make the most of your adventure, the trip app (access key provided) includes:
A digital roadbook with all necessary info:
- Practical travel information
- Tourist information
- Restaurant suggestions
- Places to buy supplies
- Swimming spots
- Cultural facts and anecdotes
- Bike repair shops
A complete navigation system:
- Custom GPS tracks between each accommodation
- Satellite navigation (works in airplane mode)
- Voice guidance
💡 Although the app is user-friendly, a short tutorial will be sent to you.
📞 INDEPENDENCE AND ASSISTANCE
You travel independently (unaccompanied), with telephone assistance available 7 days a week in case of issues.
🛡️ INSURANCE
To ensure reimbursement in case of trip cancellation or issues on-site, you can take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Cancellation) or assistance insurance (CAP Explorer Assistance). Learn more about insurance.
🎒 EQUIPMENT TO BRING
A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder, and waterproof rear pannier are basic equipment.
If you hire a bike, these are included (helmet only on request).
For extra comfort, we also recommend bringing the following specific accessories:
Rain overtrousers
Lightweight, waterproof, windproof and easy to put on; protects against rain, splashes and mud. Some models include gaiters covering shoes.
External battery (power bank)
Useful for charging your phone during lunch breaks: navigation uses a lot of battery, even in airplane mode.
Recommended unless your battery is very high capacity.
Cost: €10–20.
Cycling shorts or gel saddle cover
Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction on longer rides. Alternatively, use a padded saddle cover.
Water bottle
More practical and durable than disposable bottles. Some double-wall insulated bottles keep water cool for several hours.
Buff / neck warmer / hat
Outside of summer, mornings can be chilly, so you’ll be glad you brought them!
2026 PRICES
The price is based on a double room for 2 people. All prices are per person and subject to availability of the requested room type.| Formula | Low season | Mid season | High season |
|---|---|---|---|
| In double/twin room | 599 € | 649 € | 679 € |
| Single room supplement | + 240 € | + 270 € | + 270 € |
| Child discounts (* in the same room as 2 full-paying persons) |
0-3 yrs: - 70% | 4-11 yrs: - 40% | 12-17 yrs: - 30% | ||
| Group discount | 6 - 20 pers. : - 5% | 21+ pers. : - 0% | ||
| Extra nights (optional) | Low season | Mid season | High season | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calais | In double/twin room | 80 € | 80 € | 90 € |
| In single room | 130 € | 130 € | 150 € | |
💡 SEASONS
- Low season: 6/4 - 26/4 & 1/10 - 27/10
- Mid season: 27/4 - 30/6 & 1/9 - 30/9
- High season: 1/7 - 31/8
| BIKE RENTAL (equipment included) | |
|---|---|
| Electric bike | 175 € |
| Trekking bike | 150 € |
THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES
- Overnight stays in hotels or guesthouses
- Breakfast at each accommodation
- Transport of your luggage between accommodations
- Train ticket from Rang to Calais on Day 5
- GPS tracks of the route via our navigation app
- A digital roadbook (via the same app)
- A video introducing the trip and the app
- A map of the route
- 7-day-a-week telephone hotline
- Tourist taxes
- Booking fees
OPTIONS
- Rental bikes
- Single room supplement
- Extra night(s) in Calais
- Optional insurances: cancellation and/or assistance
NOT INCLUDED
- Travel between your home and Calais
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to tourist sites and other personal expenses
- Anything not listed under “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”
SPECIAL CASES
- If you carry your own luggage, a discount applies (see booking form). An extra pannier is provided if you hire a bike.
- Solo travellers: a logistical supplement is added to the single room supplement
REVIEWS
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