Opal Coast Day Trip
The French Opal Coast is a popular destination for organised groups, offering a wide range of sightseeing opportunities and activities inspired by the region’s rich history and strong maritime heritage.
PLACES TO VISIT
Montreuil
A pretty medieval walled town with picturesque cobbled streets, 13th century citadel and superb views from the town’s ramparts. An ideal location to combine with your visit to the Chocolaterie in Beussent.
Boulogne sur Mer
The ancient historic town is France’s premier fishing port and the capital of the ’Cote d’Opale’. Situated about 25 minutes drive from Calais, Boulogne offers a blend of the old and the new.
Desvres Pottery
The lively market town of Desvres has been famous for centuries for the manufacture of decorated ceramics. For anyone interested in pottery and seeing skilled craftspeople at work, Desvres is well worth a visit!
Nausicaa
The Sea Life Centre in Boulogne is Europe’s largest complex devoted to the marine universThis is an educational visit with a difference where you will come face to face with more than 10,000 fish, terrifying sharks and sea lions.
Le Touquet
A popular seaside resort just over an hour’s drive from Calais. Fine sandy beach, a good shopping centre and the Aqualud waterland adventure park.
Agincourt
In 1415, on fields near the village of Azincourt, the English army, led by King Henry V, crushed the French army even though the English were outnumbered by at least three to one. Standing on this historic site of the battle, is the recently opened Medieval Centre.
Bagatelle Theme Park
Popular, fun environment set in attractive woods and hills with imaginative rides, including many ‘white knuckle’ rides and breathtaking experiences, a zoo and gentler rides for younger children.
Itinerary Example
1-Day Express French Immersion:
The Opal CoastGive your travellers an exciting taste of French culture and conversational language practice in a single day. Just a short hop across the Channel, this cost-effective day trip combines hands-on workshops with seaside culture - all with no accommodation costs.Channel Crossing & Artisanal French Bakery (MFL & Culinary Culture)MorningEarly
Morning:
Depart your organisation early by executive coach for a morning ferry or Eurotunnel crossing from Dover to Calais.Mid-Morning: Visit a traditional French boulangerie (bakery) near Calais. travellers take a hands-on workshop with a master baker, learning how croissants and baguettes are made while practicing their French vocabulary during a tasting.Language Practice, Market Town & Marine Life (MFL, Geography & Science)AfternoonLunch & Town Trail: Head to Boulogne-sur-Mer for a structured town trail and market challenge in the historic centre, encouraging travellers to order food and buy souvenirs in French.Early
Afternoon:
Tour Nausicaá Sea Centre—Europe’s largest aquarium—where travellers explore giant ocean habitats, sea life conservation, and marine ecology through interactive exhibits.Late Afternoon: Stop at a local chocolaterie or traditional sweet shop for a quick demonstration and tasting before heading back toward the port.Homeward Journey & Return to your organisationEveningEarly
Evening:
Arrive at the port of Calais for your evening channel crossing.Late Evening: Complete the coach journey back to your organisation, bringing home delicious French treats and renewed confidence in speaking French.