An upscale resort town on the Atlantic coast of France, Le Touquet beckons with water sports, sandy beaches, golfing, horseback riding and sailing adventures. Since its heyday in the 1920s, the city has been famous for nightlife and casinos.

Things to do

Retaining its exclusive ambience and small-village charm, Le Touquet is lined with boutiques, indie shops and colourful sidewalk cafes. Stop by Le Touquet Museum to discover a priceless collection of paintings by Etaples artists from the late-1800s. Drive through town to spot exquisite turreted villas in the Norman style spreading beneath avenues of pines.

Head down to the beach to swim, walk the dunes and sip cocktails at trendy waterfront bars. Rent a beach hut and take breaks for seafront golfing at La Mer links course. Rent a sailboat or go on outdoor excursions, such as kayaking, canoeing or catamaran lessons from the Base Nautique Nord.

Cycle paths criss-cross the city, forests and countryside, offering an exhilarating ride to the Pointe du Touquet headland for seal spotting. You can also join guided cycle tours, walking treks or themed horse-drawn carriage trips. Adventurous travellers can venture to the Le Feuille de chene trail for a rewarding 10-kilometre hike.

Entertain the kids with an afternoon at Aqualud, a water park on the shoreline. Enjoy water slides and rides, such as the Twister and Black Hole, then have tea on the terrace overlooking the park.

Getting around

Electric bus services, taxis and bicycle rentals are available in Le Touquet. You can rent a car in the city or at Le Touquet Airport, about three kilometres from the city centre.