The town of Calais, France is known for a few things. For European travelers it is well known as a port city and occupies the narrowest point of the English Channel. Before the channel tunnel opened, most of the ferries to Britain left from here for the short 26-mile crossing. Calais has developed a reputation for being a place to purchase cheap wine and cigarettes. Many British come over for long weekends and booze runs.
Calais has so much more to offer that this. I had the opportunity to explore the town one weekend when our ferry crossing was delayed. Calais is full of points of interest as well as lovely shops and cafes to explore. Its size makes it perfect for travelers who don’t enjoy the large crowds and busy streets of France’s major cities.
The Burghers of Calais
The Burghers of Calais is a bronze statue created by Rodin. It is a dedication to the six Burghers who helped end the siege of Calais. King Edward the 3rd of England claimed the crown of France after king Charles the 4th of France died without an heir. Edward wanted to conquer Calais by force being it was an important port city at the time. The siege went on for nearly a year when the people of Calais wanted to surrender. Edward would only accept a surrender if six of the town’s wealthiest people came to the center of town, barefoot, with nooses around their neck and gave him entrance to the castle. Much to Edwards surprise, six of the wealthiest town’s people did just this. The gesture moved Queen Phillipene so much that she begged Edward not to harm the men and her wish was granted. The statue sits outside the cities town hall.
If you fancy a good climb then pay a visit to the Calais Lighthouse. Be prepared, it is 271 steps to the top. However, it is more that worth the upward journey when you see the spectacular views of Calais and the surrounding area. The entire port is visible on a clear day. Evidence of the Second World War is still present. There are excellent, English-speaking guides available as well to fill you in on the lighthouse’s history and importance to the city.
La Maison du Fromage et des Vins
If your French isn’t what it should be, this translates into “The House of Cheese and Wine.” Charles De Gaulle once said it was impossible to rule a nation with more than 200 types of cheese. If wine is France’s best product then cheese runs a close second. This shop is a great place to sample cheeses from all the different regions of the country. If your time is limited and you can’t do a major cheese tour of the France, this store offers a very suitable option.
Parc Richelieu
Once you’ve blown all your Euros on wine, chocolate, and cheese you might want a relaxing activity you can do for free. Take a stroll through the Parc Richelieu. The area isn’t huge but it is beautifully landscaped with ponds, plants, and an assortment of ducks. The park also holds the honor of being the final resting place of Emma Hamilton, Admiral Nelson’s mistress.
It’s hard to travel to this region of France and not think of the Second World War. France suffered greatly and this museum helps demonstrate the war from the eyes of the French. It is housed in an old German bunker that is left as it was back in 1944. It is packed full of artifacts from nearly all nationalities that were involved in the war. It’s the perfect activity for historians and war buffs.
