Road trip in Northern France: best routes and travel tips
Northern France is a land of striking contrasts, where chalk cliffs give way to Flemish bell towers and dense Ardennes forests. If you’re looking for a journey that combines freedom, nature and heritage, travelling by motorhome is the perfect solution.
With Evasia, explore Northern France at your own pace in a fully equipped motorhome, stopping wherever the road inspires you.
Road trip in Northern France: what you need to know
- Discover the Opal Coast, the Bay of Somme, the Flemish Hills and the Meuse Valley
- Plan 10 - 12 days for a full loop, or 3 days per area
- Travel between May and September for mild weather and long daylight hours
Which routes should you take on a Northern France road trip?
The Opal Coast: dramatic cliffs and sea views
A must for lovers of coastal scenery, this route follows the Channel coastline and delivers breathtaking views at every turn.
Route: Calais to Berck-sur-Mer via the D940
Highlights: Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, with stunning views across to England on clear days. Stop in Boulogne-sur-Mer to visit Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium
Unique experience: Land sailing on the wide beaches of Hardelot or Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
Local food: Welsh rarebit à la nordiste (melted cheddar, beer and ham)
Recommended time: 3 - 4 days
The Bay of Somme: a wild natural sanctuary
Ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, this is Northern France at its most unspoilt.
Route: Circular drive around Saint-Valery-sur-Somme and Le Crotoy
Must-sees: Pointe du Hourdel and the Marquenterre Nature Reserve
Unique experience: Spotting France’s largest colony of harbour seals
Local food: Salt-marsh lamb, prized for its delicate flavour
Recommended time: 2 - 3 days
Flanders & the Audomarois: canals and heritage
Leave the coast behind to discover the quieter, authentic heart of the region.
Route: Saint-Omer to Cassel in the Flemish Hills
Must-sees: The Audomarois Marshlands and Cassel’s historic centre
Unique experience: A traditional boat ride (bacôve) through inhabited marshes
Local food: Flemish carbonnade (slow-cooked beef in beer with gingerbread)
Recommended time: 2 - 3 days
The Avesnois: the “Little Switzerland of the North”
Peaceful and green, the Avesnois is ideal for travellers seeking calm, nature and local produce.
Route: Maubeuge to Maroilles through the regional natural park
Must-sees: Val Joly Lake and the MusVerre museum in Sars-Poteries
Unique experience: Visiting an artisan cheesemaker to learn how Maroilles is made
Local food: Flamiche au Maroilles, served hot and golden
Recommended time: 2 days
The Meuse Valley (Ardennes): heading east
Bordering Belgium, this rugged region invites slow travel and contemplation.
Route: Charleville-Mézières to Givet, following the Meuse River
Must-sees: Place Ducale and the fortress of Sedan
Unique experience: Cycling the Trans-Ardennes Greenway from your motorhome base
Local food: Ardennes bacon salad, hearty and full of flavour
Recommended time: 3 days
Our top tips for a motorhome road trip in Northern France
Travelling through Northern France by motorhome requires a little planning, but rewards you with flexibility and unforgettable moments far from traditional hotel stays.
Why choose Northern France for your next road trip?
Few regions offer such geographical diversity over short distances. One day you wake up overlooking the Channel, the next you’re dining in a forested valley in the Ardennes.
Northern France is also known for its warm welcome and rich heritage, from UNESCO-listed belfries to historic citadels, all easily accessible by motorhome.
When is the best time to go?
The ideal period runs from May to September. Spring light enhances the Opal Coast cliffs, while summer brings cooler temperatures in the Avesnois forests.
October is also beautiful for autumn colours in the Ardennes valleys. Just pack warm layers for evenings in the motorhome.
How long should you spend in each area?
To truly enjoy the experience, allow 3 to 4 days per main region.
The Opal Coast and Bay of Somme deserve extra time for walking and nature, while Flanders and the Audomarois are perfect for a long weekend.
A full Northern France loop from an Evasia agency takes 12 - 15 days.
Which roads offer the best scenery?
Avoid motorways where possible and choose scenic back roads instead.
- The D940 is the iconic coastal road of the north
- The Meuse Valley roads reveal dramatic river bends and wooded hills
- Small country lanes in the Flemish Hills offer panoramic 360° views
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FAQ: everything you need to know for a Northern France road trip
Where can you park overnight?
Northern France offers many municipal motorhome areas and campsites. For a more authentic experience, consider the France Passion network, which allows free overnight stays with local farmers and artisans.
Is driving easy along the coast?
Yes. Major roads like the D940 are well suited to motorhomes. Take care in historic town centres where streets can be narrow, and watch for height restrictions (often 2 metres) in coastal car parks.
What equipment is essential?
Given the changeable weather, efficient heating is essential (included in all our vehicles). Bicycles are also highly recommended: the flat terrain of Flanders and Ardennes greenways are perfect for cycling.
Do you need to book campsites in advance?
In July and August, booking ahead is advised on the Opal Coast and in the Bay of Somme. Inland areas such as the Ardennes and Avesnois offer more flexibility.
Can you travel with pets?
Absolutely. Motorhomes are ideal for pets, and the Ardennes forests and wide northern beaches make excellent playgrounds. Just check pet acceptance when selecting your Evasia vehicle.
