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Nortkerque walks
Marais Trail in Nortkerque
This path takes you to one of the four villages of the Pays du Brédenarde, Nortkerque, which can be translated as ‘church of the North’. Geologically, the former Pays du Brédenarde consists of a layer of clay resting on chalk that overlooks the coastal plain. It is a landscape of hedgerows, fruit trees and livestock farming. In the past, the Brédenarde also included the municipalities of Audruicq, Zutkerque and Polincove.
(4) Please note: the footbridge no longer exists; access is impossible until further notice (see practical information).
The Lady of the Wolves Trail
South of Audruicq, discover the Brédenarde, a landscape of hedgerows, fruit trees and wooded countryside.Starting from Zutkerque or Polincove, take the ‘Dame aux Loups’ trail, named in honour of the Baronessde Draëck; you can admire her château, the first hills of Artois and follow the winding course of the Hem: the river of mills.
Around the Meulestroom
A glimpse into Polincove’s history, exploring its ancient water-related heritage. This route is designed as a walk punctuated by information panels about these iconic sites in our town: do take the time to read them. Ideal for families.
Around Hennuin
This path, where land and water merge, is a walking trail that takes you alongside the watergangs (drainage structures designed to drain low-lying marshes and wetlands) and allows you to observe, with your family, the animal and plant species native to wetland habitats.
Circular route through the land of the wateringues
Here in Hennuin, you are at the heart of the Aa Delta – in the land of the wateringues, to be precise.
A five-stage interpretive trail is on offer to help you understand the importance of water management in this land reclaimed from the sea.
Around Muncq-Nieurlet
This trail takes you through a wooded landscape at the edge of the Artois hills, interspersed with canals and watergangs. The varied relief offers a unique panorama, a superb walk with a breathtaking view.
The Bois d'Elloo
During this route, walkers will pass through the Tournehem National Forest, which covers 988 hectares. They will see old windmills and the Hem valley.This is a signposted trail maintained by the Pays de Saint-Omer Urban Community.
The Saint-Louis Chapel from Tournehem-sur-la-Hem
A lovely walk through woods and hedged farmland to the pretty Chapelle Saint-Louis. It's a signposted trail run by the Communauté d'Agglomération du Pays de Saint-Omer.
La Dame Blanche des Clochers, along the River Oye
Just a few kilometres from the coast, this walking trail, which runs partly alongside the River Oye, is ideal for families. It invites you to explore a countryside still dominated by mills and traditional farmhouses, bearing witness
to the intensity of agricultural life in these lands criss-crossed by numerous watercourses known as ‘wartergangs’.
The Ghost of the Aa Trail in Ruminghen
Stroll along the hedgerows surrounding the orchards, discover the Chinese cemetery and the typical farms built of yellow or red brick or stone, a reminder that we are indeed at the confluence of Flanders and Artois. Then, let yourself be haunted by the ghost of the Aa, which lurks along the waterways…
The Ansérienne Trail
This trail takes you across the coastal plain, which stretches as far as the eye can see, and allows you to explore, within the dune system, a preserved natural area: the Platier d’Oye National Nature Reserve.
Chicory mills and drying houses around the River Oye
A very long time ago, the sea covered this area at high tide, but the ingenuity of the Benedictine monks inthe 10th century led to the construction of a network of drainage channels: the watergangs. This area, with its light, sandy soil, is ideal for growing chicory.
Large buildings made of yellow or red brick were once used to dry chicory roots. The people made the most of this gift from Mother Nature by building mills.
The Platier d'Oye Observatory
The trails are well-marked. All through the year, they're accessible, and this walk allows you to discover our beautiful northern beaches. Itinerary to be adapted, some areas may be off-limits, see notices .
In the footsteps of Vauban in Gravelines
This is a beautiful walk that highlights all the attractions of a small fortified town crossed by the River Aa, with a beautiful seafront and well-maintained green spaces ideal for walking. You will quickly forget that Gravelines is best known for its nuclear power station.
From Moringhem to Quelmes
A pleasant route, with the chance to enjoy a nice break at the lovely café in Quelmes.
Route amended in August 2026 to take Dominoe’s comments into account. I hope it will be better, but I haven’t been in the area for quite some time.
Circular route starting from Calais via Cap Blanc Nez
A superb circular mountain bike route starting from Calais, ideal for exploring the Opal Coast. The route alternates between urban sections, coastal paths and undulating trails with magnificent views of the sea and Cap Blanc-Nez. A few good climbs (464 m of elevation gain) provide a decent challenge without being too technical, making the route accessible to moderate-level mountain bikers. The section towards Wissant offers exceptional views. Varied terrain: fast-flowing sections, grassy paths and stony tracks. A well-balanced circular route, perfect for a lively ride lasting around 2 hours.