Hauts-de-France: this fortified town is one of the 100 Plus Beaux Détours, a must-see for history buffs.

In the Hauts-de-France region, a fortified town is the talk of the town. It has been selected as one of France’s 100 Most Beautiful Detours by the national press.

Why this city in the Hauts-de-France region is seducing once again

The Plus Beaux Détours network highlights towns with a living heritage. Here, the fortified town offers a clear, welcoming old town center. Travelers will find ramparts, monumental gates and lively squares. So everyone can combine history and strolling at a gentle pace.

This national label promotes destinations on a human scale. The selection rewards authenticity, quality of welcome and entertainment. The fortified town features cobbled streets and bastions. What’s more, the viewpoints offer soothing panoramas.

The tour of the ramparts provides a practical guide. You follow the old moats, then reach the citadel. The fortified town is told step by step, with clear landmarks. So half a day is enough for an initial immersion.

“In a fortified town, each door opens a page of history, but also a new encounter.

Living ramparts: itineraries and landmarks

Start at one of the historic gates to see the relief of the defences. Then walk around the bastions to observe the glacis. The fortified town reveals its sober, harmonious lines. In short, this itinerary is suitable for families and the curious alike.

The signposted circuits make it easy to visit, even on a short detour. You’ll alternate between nature, masonry and small cultural stops. The fortified town retains a reassuringly human scale. And the old town center is easily accessible on foot.

• Choose a historic gateway for orientation.
• Bring water and a windbreaker depending on the season.
• Adapt the loop over 45 to 90 minutes, depending on your pace.
• Locate lookouts for sunset photos.
• Check out market days for the local atmosphere.

Les Plus Beaux Détours: what the label changes

The selection of the 100 highlights a clear, easy-to-understand offering. It favors short but memorable visits. The fortified town benefits from structured itineraries and a warm welcome. What’s more, practical information often improves once the label has been awarded.

This setting benefits residents and visitors alike. Local shops gain in visibility, without the gadget fair. The walled city attracts a curious and respectful public. However, the spirit of the place remains the priority.

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Preparing for your visit

Arrive early to take advantage of the calm morning light. This way, the tour of the ramparts is cool and unhurried. The walled city gains in relief under a changing sky. A light raincoat can save the day.

Use soft shoes for cobblestones. And keep an eye on children near stairs or ditches. The ramparts are a living public space, not an amusement park. So, taking a break helps you savor the architecture.

History in stone, moments to experience

Fortifications tell the story of the dialogue between defense and landscape. Over the centuries, the fortified town has adjusted its walls and accesses. You can read these strata in the shape of the bastions and curtain walls. In this way, the past becomes legible, without heaviness or jargon.

Between two gates, the facades tell the story of life past and present. The fortified town is a mix of workshops, cafés and small exhibition halls. What’s more, local programming enlivens the squares in fine weather. As a result, a short detour can create a real souvenir.

At sunset, the stone still heats up a little. The fortified town offers soft hues for your photos. A final tour of the chemin de ronde calms the pace. Afterwards, everyone returns home with a desire to return.

The label acts as an honest compass for the traveler. The fortified town cited by the selection confirms its potential. You’ll get reliable pointers for planning a serene stopover. In short, the detour delivers what it promises without a commercial detour.

• walled city