Montreuil-sur-Mer _ Vue Rue © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Benoit Bremer

Visit Montreuil-sur-Mer

The harmony of nature and architecture between the upper and lower town

Oozing both old-fashioned and bucolic charm, Montreuil-sur-Mer promises a wonderful escape to the country, close to the popular beaches of the Opal Coast’s seaside resorts. Come wander along the walls of the Citadel’s medieval ramparts, reworked by French military engineer Vauban, and enjoy the fantastic view of the river Canche and the streets lined with 18th-century hotels. If you happen to see several references to Victor Hugo, it’s because the town was where he found inspiration for the first part of Les Misérables.

Getting there

Northern France _ Montreuil-sur-Mer © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Benoît Bremer

In the words of Victor Hugo…

Montreuil-sur-Mer would better be named Montreuil-sur-plaine. Because the town is seated high, there is an admirable view of the hills and prairies from the ramparts

Victor Hugo - Letter to Adèle

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4 experiences to whet your appetite

Montreuil-sur-Mer _ Remparts © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Yannick Cadart

Vallée de la Canche, come re-energise

Montreuil-sur-Mer’s ramparts provide the perfect viewpoint from which to admire the local heritage and nature. Shaped by the valleys of the Canche, Course and Authie, the town is the ultimate place to recharge your batteries. Spend a weekend exploring the many green walking routes to top up on fresh air, relax and reconnect with nature. Departing from the Citadel, a signposted walk takes you along the river Canche: it’s accessible for all the family and a great way to discover another side of the village.

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La Madelaine-sous-Montreuil _ Alexandre Gauthier chef du restaurant La Grenouillère © Anne-Sophie Flament

A gastronomic savoir-vivre rooted in the town’s culture

Montreuil-sur-Mer has the French art de vivre down to a T. The gourmet town is both welcoming and festive, making it a sweet destination for any budding epicureans. Great restaurants, colourful markets and numerous food outlets offer a plethora of ways to get a true taste of local life. The “Dix verres” club, the fellowship of the “Tête de Veau”, the “Vingt jeunes” club… all ardently preserve this tradition that is part of the town’s DNA. In Montreuil-sur-Mer, you’ll quickly understand that everyone is happier when at a restaurant.

Gourmet discoveries

Montreuil-sur-Mer _ Les Misérables _ Spectacle Son et Lumière © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Benoît Guilleux

A spectacle in tribute to Victor Hugo

Every summer, 500 volunteers don the clothes of their ancestors and characters from the novel Les Misérables for a sound and light show that blends fiction with reality. An emotional story told in the mysterious setting of the Citadel.

Montreuil-sur-Mer _ Citadelle © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Benoît Bremer

Citadel, deeply inspiring!

Nestled on a spur overlooking the Vallée de la Canche, the Citadel and its ramparts are evidence of the town’s military past and offer a great walk with immersive views of the inspirational landscape. If that’s not enough beauty, go check out the works on display at the Musée Jacques Rodière. Or if you want more interaction, why not join one of the guided tours or fun workshops? They’re a fantastic way to take the family on a fascinating journey through history. But the surprises don’t end there! The Citadel also serves as a sanctuary for bats, which has resulted in it becoming a listed building and being classed as a Natura 2000 area.