Attractions and Places To See around Fontaine-L'Étalon - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Fontaine-L'Étalon include historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. This small farming village in the Pas-de-Calais department offers a tranquil escape within the "landscapes of the Authie valley." The surrounding area provides a diverse range of attractions, including forests, abbeys, and gardens. Visitors can explore both local points of interest and broader regional highlights.
Best attractions and places to see around Fontaine-L'Étalon
- The most popular attractions is Auxi - Bernâtre Greenway, a…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Town of Hesdin
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Auxi - Bernâtre Greenway
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Surrounded by trees, very rolling and slight slopes :)
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Canche Valley: Montreuil- Hesdin
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Hesdin & Belfort Town Hall
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Notre-Dame Church
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Tips from the Community
Town of Hesdin: pretty town of church and historic building with a beautiful mix of architecture; with cafes, restaurants and shops in the city center for a nice break.
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The ornate town hall, built of brick and stone, dates from the 16th century. It was once the palace of Mary of Hungary, the sister of Charles V. The central loggia depicts Philip IV of Spain and Isabella of Bourbon, surrounded by the Seven Virtues. The loggia (bay window) dates from the time when the palace was converted into a town hall (1629); The roof was added in 1702. The mayor can address the people from here. The belfry is on the UNESCO world heritage list
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The Vallée de la Canche is a beautiful region in northern France, located between the towns of Montreuil and Hesdin. The area is characterized by its green landscape of valleys, forests and meadows, crossed by seven small rivers: the Authie, the Canche, the Ternoise, the Créquoise, the Planquette, the Bras de Brosne and the Lys. Cycling is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful area. The 7 valleys have a total of 500 km of hiking trails and dozens of cycling routes. Along the way you can enjoy relaxing views of villages, old farms and the ancient backdrop of hedges and hedges. On the edge of the Canche lies the town of Hesdin, whose current center dates back to the 16th century. The belfry of Hesdin is an eye-catcher, as is the 17th-century town hall, several historic houses and the Gothic church. Other beautiful places in Vallée de la Canche include the villages of Aubin-Saint-Vaast, Boubers-sur-Canche and Conchy-sur-Canche. For the best view of the valley, however, you should go to the picturesque fortified town of Montreuil-sur-Mer, where you can walk over the ramparts. After a day of cycling you can enjoy a romantic sleeping address in the green and taste fresh products from the country (including cheese, honey, snails, currants) in one of the many local restaurants and estaminets. There are also plenty of accommodations available in Montreuil for cyclists looking for a comfortable place to stay. In short, cycling in Vallée de la Canche between Montreuil and Hesdin is a great way to explore this beautiful area and enjoy all it has to offer.
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The triumphal arch of the beautiful church portal is typical of the late Renaissance. The round arch with carved cassettes is flanked by fluted Corinthian columns. The hall church interior was embellished with Baroque furniture in the 18th century. In the back of the nave a wreathed Assumption of Mary and a canopy with the dove of the Holy Spirit. At the back of the left nave is a beautiful altar with carved angels, fruits and flowers
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The ornate town hall, built of brick and stone, dates from the 16th century. It was once the palace of Mary of Hungary, the sister of Charles V. The central loggia depicts Philip IV of Spain and Isabella of Bourbon, surrounded by the Seven Virtues. The loggia (bay window) dates from the time when the palace was converted into a town hall (1629); The hood was added in 1702. The mayor can address the people from here. The belfry is on the Unesco world heritage list
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Not suitable for racing bikes.
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Portion of the Frévent - Abbeville greenway Surrounded by trees, very rolling and slight slopes :)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit within Fontaine-L'Étalon itself?
Within Fontaine-L'Étalon, you can explore the sixteenth-century Church of St. Fermin and the poignant Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery. The village also holds traces of an old chateau and an old mill, offering glimpses into its past.
What are some significant historical sites in the wider region around Fontaine-L'Étalon?
The region boasts several historical sites. You can visit the 18th-century Cistercian Valloires Abbey with its formal gardens, located about 20 km away. The small Picardy village of Saint-Riquier, 21 km distant, features an attractive Benedictine abbey church and a belfry. Additionally, the historic center of Montreuil-sur-Mer, a fortified town approximately 28 km away, is well worth exploring. Don't miss the Town of Hesdin, known for its historic buildings and the UNESCO-listed belfry.
What natural features can I explore near Fontaine-L'Étalon?
Fontaine-L'Étalon is nestled within the beautiful "Paysages du val d'Authie." For nature lovers, the Forêt d'Hesdin is about 11 km away, and the larger Forêt de Crécy is approximately 18 km distant, both offering opportunities for outdoor activities. A major natural highlight is the Baie de Somme, around 34 km away, known for its extensive natural habitats and the renowned Parc du Marquenterre bird sanctuary.
Are there any beautiful gardens to visit in the area?
Yes, the region is home to several exquisite gardens. The Jardin des Lianes is highly recommended and located just 2 km from Fontaine-L'Étalon. Other beautiful options include Les Jardins de Maizicourt (about 13 km away) and Les Jardins de Sericourt (approximately 18 km to the east).
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Fontaine-L'Étalon?
The area around Fontaine-L'Étalon is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the Auxi - Bernâtre Greenway, which is a portion of the Frévent - Abbeville greenway. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Fontaine-L'Étalon guide. There are also numerous running trails, with options like a 9.4 km moderate loop from Capelle-lès-Hesdin. Find more running routes in the Running Trails around Fontaine-L'Étalon guide.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/6085730" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Town of Hesdin</a> known for?
The Town of Hesdin is known for its beautiful mix of architecture, including a historic church and buildings. Its ornate town hall, dating from the 16th century, was once the palace of Mary of Hungary. The belfry of Hesdin is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city center offers cafes, restaurants, and shops for a pleasant break.
Are there any specific cycling routes recommended for exploring the area?
Yes, the Auxi - Bernâtre Greenway is a popular choice, offering a tree-lined path with gentle slopes, suitable for various bikes (though not racing bikes). The Canche Valley: Montreuil- Hesdin area also offers over 500 km of hiking and dozens of cycling routes, allowing you to enjoy views of villages, old farms, and the ancient backdrop of hedges. For more options, check the Cycling around Fontaine-L'Étalon guide.
What is unique about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/6029644" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Notre-Dame Church</a>?
The Notre-Dame Church is notable for its beautiful portal's triumphal arch, which is typical of the late Renaissance. The interior of the hall church was embellished with Baroque furniture in the 18th century, featuring a wreathed Assumption of Mary and a canopy with the dove of the Holy Spirit in the nave, and a beautiful altar with carved angels, fruits, and flowers in the left nave.
What kind of experience does staying in Fontaine-L'Étalon offer?
Staying in Fontaine-L'Étalon provides the experience of a tranquil, vibrant, working farm village. You can enjoy a gentle pace of life, observe free-roaming animals, and appreciate a strong sense of community. It also serves as a good base for exploring nearby towns like Hesdin and Auxi-le-Château, and the broader Pas-de-Calais and Somme departments.
Are there any specific recommendations for road cycling routes?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. For example, you could try the 'Town of Hesdin loop from Brévillers,' which is a moderate 58 km ride. Another option is the 'Beffroi de Doullens – Doullens Belfry loop from Le Ponchel,' a moderate 54 km route. More road cycling options can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Fontaine-L'Étalon guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Fontaine-L'Étalon?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse range of attractions, from historical landmarks and cultural sites to extensive natural features. The Auxi - Bernâtre Greenway is loved for its tree-lined, rolling paths, while the Town of Hesdin is praised for its historic charm and amenities. The community has shared over 11 photos and given more than 10 upvotes for these attractions, highlighting their appeal.
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