Canal de la Haute-Colme walks

Immortalised by the film "Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis", the small town of Bergues is much more than just a film set. Bergues is a small fortified town: its ramparts, over 5 km long, date back to medieval times or were built according to Vauban's plans. Bergues also stands out for its remarkable monuments, such as its belfry, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, and the remains of Saint-Winoc Abbey.

An easy route in the heart of the city of Vauban and Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis.

As part of the Parcours du Cœur 2026, the CCAS in Bierne offers a 5 km walking route. Starting from the Bierne Multi-Activity Hall, you will take the Route des Sept Planètes and walk alongside the Colme, following the towpath. You will return to the starting point via the Voie Douce.

Thirty-seventh stage from the Jura to Hauts-de-France, via the Francigena. This flat stage follows the waterways as you explore Maritime Flanders and the network of waterways that criss-cross the landscape. You walk alongside the Canaux de la Haute Colme and the Canal de Bourbourg before reaching the outskirts of Dunkirk. After passing through Saint-Pol-sur-Mer, you discover the city of Dunkirk. France’s third-largest port, here you don’t need to have your sea legs to set off and discover the history of the Iceland fishermen, walk in the footsteps of the famous privateer Jean Bart, or simply stroll around the Place du Mynck, through the marinas or along the Malo-les-Bains seafront.

This beautiful route allows you to discover a varied coastline with vast sandy beaches, pebble beaches and a long stretch of cliffs between Calais and Boulogne. It also offers short detours away from the coast into dune nature reserves.This multi-day hike will appeal not only to lovers of remarkable natural sites, but also to enthusiasts of architectural heritage and birdwatchers (during migration periods).