Overlooking Somme Bay, Le Crotoy is a charming town in the Hauts-de-France region. In the 11th century, it was the launching point for William the Conqueror’s ships during his conquest of England and later became a popular seaside resort that welcomed the likes of Victor Hugo and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
Things to do in Le Crotoy
In the heart of Le Crotoy is St. Peter's Church, which is fronted by a tower dating from the 13th century. Step inside to admire the ancient map of Le Crotoy that decorates the interior, together with a 15th-century altarpiece depicting the life of Saint Honoratus of Amiens. Also not to miss is the Church of Saint-Firmin, a medieval landmark topped by a bulbous belfry that houses stunning stained glass windows.
No visit to Le Crotoy is complete without a ride on the Somme Bay Railway, which runs between Le Crotoy and Cayeux-sur-Mer via Noyelles-sur-Mer and Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. Vintage steam locomotives pull Belle Epoque carriages along the scenic route, offering a taste of travel during the Victorian period and sweeping views of the surrounding marshes.
Keen birdwatchers shouldn’t miss a visit to Park Marquenterre, a tract of marshland, dunes and forest reserve north of Le Crotoy. Stretch your legs on one of the nature trails while keeping your eyes peeled for Eurasian spoonbills, little egrets, and barnacle geese, then relax with a coffee at the park cafe.
Getting around Le Crotoy
Le Crotoy is around an hour’s drive from Amiens and 2.5 hours from Paris and Charles de Gaulle Airport. Buses connect Le Crotoy to towns and villages across the region while the heritage Somme Bay Railway travels to Cayeux-sur-Mer. The centre of Le Crotoy is compact enough to explore on foot.