Things To Do
in Outreau
Outreau is a small coastal commune just east of Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France. It offers a quiet seaside vibe with easy access to beaches, marshlands, and the bustling port life of nearby Boulogne. The town blends maritime heritage with Flemish influences in its architecture, markets, and cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coast, day trips to Cap Gris-Nez, and a relaxed pace suitable for families and couples alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by strolling through the quaint streets of Outreau, where charming brick buildings and quaint local shops set the scene. Visit the local bakery to savor a fresh croissant and cup of coffee while soaking in the morning atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby historic church, which offers stunning architecture and a bit of local history.
After a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby museums that showcase the region's rich maritime history. Engage with knowledgeable curators and dive into the stories of Outreau's past, learning about its roots in fishing and shipping. Take a moment to enjoy the nearby park, where you can relax amid the lush greenery and perhaps enjoy a book.
As the sun sets, make your way to a nearby restaurant that specializes in traditional French cuisine for dinner. Enjoy local delicacies paired with fine wines as you reflect on the day's adventures. End the night with a leisurely walk back through the center, admiring the illuminated buildings and vibrant nightlife.
Head to the local beach early to secure a good spot on the sandy shore, where the sound of waves creates a serene backdrop. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the gentle waves, and playing beach games like frisbee or paddleball. Don't forget to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy with a view of the sea and the fresh morning breeze.
After a refreshing swim, grab lunch from a beachside café that serves fresh seafood and local specialties, allowing you to savor the coastal flavors. As the afternoon unfolds, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the beautiful coastline from the water. Alternatively, simply relax with a good book or engage in some beach volleyball with fellow visitors.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline to watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant hues. Head back to town for dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catch of the day while enjoying the ocean view. Top off the evening with a stroll along the promenade, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for an ice cream treat.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Three course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (one night) | $70-140 |
| 🛒Grocery for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚆One-way public transport | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty and easy access to nature
- Rich Flemish influenced cuisine and seafood
- Compact town with walkable center
- Good base for exploring Côte d Opale
- Limited nightlife options in Outreau
- Some services concentrated in Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Touristy in peak season
- Parking can be challenging near the harbor
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la plage ?" - Where is the beach?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L addition, s il vous plait" - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Outreau
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, timber framed houses, and sunlight through shutters make charming portraits.
Fishing boats, cranes, and reflective water create dramatic morning silhouettes.
Modern glass facade with the harbor and sea as a backdrop for contemporary photographs.
Cliffside trails with sweeping sea views and dramatic skies for wide angle shots.
Food in Outreau
Outreau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh mussels steamed in white wine and shallots, served with a side of crispy fries.
Must-Try!
Toasted bread topped with a creamy cheese sauce and herbs, a regional favorite.
Chilled Flemish meat terrine in jelly, often served with pickles and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market near the port offering seafood, cheeses, bread, and local products.
Seasonal stalls around the port offering grilled fish, shrimp skewers, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite Bonjour or Bonsoir; greet shopkeepers when entering.
Keep hands on the table; meals typically start after orders are placed; say please and thank you.
Arrive on time for reservations; be patient with slower service during busy times.
Safety
Tipping in Outreau
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10 percent is appreciated for good service.
Credit cards widely accepted; cash is useful in markets; contactless payments common; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming countryside. Bring light layers and rain gear for frequent showers.
Warm and sunny, ideal for beach days and coastal hikes. Expect busier towns and longer ferry lines.
Cooling temperatures and harvest festivals. Great light for photography and fewer crowds.
Cool to cold, occasional storms along the coast. Cozy restaurants and quieter streets.
Outreau at Night
Hiking in Outreau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic cliffs with sea views and accessible trails.
Scenic coastal hikes with panoramic vantage points over the Channel.
Long distance coastal path linking multiple towns with scenic beaches and cliffs.
Airports
How to reach Outreau by plane.
Small regional airport with limited service, useful for regional travel.
Compact airport serving seasonal and charter flights near Le Touquet.
Major regional airport near Lille with international connections.
Belgian airport about an hour south of the coast with broader European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children visit year round for beaches and parks.
Traditional occupations around Boulogne harbour.
Residents who commute to the UK or other parts of France for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local clubs and matches; community leagues and school sports.
Extensive coastal roads and countryside routes preferred by locals and visitors.
Coastal kayaking along the channels and harbor areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Outreau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Expect vegetarian options such as vegetable plates, salads, and cheese based dishes; ask for no meat stock or fish sauce.
Vegan options may be limited in some spots; seek salads, vegetable dishes, and bread with olive oil; communicate dietary needs clearly.