La Dame Blanche des Clochers, along the River Oye

Getting to the start: from the town hall, turn left onto Rue de la Gare and continue straight on for approximately 1.5 km. The start is on this road after the level crossing and just before the River Oye. Before setting off on your walk, take a moment to step through the doorway of Offekerque Church and admire the frescoes by Lucien Jonas.

(S/E) Cross the D230 and follow the River Oye along the grassy path. At the Pont de Planche, you’ll come across a small lock called Vantelle. Carry on to the next bridge.

(1) Cross the Pont d’Arras, then turn right and walk along the River Oye on the other side. Then turn left onto Rue du Sauve-en-Temps.

(2) Turn right onto Rue des Bancs and follow it to the end.

(3) Continue straight on along the path (Rue des Banes) behind the Off pony club. In the plain, you’ll come across small blockhouses known as casemates, remnants of the Atlantic Wall.
Turn right and follow the D230 to return to the starting point (S/E).

More information at

Church of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus
The origins of this church date back to^{the 18th} century. Having been struck by two fires, it was rebuilt in the early^20th century using ‘blonde de sable’ brick, typical of the Aa Delta region. Built in the Modernist style, the church’s interior features Marquise marble. But the most remarkable feature remains the decoration adorning the chancel and the Stations of the Cross. It is a magnificent fresco created by the military painter Lucien Jonas, known for having illustrated banknotes.

The River Oye
The River Oye is 12 km long. Although called a river, it is in fact a watergang that originates in Marck and joins the River Aa at Gravelines. This waterway drains a region of watergangs. It was once a transport route used by flat-bottomed boats.

Vantelle
Vantelles are small sluices used to retain or release water. During periods of high water, the vantelle is opened. This allows the water to flow towards the river, preventing the flooding of cultivated land. During dry periods, the vantelle retains the water, enabling the irrigation of crops.

Remains of the Atlantic Wall: The casemates
During the Second World War, the Germans built casemates or blockhouses along the coastline to repel a possible Allied landing.

The White Mill or Lianne d’Offekerque
A former wheat mill for bread, it was built in 1833. The circular brick tower was restored between 1976 and 1978.

The Guemps Bridge Mill
Situated in Guemps (a neighbouring commune) and overlooking the coastal plain, discover the Guemps mill, which is still in working order. Carefully restored, it is recognisable by its pivoting roof, which overlooks the coastal plain. It bears witness to the intense agricultural activity and processing of produce in the ‘pays des wateringues’ during^{the 19th} century.