Guide to Le Touquet Paris-Plage
The Story of the Chic Resort
Le Touquet Paris-Plage has an intriguing history that dates back to the 1830s, when two French entrepreneurs acquired a vast tract of land south of the River Canche estuary. Initially intended for agriculture, the project failed, leading to the planting of various trees like pipe, elm, alder, and poplar. This transformation attracted sports enthusiasts keen on hunting, shooting, and fishing. One notable visitor, the owner of Le Figaro, renamed the quaint town Paris-Plage to honor the Parisians who frequented it for seaside holidays. By 1882, the first two cottages were constructed, marking the inception of the flourishing resort.
In the early 20th century, John Whitley and Allen Stoneham, two Englishmen, recognized the immense potential for holidaying Brits and contributed to its growth. As a result, architect-designed villas began to pop up in the woodlands and town center. Officially incorporated on March 28, 1912, as a separate town, Le Touquet Paris-Plage became a fashionable resort, renowned for attracting royalty, film stars, businessmen, and politicians in the 1920s.
Today, Le Touquet Paris-Plage continues to impress with its superb amenities and year-round entertainment, making it a highly popular destination.
A Few Facts
Tourist Office
Le Palais de l’Europe Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 06 72 00
Website
How to Get There
By Car
For those traveling by car, the best route is to take a ferry from the UK. From Calais or Boulogne, you will take the A16 to Etaples. Clear signage will guide you to Le Touquet, approximately 45 minutes from Calais and 30 minutes from Boulogne.
By Train
Regular train services run from Calais, Boulogne, and Paris to Etaples Station. Once you arrive, you can take a bus or taxi for the 3.2-kilometer (2-mile) journey into Le Touquet.
By Air
Between April and October, Lyddair operates scheduled flights from Lydd Airport in southeast Kent. There are additional services during July and August, with a flight time of around 20 minutes.
Where to Stay
For comfortable accommodation, consider the grand Westminster Hotel or opt for a more modest choice like the Windsor Hotel located in the center of town. Each offers unique experiences suited to different budgets and preferences.
Where to Eat
Le Pavillon
Hotel Westminster
5 Ave. du Verger
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 05 48 48
Under the culinary expertise of William Elliott, a French chef with an English name, Le Pavillon is a delightful establishment. Here, patrons can savor dishes like shellfish in verveine juice or turbot with wasabi and rhubarb. Dining in the garden is an excellent option in pleasant weather.
Les Cimaises
Located within the hotel, this restaurant features a 1930s ambiance and offers a more casual menu.
Flavio
1 Ave. du Verger
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 05 10 22
Flavio is another local institution featuring two dining options: Le Restaurant for exceptional fish dishes and Le Bistro for hearty, simple suppers.
Cote Sud
187 Bd Docteur Jules-Poujet
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 05 41 24
With picturesque sea views, Cote Sud offers dishes ranging from duck foie gras to beef fillet with morels, making it a favorite among locals.
Restaurant le Jardin
Pl. de l’Hermitage
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 05 16 34
Relax in this traditional restaurant with lovely garden views, specializing in a variety of fresh fish dishes.
Le Richochet
49 rue de Paris
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 06 41
This family-run locale offers an inviting atmosphere with a seasonal menu influenced by Asian cuisine.
Perard
67 rue de Metz
Tel.: 00 33 (0)3 21 34 44 72
Renowned for its seafood, Perard offers a famous fish soup available at both their restaurant and shop.
Attractions and Activities in Le Touquet
Le Touquet provides a wide array of sporting activities. Additionally, visitors interested in culture can explore the Le Touquet Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of paintings from the Etaples group of artists.
