Surrounded by a star-shaped moat designed by Vauban, Gravelines is a historic commune between Calais and Dunkirk. It is the only French town that can be completely sailed around, with its walled ramparts dotted with centuries-old guardhouses. Gravelines lies near the mouth of the River Aa, which connects Bourthes to the North Sea.
Things to do in Gravelines
Don’t miss the Gravelines Museum of Original Drawing and Printmaking, which is housed within the former powder magazine of a Spanish-built castle. Its exhibits explore the history and techniques of printmaking and showcases temporary exhibitions by local engravers. You can learn about bread and chocolate making in the old artillery bunker before picking up locally made gifts in the former guard house.
Gravelines makes a good base for visiting the Musee Maison de la Mer, which occupies a former lifeboat shelter in Grand-Fort-Philippe. It details the history of the Icelandic cod fishers who departed from the French coast, leaving their wives and children for months at a time. In addition to maritime artefacts and old photographs, there are models of fishing schooners on display.
For a day at the beach, head to Plage du Petit Fort Philippe, which overlooks the English Channel at the mouth of the River Aa. Its wide expanse of sand is particularly popular with families, with a supervised swimming area and easy access to eateries. In addition to beach soccer fields, there’s a water sports centre offering kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons.
Getting around Gravelines
Gravelines is around 30 minutes’ drive from both Calais and Dunkirk. Lille Airport is just over an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Gravelines railway station and buses travel throughout the commune, connecting most of its attractions.